What are the types of residency permits in Egypt? And how do they relate to opening bank accounts?

Yes , you can open a non-resident account at some banks, but this isn’t guaranteed at all banks, and it may vary depending on the branch and their flexibility.

What types of accounts are available to you?

Non-resident foreign currency account usually in dollars or euros
Cannot be used for deposits or transfers in Egyptian pounds.

It is usually used only for storing funds in foreign currencies or transferring funds to/from abroad.

Savings account in foreign currency or pounds, provided there is a justification for the source of the funds:
Some branches accept savings accounts with a minimum deposit (usually $100 or equivalent).

You will be asked to prove the source of the funds (such as a transfer from abroad or a previous bank statement).

Prominent banks you can try

HSBC Egypt
One of the most flexible banks dealing with foreigners.

It’s best to visit a large branch in Cairo or Alexandria.

It offers accounts in various currencies for non-resident foreigners.

CIB (Commercial International Bank)
It has good experience with non-Egyptians.

You may be asked for a letter from an official authority or proof of the source of funds.

It’s best to try the main branch or a large branch.

QNB Al Ahli
Some branches accept accounts for foreigners, but it depends on the branch manager.

They may require extended residency, so the situation is less flexible.

Typically required documents

Original (valid) passport.
Valid tourist visa or residency.
Proof of address in Egypt (such as a notarized rental agreement or utility bill in your name or the host’s name).
Sometimes: Proof of source of funds (bank transfer from abroad or previous bank statement)

Tip- If you don’t have proof of address, you can ask your landlord to write you a hosting letter and a utility bill in their name, which your bank may accept.

Important notes

Avoid mentioning that you intend to use the account for any business within Egypt, as this may be considered a violation of tourist residency requirements.
Each bank branch has different permissions. If you are rejected at one branch, try another in a different area.
Having a money transfer from abroad in your name can greatly facilitate opening an account

What is currently recommended?

Start by visiting an HSBC or CIB branch in a prime area and asking them for details on opening a non-resident account. Be honest about your intentions as a tourist and only want to open an account to receive or store your money.

Yes, there are some additional details that may be of interest to you based on your status as a Comoros resident holding a tourist residency in Egypt, and they relate to

First – Egyptian banks’ restrictions on foreigners

Most banks in Egypt subject foreigners (especially non-residents or those with tourist residency permits) to additional precautionary measures due to

Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Laws.
Central Bank of Egypt Instructions on Dealing with Foreigners.

Accordingly

Opening an account is not a guaranteed right; it is a decision left to the discretion of the bank and the branch manager.
You may be asked to sign a declaration stating that you will not use the account for business within Egypt.
Any subsequent incoming money transfers to the account will be audited.

Second- Source of funds

Even if you’re a tourist, any money you deposit or transfer into your account must have a clear source. Acceptable examples include

Source	Accepted?	Required Document
Transfer from a foreign account in your name	Yes	Bank statement or transfer receipt
Western Union transfer in your name	Usually	Transfer receipt or notification letter
Cash deposit when opening the account	With caution	Proof of legal source of funds
Income from work inside Egypt	❌ Not allowed	Violates the terms of tourist residency

The special situation of the Comoros

The Comoros is not on the “country list” of Egyptian banks, but some branches may request additional information about your country for banking reconciliation purposes. Therefore

Prepare your documents thoroughly.
Maintain a courteous and polite manner when speaking with bank staff.

The best bank branches for dealing with non-Egyptians

Banks that have branches in areas with a large number of foreigners are more accustomed to handling cases like yours.

HSBC or CIB branches in Zamalek, Maadi, or Mohandessin (Cairo).
Branches near international universities or major hotels.

Third-The alternative plan in case of rejection

If you are having difficulty opening a personal account at a traditional bank, here are the alternatives

Using e-wallet services (such as Vodafone Cash or Etisalat Cash):
Unfortunately, you need an Egyptian national ID number, but some branches may allow you to register a foreign wallet with a valid passport and residency card.
Opening an account through a trusted Egyptian partner (joint account):
Not legally preferable unless there is a high level of trust, as the account will be in their name or with them.
Using international banks outside Egypt (such as Wise or Payoneer):
You can receive and transfer funds from an external account, then withdraw them in cash in Egypt using international debit cards.