New Visa Rules In Egypt

Expats in Egypt are being denied tourist visa extensions after a change in the visa system

London, UK (Pryce Warner International) August 3rd, 2011 – Previously, Expats were free to renew their tourist visas indefinitely and for very little money. Now however, only those who have not applied for multiple visa extensions are able to get them, and then only for three months.

The new rules are designed to reduce the amount of illegal foreign workers, as previously Expats would have been able to stay in the country indefinitely on a tourist visa. However, genuine applications are being affected and individuals are being unfairly caught in the crossfire.

The Egyptian government claims that this is part of an effort to tackle Egypt’s unemployment, and that work visas are still freely available. There is a 10% limit on foreign workers in any company and these are meant to be reserved for areas where there is a shortage of local experience.

Some companies and individuals in the past have sought to get around these rules by simply extending a tourist visa indefinitely.

The change seems unlikely to affect tourism, as it is still possible for tourists to get a three-month visa, which should be plenty for anyone legitimately looking to only tour the country.

Expats in Egypt currently on a tourist visa will need to ensure that they immediately apply for a work and/or residency visa, as it will no longer be possible to remain in the country long-term on a tourism visa.

It is as yet unclear what the penalty would be for overstaying on a tourist visa but there is speculation that it could range from as little as a fine to deportation.

David Retikin, Director of Operations at Pryce Warner International, a financial services provider for Expats, commented: “With the exact penalty yet to be confirmed it is important that any Expats currently residing in Egypt on a tourist visa get a hold of the appropriate visa as soon as possible. It is highly understandable that the Egyptian government would want to reduce the amount of illegal workers in the country and this seems an appropriate measure to take. While this will undoubtedly be inconvenient for Expats there are other visas they should be able to claim and therefore remain in the country.”

Pryce Warner International Group provide International Asset & Investment Management, Independent Financial Advice & QROPS Overseas Pensions.

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By: Aneil Fatania
Financial Editor
Pryce Warner International Group
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