The Egyptian Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, launched in 2020, has been gaining traction among foreign investors and expatriates seeking alternative citizenship options.
This initiative was designed to attract foreign capital, stimulate economic growth, and bolster the country’s financial reserves by offering a legal pathway to Egyptian citizenship for qualified investors.
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In this post, we’ll explore how the Egypt citizenship by investment program works, its official guidelines, costs, requirements, and the benefits of getting citizenship in Egypt.
How Can I Get Citizenship in Egypt?
Egypt offers several legal pathways for acquiring citizenship:
- Investment: Through the Egyptian Citizenship by Investment program, eligible investors can obtain nationality by contributing to the country’s economy via approved financial routes.
- Residency: Long-term residents who have legally lived in Egypt for a decade or more may apply for citizenship through naturalization, although the process is slower and more restrictive.
- Descent: Individuals with at least one Egyptian parent are entitled to citizenship by descent, regardless of place of birth.
- Marriage: Foreign women married to Egyptian citizens may qualify for citizenship after two years of marriage, subject to legal conditions.
For expats and global investors seeking faster, more strategic access to Egyptian citizenship, the investment pathway remains the most efficient and business-friendly route, offering both security and new opportunities in a growing regional hub.
Egypt Citizenship by Investment Program: A Second Passport Option
The Egyptian citizenship by investment program was officially introduced in 2019 under Law No. 190, with implementation commencing in 2020.
As of May 2024, the program has received approximately 1,000 applications, with about half of the applicants having paid the mandatory $10,000 administration fee.
Notably, around 50% of those who paid the fee have already been granted Egyptian citizenship.
Administered by the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) within the Prime Minister’s Office, the program provides four distinct investment options.
- Non-Refundable Contribution: A direct donation of $250,000 to the state’s public treasury.
- Real Estate Investment: A minimum investment of $300,000 in government-approved real estate projects. Properties can be sold after five years.
- Business Investment: An investment of $350,000 in a new or existing Egyptian business, coupled with a $100,000 donation to the state treasury.
- Bank Deposit: A deposit of $500,000 at the Central Bank of Egypt, refundable in local currency after three years without interest.
All investments must be made in US dollars and transferred from abroad.
Applicants are required to pay a $10,000 non-refundable administrative fee and must undergo thorough security and background checks.
The citizenship by investment scheme is particularly appealing to investors seeking a strategic foothold in the Middle East and North Africa region.
It offers benefits such as visa-free travel to select countries, access to Egypt’s growing economy, and the ability to pass citizenship to family members.
Can foreigners buy real estate in Egypt through CBI?
Egypt Citizenship by Investment program offers foreign nationals the opportunity to acquire Egyptian citizenship through real estate investment.
This pathway allows investors to purchase property within Egypt, contributing to the nation’s economic growth while securing a second passport.
The real estate option is particularly attractive due to its tangible nature and potential for capital appreciation.
Minimum Investment Requirements
To qualify for citizenship via real estate investment, applicants must:
- Invest a minimum of $300,000 USD in Egyptian real estate.
- Hold the property for at least five years before selling or transferring ownership.
- Pay a non-refundable government processing fee of $10,000 USD, regardless of the investment option chosen.
Funds must be transferred from abroad in foreign currency, emphasizing the program’s goal of attracting foreign capital.
Eligible Types of Properties
The program offers flexibility in property selection, allowing investments in:
- Residential properties: Apartments, villas, or houses.
- Commercial properties: Office spaces, retail outlets, or mixed-use developments.
- Off-plan properties: Units under construction from reputable developers.
- Multiple units: Investors can combine multiple properties to meet the minimum investment threshold.
It’s important to note that properties located in the Sinai Peninsula are generally excluded from the program due to national security considerations.
Egypt Citizenship by Investment Official Website
If you’re interested in applying for the Egyptian citizenship by investment, it’s essential to also check official government sources for the most accurate and updated information.
The official platform for Egypt CBI program is managed by the Citizenship by Investment Unit under the Office of the Prime Minister.
The Egyptian government’s official portal for inquiries and application procedures can be accessed through the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) website.
GAFI oversees much of the investment-related processes, while the final approval for citizenship is granted by the Prime Minister of Egypt upon recommendation from the Citizenship by Investment Unit.
Applicants must submit required documents, investment proofs, and background checks through this official channel.
Processing is handled in coordination with:
- Ministry of Interior (for security clearances)
- Ministry of Investment and International Cooperation (for investment validation)
- General Authority for Investment (GAFI) (for application management)
Egypt Citizenship Requirements
To qualify for Egyptian citizenship, applicants must meet several eligibility standards, regardless of the pathway chosen.
These include:
- Proof of legal entry and residence: Applicants must demonstrate that their presence and activities in Egypt are legal and authorized.
- Good conduct and reputation: A clean criminal record is mandatory, supported by background checks coordinated with national security agencies.
- Financial solvency: Proof of stable financial resources, including bank statements, investment certificates, or asset declarations, is required to ensure the applicant can support themselves without burdening the state.
- Commitment to national laws: Applicants must pledge allegiance to Egypt, agreeing to respect its constitution and abide by its laws.
Document requirements typically include:
- Valid passport copies
- Birth certificates
- Police clearance certificates from both home country and Egypt
- Evidence of investment (for investors)
- Marriage and birth certificates (if applying with family members)
- Medical reports as proof of good health
Each file undergoes thorough security screening and administrative review before a final decision is issued.
How Much Does It Cost to Invest in Egypt Citizenship?
The cost to obtain Egyptian citizenship through investment starts with a minimum of $300,000 for real estate, $450,000 for business investments, or a $500,000 bank deposit.
Applicants can also make a $100,000 philanthropic donation.
Additional costs include a $10,000 application fee, legal and administrative expenses, and due diligence fees, which may vary depending on the chosen investment option.
These CBI fees contribute to the overall cost of obtaining Egyptian citizenship, and investors should consider them when planning their investment.
Benefits of Egyptian Citizenship
Egyptian citizenship offers several key benefits, including visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 50 countries, making international travel more convenient.
Investors gain full rights to own property and establish businesses in Egypt, enhancing their financial opportunities.
Citizens also enjoy the right to live, work, and study within Egypt, as well as in other countries within the Arab world.
Additionally, Egyptian citizenship opens doors to regional markets in North Africa and the Middle East, fostering business growth and networking.
Is Egyptian Citizenship by Investment Worth It?
Egypt citizenship by investment program offers a compelling option for high-net-worth individuals and expats seeking greater flexibility and opportunities.
With the chance to invest in real estate or make significant financial contributions, applicants can unlock access to the country’s strategic location, robust business environment, and a gateway to regional markets.
However, while the program presents numerous advantages, including property ownership rights and visa-free travel to several countries, potential investors should carefully assess the costs and legal requirements involved.
It’s important to consider factors such as the country’s economic stability, investment thresholds, and residency obligations.
Ultimately, for those seeking a foothold in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Egyptian citizenship can provide long-term value, but it’s essential to approach it with a clear understanding of both the benefits and challenges.
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Adam is an internationally recognised author on financial matters with over 830million answer views on Quora, a widely sold book on Amazon, and a contributor on Forbes.
