Egypt

Obtaining a residency in Egypt involves several steps and the process can vary depending on the type of visa one is applying for. The most common types of residency visas are the Egypt Temporary Residence Visa and the Egypt Work Visa. For expatriates looking to live in Egypt, the process is generally considered average in terms of difficulty, though it can be bureaucratic and time-consuming. To begin the process, expats must first secure a job or have a valid reason for staying in Egypt, such as family reunification. For a work visa, a foreign national must have a job offer from an Egyptian company. The company typically sponsors the visa and assists with the paperwork. The applicant must submit various documents, including a valid passport, a completed application form, passport-sized photos, a health certificate proving the applicant is free from HIV/AIDS, and a letter from the employer detailing the job offer and duration of employment. Once in Egypt, expats must convert their entry visa into a Temporary Residence Visa. This requires registering with the local police department within seven days of arrival in Egypt. The Temporary Residence Visa is usually valid for one year and can be renewed annually. For digital nomads, the Egypt Tourist Visa is the most straightforward option. It allows them to live in Egypt for up to 90 days. This visa can be obtained relatively easily either upon arrival or in advance from an Egyptian consulate or embassy. However, it does not permit the holder to work in Egypt, and overstaying the visa can result in fines or deportation. Overall, while the process can be bureaucratic, with the correct documentation and a bit of patience, obtaining a residency visa in Egypt is manageable for most expats. It is advisable to seek assistance from the sponsoring company or a legal expert to navigate the process smoothly.

Healthcare in Egypt

The system in Egypt consists of both public and private sectors. The public healthcare system is heavily subsidized by the government, making it affordable for a large portion of the population. However, the quality of public healthcare can vary significantly, with urban areas typically having better facilities and more skilled medical staff than rural regions. The private healthcare sector is known for providing higher quality services with more modern facilities and shorter waiting times, but at a higher cost. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare by obtaining a residence permit and contributing to the social insurance system, although many opt for private health insurance to ensure access to private hospitals and clinics.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Egypt is generally considered moderate. Essentials such as food, housing, and transportation are relatively affordable, but prices can vary depending on the region and proximity to major cities or tourist destinations.

Weather

Egypt has a predominantly dry desert climate with very hot summers and mild winters. The majority of Egypt receives very little rainfall except for the coastal areas. During the summer, temperatures in the desert can reach extreme highs, while winter temperatures can be quite cool, especially at night.

Educational System in Egypt

The educational system in Egypt is structured into several stages: kindergarten, primary, preparatory, and secondary education. Kindergarten is optional and typically starts at the age of four. Primary education begins at the age of six and lasts for six years, leading to a Basic Education Completion Certificate. Following primary school, students enter preparatory school, which lasts for three years. Secondary education also spans three years and is divided into general and technical secondary education. General secondary education prepares students for higher education and ends with the Thanaweya Amma, the general secondary education certificate examination. Technical secondary education offers vocational training in various fields. The Egyptian educational system has faced challenges such as overcrowding, limited resources, and a need for curriculum reform. However, efforts are being made to improve the quality of education, including the introduction of new teaching methods and the integration of technology in classrooms. The government provides free education at all levels, although private and are available for those who seek alternative curricula and languages of instruction, such as English or French. These schools often cater to expatriate families and may follow different educational systems, such as the American, British, or International Baccalaureate (IB) programs.