What Americans Living in Egypt Need to Know in 2025

Living in Egypt as an American offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and professional opportunities. However, it’s essential to understand the tax obligations and financial considerations that come with residing abroad. This guide provides an overview of key tax responsibilities, recent legislative changes, and practical financial tips for Americans living in Egypt in 2025.

Americans living in Egypt: Visa types

For Americans seeking permanent residency in Egypt, several visa options are available, each tailored to specific circumstances.

Residency by investment

Who it’s for: Foreign nationals investing in Egyptian real estate or businesses.

Overview: Egypt offers residency permits to foreigners who invest in property or businesses within the country. The duration of the residency permit correlates with the investment amount.

Requirements:

Real estate investment:

• Invest a minimum of $50,000 in Egyptian property for a one-year renewable residency permit.
• Invest $100,000 for a three-year renewable residency permit.
• Invest $200,000 for a five-year renewable residency permit.

Business investment: 

• Invest at least $400,000 in an Egyptian business to qualify for permanent residency.

All investments must be officially registered, and applicants must provide proof of ownership or investment.

Residency by marriage

Who it’s for: Foreign nationals married to Egyptian citizens.

Overview: Spouses of Egyptian nationals can obtain residency permits, with the potential for permanent residency after a specified period.

Requirements:

• Provide an official Egyptian marriage certificate.
• Submit a valid passport with at least six months’ validity.
• Present the Egyptian spouse’s national ID.
• Provide proof of residence in Egypt (e.g., rental contract or utility bill).
• Initially, a temporary residency is granted and can be renewed annually. After five consecutive years of residency, applicants may apply for permanent residency.

Residency by work permit

Who it’s for: Foreign nationals employed by Egyptian companies.

Overview: Employment in Egypt can lead to residency permits, contingent upon the employer’s sponsorship and fulfillment of specific criteria.

Requirements:

• Secure a job offer from an Egyptian employer.
• The employer must obtain approval from the Egyptian Ministry of Manpower.
• Undergo a medical examination at a designated health center.
• Complete background checks and security clearance.
• Work permits are typically valid for one year and are renewable based on continued employment.

Navigating Egypt’s residency options can be complex. It’s advisable to consult with a legal professional experienced in Egyptian immigration laws to determine the most suitable path for your circumstances.

How to apply for an Egyptian visa as a U.S. citizen

Applying for an Egyptian visa as an American involves a few clear steps. The process will vary slightly depending on whether you’re seeking residency by investment, marriage, or work. Here’s how to get started:

1. Choose your visa type

Decide whether you are applying based on investment, marriage, or employment.

2. Gather your documents

Depending on your visa type, you’ll typically need:

• A valid U.S. passport (with at least six months’ validity)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Proof of investment, marriage, or employment (such as property deeds, marriage certificate, or job offer)
• Additional documents like police clearance or medical exam results

3. Submit your application

File your application at the nearest Egyptian consulate or embassy in the U.S. or in Egypt. For work permits, your employer may need to handle some paperwork locally.

4. Pay application fees

Fees vary by visa type and duration. Check current amounts with the consulate.

5. Attend an interview or provide biometrics

You may be asked to attend an interview or submit fingerprints and photos.

6. Wait for approval

Processing times range from several weeks to a few months. Once approved, you’ll receive your visa or residency permit.

Always confirm the latest requirements with the Egyptian consulate, as procedures may change.

Healthcare options for Americans living in Egypt

If you’re planning a move to Egypt or are already settled there, navigating the healthcare system is an important part of your expat journey. Let’s break down what you can expect and how you can access the care you need.

How the Egyptian healthcare system works

Egypt has a mix of public and private healthcare providers. Here’s what you should know:

• Public healthcare is managed by the government and is technically available to all residents, but it’s often crowded and facilities may not meet the standards you’re used to in the U.S.
• Private healthcare is widely used by expats and wealthier Egyptians. Private hospitals and clinics generally offer higher standards of care, more English-speaking staff, and shorter wait times.
• Health insurance is essential for Americans living in Egypt, as it covers treatment at private facilities and can help avoid high out-of-pocket costs.

Healthcare options for Americans living in Egypt

As an American expat, you have several ways to access healthcare:

• Private health insurance: Most expats opt for international or local private health insurance plans to cover private hospital and clinic visits.
• Out-of-pocket payments: Some expats pay directly for care, especially for minor treatments, as costs at private facilities are often lower than in the U.S.
• Pharmacies: Medication is widely available, and many pharmacies offer basic medical advice.

Pros and cons to healthcare for American expats living in Egypt

Pros:

• Private healthcare is generally affordable compared to U.S. prices.
• English-speaking doctors and staff are common in private hospitals.
• Access to a wide range of medical specialists in major cities.

Cons:

• Public hospitals may lack resources and have long wait times.
• Health standards can vary, especially outside major urban centers.
• International health insurance is strongly recommended, as private care can still be costly for more complex procedures.

Understanding your healthcare options in Egypt helps you make informed decisions and ensures you stay healthy throughout your stay.

Cost of living for American expats living in Egypt

Adjusting to the cost of living in Egypt can feel like a culture shock, especially if you’re used to U.S. prices and standards. Let’s break down what you can expect, how Egypt compares to the U.S., and what that means for your day-to-day life.

Here’s a side-by-side look at some typical monthly expenses:

Expense	Egypt (Cairo, avg.)	United States (NYC, avg.)	Comments/Considerations
Groceries	$120 – $180	$400 – $600	Imported goods can be pricier in Egypt; local produce is very affordable.
Housing (1BR apt, city center)	$250 – $450	$2,400 – $3,500	Housing is much cheaper in Egypt, but standards and amenities may differ.
Transport (public/monthly pass)	$10 – $15	$127	Public transportation is widely used and inexpensive in Egypt.
Phone plan (basic, monthly)	$5 – $10	$40 – $70	SIM cards and data are affordable and widely available.

Please note: These are averages; your costs may vary depending on lifestyle, location, and family size.

Pros and cons of the cost of living for American expats in Egypt

Pros:

• Your dollar stretches much further in Egypt—lower housing, transport, and everyday expenses mean a higher standard of living on a modest budget.
• Affordable domestic help and services can make life easier.
• Eating out, entertainment, and local travel are budget-friendly.

Cons:

• Imported products (including some foods and electronics) can be more expensive than in the U.S.
• Local housing may not always match American standards in terms of size, amenities, or maintenance.
• Adjusting to local norms (like negotiating rent or shopping at markets) can take some time.
• Access to certain comforts or brands you’re used to may be limited.

Living in Egypt offers real opportunities to save and experience a different pace of life, but it comes with trade-offs in terms of convenience and familiarity. If you’re prepared to adapt, you can enjoy a rewarding and affordable expat experience.

Where do American expats tend to live in Egypt?

While you’ll find Americans across Egypt, certain areas attract larger expat communities and offer more familiar comforts:

• Maadi (Cairo): This leafy, residential suburb south of downtown Cairo is a longtime favorite for American families and embassy staff. It’s known for its international schools, expat-friendly cafes, and a quieter pace compared to the city center.
• Zamalek (Cairo): Set on an island in the Nile, Zamalek is popular with young professionals and diplomats. It boasts a lively arts scene, trendy restaurants, and a walkable vibe that feels a bit more “Western.”
• New Cairo: A rapidly growing district on the city’s outskirts, New Cairo features modern housing compounds, shopping malls, and international schools. Many expats choose it for its newer infrastructure and gated communities.
• Alexandria: Egypt’s historic port city has a smaller, tight-knit American expat presence, drawn by its Mediterranean atmosphere, universities, and a somewhat slower pace than Cairo.

Tax implications for Americans living in Egypt

Navigating taxes as an American living in Egypt can feel like learning a whole new language—one where mistakes can be costly and rules seem to shift overnight. Let’s break down what you need to know, so you can stay compliant and keep more of what you earn.

American expats’ tax obligations

Filing U.S. tax returns

No matter where you live, if you’re a U.S. citizen or green card holder, you’re required to file an annual U.S. tax return. Yes, even if you haven’t set foot on U.S. soil in years, or all your income comes from abroad. The IRS wants to know about your worldwide earnings, not just what you make stateside.

• Key point: The standard filing deadline is April 15, but Americans abroad automatically get a two-month extension (to June 15). You can also request a further extension if needed.

Egyptian taxes

Living and working in Egypt means you may also be subject to local taxation. Egypt taxes residents on their worldwide income, and non-residents on income sourced from within Egypt.

• Who is a resident? Generally, you’re considered a tax resident if you live in Egypt for more than 183 days in a 12-month period or have an established place of business there.
• Rates: Egyptian income tax rates are progressive, ranging from 0% to 25%. Social insurance contributions may also apply if you’re employed locally.

Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE)

The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion lets you exclude a portion of your foreign-earned income from U.S. taxes, provided you meet either the Bona Fide Residence Test or the Physical Presence Test.

• 2025 limit: Up to $130,000 per qualifying individual.
• How it works: If you qualify, you can exclude this amount from your U.S. taxable income. Married couples filing jointly may each claim the exclusion if both have foreign earned income.
• Watch out: The FEIE doesn’t cover passive income (like dividends or rental income) or income earned as a government employee.

Foreign Tax Credit (FTC)

If you pay income tax to Egypt, you might be able to claim a dollar-for-dollar credit on your U.S. taxes using the Foreign Tax Credit, reducing the risk of double taxation.

• How it helps: This can be a lifesaver if your Egyptian tax rate is higher than the U.S. rate, or if you don’t qualify for the FEIE.
• What counts: Only income taxes paid to a foreign country are eligible—other types of taxes, like VAT or property tax, don’t count.
• Documentation: Keep all receipts and official statements proving payment of Egyptian taxes.

Tax treaty

Currently, there’s no comprehensive tax treaty between the U.S. and Egypt. This means:

• There’s no automatic mechanism to prevent double taxation beyond credits and exclusions.
• Some types of income (like pensions or social security) may be taxed differently in each country.

Reporting foreign bank accounts

If you have financial accounts in Egypt or elsewhere outside the U.S., you may need to file the FBAR (Foreign Bank Account Report) and/or IRS Form 8938.

• FBAR threshold: If the total value of all your foreign financial accounts exceeds $10,000 at any time during the year, you must file an FBAR.
• Form 8938: Additional reporting may be required under FATCA if your foreign assets exceed certain thresholds.
• Penalties: Non-compliance can trigger serious penalties—sometimes even criminal charges.

Social Security

• U.S. Social Security: If you’re self-employed in Egypt, you may still be liable for U.S. self-employment taxes, as there’s no totalization agreement between the U.S. and Egypt to prevent double contributions.
• Egyptian system: If you work for an Egyptian employer, you might need to contribute to the local social insurance scheme.
• Retirement planning: Carefully consider which system you’re contributing to and how that might impact your future benefits.

Moving to Egypt brings incredible opportunities, but also unique tax responsibilities. We’re here to help you make sense of it all, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure abroad with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions