Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Egypt Independent
Published on 2024-02-05 10:25:43
In a recent interview on the “al-Hekaya” (The Story) show on MBC Masr, Sherif Ajeeb, the Deputy Executive Director of Naturalization Applications Examination Unit of the Egyptian Cabinet, addressed and refuted claims about Egyptian citizenship being granted in exchange for US$10,000. Ajeeb clarified that the $10,000 is actually an administrative fee for submitting an application for citizenship and is non-refundable.
He explained that Arab communities are particularly eager for Egyptian citizenship, with hundreds of individuals applying for it. This dream of obtaining Egyptian citizenship is a significant motivation for many individuals.
Ajeeb also shed light on the process of reviewing and evaluating citizenship applications. He emphasized that all applications are sent to relevant security authorities for examination and study, and this review process serves as the primary criterion for accepting or rejecting the application. This ensures that the granting of citizenship is a thoughtful and deliberate process.
Furthermore, Ajeeb provided insight into the programs for obtaining Egyptian citizenship. He mentioned that Egyptian citizenship has been granted to some individuals in the past based on investment programs that have been evaluated and amended. He specifically pointed out that in March 2023, amendments were made to the established investment programs regarding ownership of real estate and funds in banks to grant Egyptian citizenship.
One of the programs for obtaining Egyptian citizenship involves purchasing real estate, with the property ownership value required for citizenship estimated at up to $300,000. Ajeeb clarified that the amount must be transferred from abroad, and once the applicant enters Egypt for the first time and purchases a property from a real estate developer within Egypt, they can obtain Egyptian citizenship through this program.
Another program involves placing a deposit of $500,000, which is refunded after three years in Egyptian pounds, or transferring $250,000 to the state’s treasury. Additionally, there is a program for obtaining Egyptian citizenship by establishing a new company or participating in an existing company with an amount of $450,000, of which $100,000 will be paid to the state treasury.
In light of Ajeeb’s explanations, it is evident that the process of obtaining Egyptian citizenship is not as simple as the initial claims suggested. The granting of citizenship involves a thorough assessment of applications, and there are specific investment programs and financial requirements in place for individuals seeking citizenship. Ajeeb’s insights provide a comprehensive understanding of the procedures and criteria associated with obtaining Egyptian citizenship.
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