Best Tax Lawyers in New Cairo

About Tax Law in New Cairo, Egypt

New Cairo is part of the Arab Republic of Egypt and is subject to Egyptian national tax law and regulations. The main taxes that individuals and businesses encounter include income tax, corporate tax, value-added tax - VAT, customs duties on imports, stamp taxes, and various local charges. National tax rules are set by the Ministry of Finance and administered by the Egyptian Tax Authority. Businesses operating in New Cairo must follow the same registration, filing and payment rules as elsewhere in Egypt, while investors can sometimes benefit from specific incentives under investment and free-zone regimes.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Tax law is technical and often fast-changing. You may need a lawyer when you face any of the following situations:

- Starting a business or opening a branch in New Cairo - to choose the right legal and tax structure and to register with the Tax Authority and other bodies.

- Preparing corporate tax returns, VAT returns or payroll filings - to ensure correct computation and compliance.

- Responding to a tax audit or assessment - to represent you in meetings with tax officers and to challenge assessments.

- Disputes with the Tax Authority - to file objections, appeals and, if needed, litigation in administrative courts.

- Structuring investments, mergers, acquisitions or property transactions - to optimize tax outcome and manage risks.

- Applying double taxation treaties or obtaining rulings - to secure treaty benefits for cross-border income.

- Handling payroll and employment tax issues - for proper withholding, social insurance compliance and employment related deductions.

- Managing VAT or customs disputes - for import classification, VAT recovery and refund claims.

Local Laws Overview

Key points of Egyptian tax law relevant to taxpayers in New Cairo include:

- Income and corporate tax framework - Egypt taxes individuals on Egyptian-source and, for residents, on worldwide income. Corporate profits are subject to corporate income tax. Tax rates and brackets are set by law and subject to periodic amendments.

- VAT - Egypt operates a VAT system that applies to most supplies of goods and services and to imports. Businesses must register for VAT when they meet the registration threshold and must file periodic VAT returns.

- Withholding taxes - Certain payments to nonresidents and to residents may be subject to withholding taxes at source. Proper withholding and reporting are essential to avoid penalties.

- Customs and import duties - Imports into Egypt are subject to customs duties and related import taxes. Customs classification and valuation rules determine payable duties.

- Stamp tax and local charges - Transactions and official documents may be subject to stamp taxes and municipal or local service charges.

- Transfer pricing - Transactions between related parties must meet the arm-s-length principle and be documented. The Tax Authority expects transfer pricing documentation for related-party transactions above thresholds.

- Tax residency - Residency for individuals and companies affects tax liability. Residency tests typically consider factors such as physical presence and place of effective management for companies.

- Audit, objection and appeal procedures - Taxpayers have formal rights to object to assessments, enter into administrative appeal processes and, where necessary, litigate in administrative courts. There are strict deadlines for objections and appeals.

- Incentives and investment rules - Certain sectors and zones may receive tax incentives or exemptions under investment laws or free zone regulations. Eligibility rules and conditions apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register for tax in New Cairo?

Registration is done with the Egyptian Tax Authority. Businesses must register for tax identification and, when applicable, for VAT. Registration requires company documents - such as commercial registry, national ID for owners or managers, lease or property title for the business premises, and other supporting papers. Many taxpayers engage an accountant or lawyer to prepare and submit registration documents.

When do I need to register for VAT?

VAT registration is required when a taxable person exceeds the prescribed taxable turnover threshold or elects to register voluntarily where allowed. Once registered, the business must charge VAT on taxable supplies, keep VAT-compliant invoices, file periodic VAT returns and remit collected VAT to the Tax Authority.

What are the main filing deadlines I should know about?

Filing deadlines vary by tax type. Corporate income tax returns, VAT returns and payroll-related filings each have their own schedules and payment due dates. Deadlines can change with annual tax rules and special measures. Because these deadlines are strict, it is important to confirm current dates with your tax advisor or the Tax Authority and to plan filings and payments in advance.

How does tax residency affect me?

Tax residency determines whether you are taxed on Egyptian-source income only or on worldwide income as well. For individuals, residency generally depends on physical presence and other connections to Egypt. For companies, residency is often based on place of incorporation or place of effective management. Residency rules can be complex, especially for expatriates and multinational entities, so legal advice is useful to determine your status and obligations.

What happens if I am audited by the Tax Authority?

Audits usually start with a notice from the Tax Authority requesting records and supporting documents. You will be expected to provide reliable accounting records, invoices, contracts and bank statements. A lawyer can help prepare responses, attend meetings with tax inspectors, negotiate on your behalf and challenge improper assessments. Failure to cooperate or to meet documentation standards can lead to penalties and additional assessments.

How do I contest an assessment or penalty?

If you disagree with an assessment or penalty, you generally have the right to file a formal objection with the Tax Authority within the statutory time limit. If the objection is denied, there are administrative appeal and judicial routes available. Lawyers experienced in tax litigation can guide you through the objection and appeal process, prepare legal arguments and represent you in the relevant tax committees or courts.

What taxes apply when I buy, sell or rent property in New Cairo?

Property transactions can trigger several tax consequences - stamp tax on certain transactions, registration fees, potential capital gains tax for sellers and income tax on rental income for owners. Specific duties and tax calculations depend on whether the property is residential, commercial, new or used, and on the taxpayer status. A legal advisor or tax specialist can review documentation to estimate tax liability and suggest structuring options.

How are payroll and social insurance handled for employees?

Employers must withhold and remit employee income tax and make employer and employee social insurance contributions. Payroll records must be maintained and submitted as required. Social insurance rules apply to both Egyptian nationals and certain foreign workers, subject to exemptions under bilateral agreements. Employment contracts, salary composition and benefits affect withholding and contribution calculations.

Can foreign companies operate in New Cairo and benefit from incentives?

Yes. Foreign companies can operate through branches, subsidiaries or representative offices. Egypt offers investment incentives in certain sectors and in free zones, which can include tax holidays, reduced rates or customs advantages. Eligibility depends on meeting legal and administrative conditions and on obtaining approvals from investment authorities. Advice is essential to secure incentives and to comply with local requirements.

How much will it cost to hire a tax lawyer in New Cairo?

Legal fees vary by firm, lawyer experience, complexity of the matter and the type of service - for example, routine registration versus audit defense or litigation. Common fee arrangements include hourly rates, fixed fees for specific tasks, or retainers for ongoing work. Always ask for a written engagement letter describing the scope, fees and billing terms before hiring a lawyer.

Additional Resources

When seeking reliable information and official guidance in New Cairo, consider these resources and authorities:

- Egyptian Tax Authority - the main public body responsible for tax administration and guidance.

- Ministry of Finance - sets tax policy and publishes laws and regulations.

- General Authority for Investment and Free Zones - for investment incentives and procedures.

- Customs Authority - for import duties and customs procedures.

- Local chamber of commerce and professional associations - for business guidance and referrals to accountants and tax lawyers.

- Certified public accountants and tax advisory firms in Cairo - for practical compliance and filing support.

- Administrative courts - when formal judicial action is required in tax disputes.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with tax matters in New Cairo, consider this practical roadmap:

- Gather your documents - tax returns, financial statements, bank records, contracts, payroll records, property deeds and any correspondence with tax authorities.

- Identify the issue - registration, filing, audit response, dispute, transaction structuring or incentives.

- Find a qualified tax lawyer - look for specialization in Egyptian tax law, experience with your type of matter, and client references. Ensure the lawyer speaks a language you understand and can represent you locally.

- Ask for an initial consultation - discuss the facts, probable outcomes, timelines and fee structure. Request a written engagement letter defining scope and costs.

- Act promptly - tax procedures and appeals have strict deadlines. Early engagement increases options and reduces the risk of penalties.

- Work with a combined team when needed - lawyers, accountants and customs specialists often work together to provide full support for audits, filings and transactional planning.

Taking these steps will help you manage tax obligations in New Cairo with clarity and reduce legal and financial risks. If you are unsure where to start, contact a local tax lawyer or certified tax advisor for an initial assessment.