Does an “Urfi” contract grant me a residency permit in Egy
No. The Ministry of Interior does not recognize informal contracts for granting residency. You must have a registered contract (Ministry of Justice) to apply for spouse residency
Can I prove my children’s lineage if the marriage is not registered?
Yes, through a “Lineage Suit” ($دعوى\ إثبات\ نسب$). The Urfi contract is used as evidence in court to issue birth certificates for children, protecting their right to their father’s name.
What happens to my inheritance rights if my husband passes away?
Under an Urfi contract, you cannot inherit. The law requires a registered document to grant inheritance. To protect yourself, the husband must write a “Sale Contract” or a “Gift Deed” ($عقد\ بيع\ أو\ هبة$) for assets during his lifetime.
Can I claim alimony (financial support) if we separate?
In the Urfi case, you can sue for “Marriage Validation” ($إثبات\ زوجية$) first, then claim alimony. Without this, the court won’t mandate support.
How can I protect my right to the apartment (housing)?
You should include a clause in the Urfi contract stating you have the right of “Occupancy” ($حق\ الانتفاع$) or ensure your name is on the lease/property deed separately.