Legal structures

Company types in Egypt

Each legal form carries different obligations for capital, governance, and liability. Compare the options below — and if you're unsure, the questionnaire or a consultation will point you to the right one.

01Guided online

Sole Proprietorship

The simplest legal form in Egypt. One individual owns the business and is personally responsible for its obligations. Registration runs through the Commercial Registry with a tax card, and it is often the fastest and cheapest route to formalize an activity.

Freelancers, consultants, and small traders who want a simple structure to invoice clients and open a bank account.

Complexity: Low

02Guided online

Single Member Company (One-Person Company)

A limited liability entity owned by a single person (individual or company). It separates personal assets from business obligations while keeping governance simple, and is incorporated through GAFI.

Solo founders who want limited liability without partners.

Complexity: Medium

03Guided online

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

The most common company form for SMEs and startups in Egypt. Requires at least two partners, whose liability is limited to their capital contributions. Incorporated through GAFI, with flexible management via one or more managers.

Founders with one or more partners, startups, and SMEs that need a credible corporate vehicle for banking, invoicing, and contracts.

Complexity: Medium

04Consultation required

Joint Stock Company (SAE)

A share-based company suited to larger ventures, investment rounds, and regulated activities. Requires at least three shareholders, a board of directors, and higher capital and governance requirements.

Ventures planning significant investment, employee share plans, or regulated activities.

Complexity: High

05Consultation required

Foreign Company Branch

A branch of an existing foreign company registered to carry out work in Egypt, usually tied to a contract with an Egyptian counterpart. The parent company remains fully liable for the branch.

Foreign companies executing contracts or projects in Egypt.

Complexity: High

06Consultation required

Representative Office

An office of a foreign company limited to market research and studying the feasibility of doing business in Egypt. It may not carry out commercial activity or generate revenue.

Foreign companies exploring the Egyptian market before committing to an entity.

Complexity: High