A 90-day exemption remains for phones belonging to Egyptians living abroad and tourists
The Egyptian Customs Authority and the National Telecom Regulatory Authority announced that the exceptional exemption for mobile phones brought into Egypt by passengers will end at noon on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. Phones belonging to Egyptians living abroad and tourists will continue to be exempt for 90 days.
The announcement follows the introduction of Egypt’s regulatory system for mobile phones imported from abroad in January 2025. The system initially included an exceptional customs exemption for one phone per passenger until locally manufactured, customs-free devices became available.
The system has helped attract 15 international mobile phone manufacturers to the Egyptian market, with annual production capacity of 20 million devices, exceeding domestic demand.
Egypt’s mobile phone industry underwent a significant transformation in 2025, improving the availability of the latest international models manufactured locally, with varied features and specifications suitable for all consumer segments. These devices are available through retail outlets and international companies’ official branches. They are produced by the same global manufacturers, or under their direct technical supervision, to the same technical specifications and international quality standards as equivalent devices made abroad, at competitive prices.
This momentum reflects the direct positive impact of regulatory policies, which have created approximately 10,000 jobs for young Egyptians while meeting domestic demand. The statement said this removes the need to purchase foreign-manufactured phones or continue the exceptional exemption.
How to pay taxes and fees
To make payment easier, taxes and fees on mobile phones brought from abroad can be paid through the “Telephony” app and digital payment channels offered by banks and electronic wallets. A grace period of up to 90 days from first activation allows users to regularise their devices before regulatory action is taken. Instalment payment options for these taxes and fees will also be introduced in the coming period.
No retroactive application
The Customs Authority and the National Telecom Regulatory Authority confirmed that the taxes and fees will not apply retroactively to devices exempted before the decision takes effect.
The Customs Authority also informed incoming passengers that personal mobile phone registration at customs offices has been discontinued because it is no longer required. Applicable taxes and fees must be paid through the channels outlined above, according to the Egyptian Cabinet’s official Facebook page.
For further information, the statement advised contacting the Telephony app hotline on 15380 or the following WhatsApp numbers:
01033151553
01152118155
01200038580
01501592162
