Egyptian company law includes important safeguards for capital contributed during the foundation process. Under Article 20 of Companies Law No. 159 of 1981, any funds paid into the company account during the foundation stage must be deposited in a bank designated by the relevant minister. The company is not permitted to withdraw these funds until it has been formally and legally established.
This means that your invested capital is effectively held in trust in a designated bank account and cannot be accessed or spent by the founders until the company registration is complete. This protects all partners — including foreign investors — from misuse of funds during what can sometimes be a lengthy registration process.
As a practical step, make sure you receive proper bank documentation confirming the deposit, as this is typically required as part of the official incorporation paperwork submitted to the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI). Working with a reputable local bank and a qualified corporate lawyer will help ensure this process goes smoothly.
This is general legal information, not legal advice. For advice on your specific situation, consult a lawyer licensed in Egypt.