Eligibility requirements for registration under Egyptian Investment Law No. 72 of 2017: A simplified guide for investors

To register your company under the Egyptian Investment Law No. 72 of 2017, you must meet specific conditions outlined in the law and its executive regulations. Here's a simplified breakdown:

1. Type of Activity

Your company’s business must fall under one of the investment activities targeted by the law, such as:

• Industry

• Agriculture

• Tourism

• Information Technology

• Energy

• Logistics and Transport Services

• Other strategic sectors the state seeks to develop

2. Legal Form of the Company

The company can be established in any recognized legal form, such as:

• Joint Stock Company (JSC)

• Limited Liability Company (LLC)

• Partnership Limited by Shares

• Sole Proprietorship

Each form has its own specific legal requirements.

3. Minimum Capital Requirements

• JSC: Minimum issued capital: EGP 250,000

  • 10% must be paid at establishment

  • Raised to 25% within 3 months

• LLC: Minimum capital: EGP 300,000

• Sole Proprietorship: Minimum capital: EGP 100,000

4. Founders / Partners

• LLC: At least two partners

• JSC: At least three founders

5. Required Documents

You’ll need to submit:

• Articles of Incorporation & Bylaws

• Official Powers of Attorney

• Valid ID (National ID or Passport for foreigners)

• Bank certificate for capital deposit

• Commercial registry name clearance certificate

6. Licenses & Approvals

You must obtain all required licenses from relevant authorities based on your activity.

7. Compliance

The company must:

• Be registered in the Commercial Registry

• Register with the Tax Authority

• Register with Social Insurance

8. Special Zones or Activities

If the company is operating in Free Zones, Investment Zones, or Special Economic Zones, additional approvals and conditions may apply.

9. Additional Practical Conditions

• The company must aim to establish a new investment project, not restructure an old one just to benefit from incentives.

• Must start within a specific timeline (extendable by Cabinet decision).

• Maintain separate accounts if operating in multiple areas.

• No partner should transfer assets from an existing company just to obtain incentives.

Legal Advisory

It’s highly recommended to consult a legal advisor specialized in investment to ensure full compliance and fast-track the registration.

Can Existing Companies Register Under the Investment Law?

Yes — it is possible to convert an existing company not originally registered under Law 72 of 2017, provided that all criteria are met.

Steps to Convert an Existing Company

• Amend Articles of Association Adjust the company’s activity, capital, and legal form to align with the Investment Law.

• Prepare Required Documents Just like a new company:

• Obtain Necessary Licenses As per your business activity

• Submit a Request to GAFI (General Authority for Investment)

• Receive Official Approval Once verified, GAFI will issue a decision registering the company under the law.

Main Conditions for Conversion

• Business activity must be listed in the law

• Meet minimum capital thresholds

• No legal violations (e.g., asset transfer for false incentives)

• Full compliance with tax, insurance, and labor laws

Practical Notes

• Legal Guidance is Essential Always consult a lawyer specialized in investment

• Support from GAFI GAFI offers technical and procedural support during the conversion

• Access to Incentives After Conversion Once approved, you’ll gain access to:

  • Tax exemptions

  • Customs facilities

  • Legal protections for investors

Conclusion

Converting an existing company to operate under the Investment Law is entirely possible and can provide valuable benefits — but it requires careful planning, full compliance, and legal oversight.