Legal Consultation
for Foreign Property Buyers
in Egypt
Your Guide to Safe and Secure Real Estate Investment In Hurghada
Reviewed and Verified by
Mr. Ahmed Kamal
Specialized Real Estate Lawyer for Foreign Buyers
Member of the Egyptian Bar Association
General Legal Information
Foreigners can legally buy property in Egypt, subject to certain conditions, such as a limit of two properties per person and a maximum area of 4,000 m².
The process includes property search, contract signing, legal verification, payment, and registration at the Real Estate Registry (Shahr El Aqari).
A valid passport
Purchase agreement
Proof of fund transfer (for payments from abroad)
Additional documents may be requested depending on your personal or transaction circumstances.
Yes, but they are manageable. Foreigners are limited to owning up to two properties in total and must not exceed 4,000 m². You may also need approvals for registration depending on the property location.
In some cases, you'll need to submit a request to the Ministry of Defense or the Council of Ministers, especially for properties near strategic zones. A legal consultant can help prepare and submit the necessary paperwork.
Registration fees
Real estate tax
Legal consultation fees
Documentation costs
Property maintenance and utilities
Total extra costs usually range between 3% to 7% of the property value.
The primary method is via the Real Estate Registry. Registration requires a valid preliminary contract (urfi contract), identification of ownership chain, and verification by registry officials, including a site inspection.
It depends on the agreement. Some units are sold fully furnished, while others include only basic fittings. Always clarify inclusions in the purchase contract.
Ownership is transferred through a notarized sale agreement, followed by registration. Contracts can be signed in person or via a notarized power of attorney (POA).
Your legal representative should check the title deed, previous ownership, unpaid taxes, and any liens before proceeding with the transaction.
- Buying property not legally registered
- Fraudulent sellers
- Limited legal protection if contracts aren’t properly drafted
- Unclear property rights Legal representation is strongly recommended.
While not mandatory, it's highly advised to hire a real estate lawyer and/or a certified agent for legal verification, translation, and safe transactions.
Payment can be done via bank transfers from abroad or locally in cash or through an escrow account. Always retain proof of transaction for legal registration.
Some developments actively market to foreigners and simplify the legal process, but ownership rules still apply equally to all.
Electricity & water: $30–$100/month
Building maintenance: $300–$600/year depending on location and amenities
Hurghada’s market is growing steadily. Resale or rental potential depends on location, property condition, and legal clarity. Foreigners are free to resell or lease their property.
- Rising demand from foreign buyers
- Increasing property values
- New developments along the coast
- Strong short-term rental yields
If the property is properly registered, and contracts are legally reviewed, your rights are protected under Egyptian property law.
On average, the full process can take 4–12 weeks, depending on paperwork, registry schedules, and payment speed.
Foreigners usually pay in full. Mortgages are possible in rare cases through certain banks or developers under installment plans.
Legal Terms & Contracts
The Green Contract is the final, official ownership document issued by the Real Estate Registry. It's stronger than a private or preliminary contract and confirms full legal ownership.
You have full legal ownership, resale rights, and protection under Egyptian law.
- Right to use, sell, or lease the property
- Obligation to pay property taxes and maintenance fees
- Duty to abide by building regulations
A POA allows someone else to act on your behalf in Egypt — useful if you’re abroad during the process. It must be notarized and legalized.
You can get it from any Egyptian consulate or notarized locally. Processing may take a few days to a week.
No. You can issue it remotely through your local Egyptian consulate or via authorized legal representatives.
Real Estate Agencies
They help with property selection, negotiation, documentation, and often offer after-sale support.
Typically ranges from 2% to 5% of the property value.
Some offer legal assistance and accommodation services – often for an additional fee depending on the scope of service.
Commissions are usually negotiable and may vary based on property value or developer agreements.
Reputable agencies ensure legal paperwork, clear ownership, and may offer post-sale assistance.
Yes. You can use a lawyer independently, or in conjunction with a real estate agent.
Your lawyer should check all ownership records, building permits, and the title deed.
Title deed
Chain of ownership
Building licenses
Tax clearance
Utility clearance
Yes, if all documents are in order. However, full registration may take several weeks depending on the property type and region.
Not directly, but if you're using bank financing, additional documentation and approval steps are required.
Inheritance & Taxes
Inheritance follows Egyptian law unless otherwise specified in a will. Foreigners can inherit property and pass it to heirs.
Yes, through a notarized will or by naming them as co-owners in the title.
Yes. Ownership can be shared with anyone regardless of relation.
Yes, such as stamp duty, registration fees, and annual property tax.
- Registration tax
- Contract stamp duty
- Notary and documentation fees
Foreigners pay the same real estate taxes as Egyptians. No extra tax applies for being foreign.
Yes, capital gains tax may apply when reselling property.
Yes. These depend on property size, value, and location.
Yes. Rental income is subject to Egyptian income tax.
Ensure the property is registered and include inheritance details in a legal will.
Residency & Immigration
Yes. Property ownership doesn’t automatically grant residency, but it can support your visa application.
You may be eligible for renewable residency. Citizenship is more difficult and requires separate application under investment laws.
It allows you to apply for a residency permit, typically valid for 1–5 years.
Yes. Egypt has a residency-by-investment program for real estate buyers, especially over certain investment thresholds.
- Valid passport
- Ownership documents
- Proof of funds
- Background checks
Tourist visas allow 30–90 days. Residency permits may allow 1–5 years if granted.
Yes, as long as the property remains under your name and your documents are updated.
No, property ownership alone does not grant a work permit. A separate work visa is required.
Yes. Apply through the Immigration Office for a long-term or renewable residence permit.
Submit your application to the Immigration Office in Egypt, along with proof of property ownership and other required documents, and pay the fees.