Importing Personal Effects

Goods shipped from the UK to the Egypt must clear customs upon arrival. It’s essential to have the necessary customs documents ready to avoid delays and additional charges.

Shipments to be declared as used household goods and personal effects. Most shipments are subject to 100% physical inspection.

Shipments of used household and personal effects are dutiable and must be imported within six months from the shipper’s personal arrival.

A work permit and/or six-month residence permit is required. A Bank Guarantee or cash deposit covering the duties must be lodged with customs.

Serial numbers of electrical appliances must be written on the packing list.

To assist you, City Moving & Storage can provide guidance on which forms and supporting documentation you will need. However, please note that the responsibility for completing and submitting these customs forms to us for approval lies with the customer. It’s advisable to prepare all formalities in advance of your move to ensure a smooth transportation process.

Egyptian Visa Requirements

Visa and Documentation: Check the visa requirements for moving to Egypt based on your nationality. Depending on your purpose of stay (work, study, retirement, etc.), you may need to apply for a specific type of visa. Ensure all your documents, such as passports, visa application forms, and supporting documents, are in order and up to date before your belongings leave the UK.

Navigating Egypt’s immigration laws and procedures is essential when seeking resident status or visas. Here’s a guide to help you through the process:

1. Identify Your Purpose for Living in Egypt: Determine whether your stay is for work, study, retirement, or family reunification, as different visa types are available for various purposes.
2. Explore Visa Options: Egypt offers several visa categories, such as tourist, work, student, and residency visas. Each visa comes with its own requirements and duration, so review which type best suits your situation.
3. Work Visa Process: For those planning to work in Egypt, your employer will sponsor your work visa by providing documents such as a job offer, work contract, and company registration. Work visas typically require approval from the Ministry of Manpower and Immigration.
4. Student Visa Requirements: If you are enrolling in an Egyptian educational institution, you’ll need a student visa. The school should help with the application and provide documents like an acceptance letter, proof of enrolment, and evidence of financial support.
5. Obtaining a Residency Visa: To qualify for a residency visa, you must meet criteria such as having stable finances, a clean criminal record, and secured accommodation. Residency visas are usually valid for one year and can be renewed.
6. Comply with Visa Regulations: After obtaining your visa or residency, ensure you follow Egypt’s immigration regulations. Keep your documents current and renew your visa or permit as needed to maintain your legal status.
7. Permanent Residency and Citizenship Options: Egyptian citizenship is generally acquired through naturalization after meeting specific residency and eligibility requirements. Permanent residency may be available for long-term residents, but the process varies. Consult legal experts to explore your options.

Prohibited items and Restrictions

In general, it is in your interest not to import the following items:

• Firearms & ammunition
• Inflammable goods & substances, including paint. 
• Plants & plant material
• Foodstuffs, perishables or otherwise – including pet food.
• Narcotics and dangerous goods
• Offensive materials – including DVD’s & books.
• Alcohol & Tobacco

Transit time

Transit times can vary based on your chosen transport method, the size of your consignment, and the destination. Once you provide this information, City Moving & Storage will be able to advise you on expected transit times. Please reach out to them for further assistance.

Accreditations

City Moving and Storage Ltd are members of the British Association of Removers (BAR) and FIDI both operates to a strict code of conduct, using professionally trained staff and provides financial protection. Both of these affiliations ensure that our customers receive the very best removals and storage services that the industry can supply.

FIDI Fédération Internationale des Déménageurs Internationaux (International Federation of International Movers). Established in 1950, FIDI is the global alliance of professional international moving and relocation companies, specialised in the moving of household goods and personal effects around the world. 

Accreditation to this organisation requires annual audits on all areas of our business: staff training, health & safety, processes and procedures, constant monitoring, all to ensure a move happens to a very high standard.

To learn more about FIDI please visit https://www.fidi.org/