EgyptCitizenship by Investment Program

Why and How to Become an Egypt Citizen

Bank Deposit Investment Option:

Is it possible to take out a loan with the collateral being the bank deposit?

– Yes, it is possible, but only through a special arrangement with commercial banks.

Once the bank deposit hold period is complete, is it possible to receive the return in USD or in a currency other than the local currency?

– No, it will only be issued in the Egyptian local currency.

What about the currency exchange rate?

– The prevailing exchange rate will either be the rate at the time of the initiation of the deposit – or – the exchange rate at the time of the holding period completion. Whichever rate is lowest at the time of the deposit withdrawal, will be the rate used in the transaction.

What if the investor does not wish to continue with their bank deposit investment? Is there any sort of penalty?

– No, but if the investor has already obtained the Egyptian citizenship, they will be required to transition to the Donation Option, by making a non-refundable contribution of $250,000 USD, in order to maintain their Egyptian citizenship.

Real Estate Investment Option:

Is it possible to purchase a plot of land, or is it only property?

– Both are acceptable as long as its government owned.

Should the property be a completed project or is it acceptable to be under construction?

– Both options are acceptable, but it must be one of the government-owned projects. It can be a shop, factory, apartment, etc.

If the investor chooses to purchase a property, can it be paid in installments?

– In order to be eligible to apply, it is required that the minimum investment amount of $500,000 USD be paid in full. If the property’s price is over $500,000 USD, the applicant can pay the extra amount in installments.

Is there any specific location that the property should be located in?

– No, but the property must be located in a government-owned real estate project.

Is the sales contract sufficient evidence to prove full payment of the fund required?

– No, there must be also proof of a bank transfer, made from abroad.

Does the applicant have the right to sell the property?

– In order to obtain the citizenship, the property must be held for a period of 5 years. After the 5 years, the investor has the right to sell the property.

What if the investor wishes to sell their property/land before the 5 years are complete?

– If the investor has already obtained the Egyptian citizenship, they will be required to transition to the Donation Option, by making a non-refundable contribution of $250,000 USD, in order to maintain their Egyptian citizenship.

Company Investment Option:

Is it a must to establish a new company or it is possible to apply by funding an already established company with $400,000 USD?

– Both. The applicant has the choice to invest in a previously established company or to establish a new a company. The one requirement in both cases is that the applicant must make a minimum investment of $400,000 USD and to own at least 40% of the shares in the company.

Is it required to have an Egyptian partner in the company?

– No.

Can the funds be used in establishing the company or should it be deposited in the company’s bank account as disposable cash for 5 years?

– It should be deposited in the company’s bank account and can be used as funds for the company for a minimum of 5 years.

– If the company declares bankruptcy within those 5 years, the investor will be required to transition to the Donation Option, by making a non-refundable contribution of $250,000 USD, in order to maintain their Egyptian citizenship.

FAQs Related to the Main Applicant and his Family:

Can the Egyptian nationality obtained through investment be inherited?

– Yes, it can.

What if the main applicant has more than one spouse?

– Any official spouse of the main applicant can be included in the application, and they will obtain the Egyptian citizenship 2 years after the main applicant.

Are there any restricted countries, in which their citizens cannot apply for the Egyptian citizenship?

– Citizens from all countries can apply for the Egyptian CIP, however the government has the right to deny or reject any application at its sole discretion without disclosing the reasoning behind the rejection.

Can parents and/or siblings be included in the application?

– No to both.

If the son(s) of the main applicant obtain the citizenship, will they have to enlist in the Egyptian military?

– No.

Is there a maximum age for dependent children, to be included in the application?

– Yes, 21 years old and not married.