By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Egypt Independent
Published on 2024-01-24 08:03:33
During a telephone interview with the privately-owned Sada el-Balad TV channel, Yahya al-Kedwani, a member of the Defense and National Security Committee in the Egyptian House of Representatives, emphasized Egypt’s commitment to the Refugee Convention since the 1950s. He stated that Egypt has kept its doors open as a gesture of humanity and continues to do so.
Kedwani clarified that Egypt will not establish special shelter camps for refugees. Instead, the Cabinet issued a decision to audit the numbers of those in Egypt illegally so that they can apply to issue a residency card and pay fines amounting to US$1,000, which are to be transferred to one of the approved banks.
He emphasized Egypt’s right to know the number of foreigners residing on its territory and be aware of their activities. Kedwani also cited the International Organization for Migration’s confirmation that there are nine million refugees residing in Egypt, all of whom enjoy the same benefits as Egyptian citizens. He suggested that regularizing their status will increase Egypt’s income in foreign currencies, which the country needs.
The rationing period for this process is three months, beginning in January and ending in March. The Egyptian Cabinet issued a decision last year stipulating that foreigners applying for the right of residence for tourism or non-tourism purposes must submit a receipt indicating that they have transferred residency fees, late fines, or costs of issuing a residency card in US dollars or the equivalent in foreign currencies, through certified banks or exchange companies.
Kedwani also mentioned that foreigners residing in the country illegally must regularize their status and legalize their residency so long as they have an Egyptian host. In exchange, they are required to deposit administrative expenses equivalent to US$1,000 at an Egyptian bank.
In conclusion, al-Kedwani emphasized Egypt’s commitment to upholding the Refugee Convention and the steps being taken to ensure that foreigners residing in Egypt do so legally while contributing to the country’s economy.
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