Opening a Bank Account in Egypt as a Foreigner
A local bank account makes life in Egypt much easier — salary, rent and bills all run more smoothly. Can foreigners open one? Yes.
Typical documents
- Each bank sets its own list; commonly:
- Original valid passport (some banks also look at your visa or residence);
- Proof of address, such as a recent utility bill or lease;
- Proof of income or source of funds, such as an employer letter or payslip;
- A local mobile number for SMS codes and online banking.
Steps
- Call or visit the bank beforehand to confirm documents, account type (EGP or foreign currency) and any balance requirements;
- Go in person with originals and complete the account and AML forms;
- Collect your card and activate mobile banking;
- Keep copies of everything you sign.
Safety
- The Chinese Embassy warns of scams using "special exchange rates" in chat groups, fake transfer screenshots or counterfeit notes, and people impersonating customer service, customs or telecom staff. So:
- Exchange money through lawful channels;
- Don't click unknown links or install unknown apps;
- Never share your card PIN or one-time codes with anyone.
Note
Charges and minimum balances are set by each bank and change over time; check with the bank directly.
Sources
- Banker.news – CBE circular of 7 Aug 2024 on accounts for non-resident foreigners (press, quotes the circular): www.banker.news (non-government / press)
- Ahram Online – CBE allows non-residing foreigners to open bank accounts: english.ahram.org.eg (non-government / press)
- CBE – Consumer Protection: www.cbe.org.eg
- 中国驻埃及使馆 1 Oct 2025 电信网络诈骗提醒: eg.china-embassy.gov.cn
Your first week in Egypt
- Get a local SIM card and save key addresses in Arabic.
- Keep some Egyptian pounds in cash and use official exchange channels.
- Check your health insurance and the nearest hospital.
- Save emergency numbers and your embassy contact from its official website.
- Install a ride-hailing app and find the supermarket and pharmacy near your home.
How we work
- Send your request from the booking page or our contact channels: the task, the city and the date.
- The Wang Fu team checks the details and asks about your field and terminology if needed.
- You receive a written quote and plan before anything starts.
- We assign the right person, coordinate on site or remotely, and stay in touch until the job is done.