Egypt’s Ministry of Finance has launched its first mobile application for property tax services, aiming to simplify procedures and expand digital services for taxpayers as part of a broader package of tax reforms that includes raising the tax exemption threshold for primary family homes and facilitating dispute settlements.
Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk said the new application allows users to:
- Submit property tax declarations electronically.
- Make advance tax payments and settle outstanding liabilities.
- Apply online for the primary family residence tax exemption.
Kouchouk added that, for the first time, owners of multiple properties will be able to file a single tax return, while electronic payment receipts will be officially recognized.
He said the app fulfills the government’s commitment to making property tax services accessible via mobile devices, reducing the need for in-person visits to tax offices.
As part of the reforms, the tax exemption threshold for a family’s primary residence has been increased to EGP 8 million (approximately $160,000), up from EGP 2 million (around $40,000).
The minister also announced the development of a smart reference pricing map for built properties to standardize valuations and improve fairness in property tax assessments.
Applications for the primary residence exemption can now be submitted through the electronic tax return without visiting a property tax office.
In addition, late-payment penalties will be waived for taxpayers who settle their principal tax debt by October 2, while ongoing tax disputes can be resolved by paying 70% of the assessed tax before the same deadline.
Kouchouk stressed that no property tax will be due if a building is destroyed or cannot be used because of exceptional circumstances.
The reform package also introduces incentives for compliant taxpayers, including a 25% discount on residential property taxes and a 10% discount on non-residential properties for those who file tax returns on time.
The discount rises to 30% for advance payments ranging from EGP 200 to EGP 1,000, depending on the type of property.
Meanwhile, Rami Youssef, Assistant Minister of Finance for Tax Policy, said the ministry is opening “a new chapter” with owners of previously undeclared properties, pledging to waive penalties for past non-compliance.
He also announced that the Property Tax Authority will withdraw all appeals pending before tax appeal committees and will no longer challenge rental values determined by official assessment committees. Taxpayers will also be allowed to pay property taxes and late fees in installments through electronic payment channels.
