Egypt

Situated at the extreme north-eastern corner of the African continent, Egypt is an entry point to the Middle East and Africa. Because it owns the Suez Canal, Egypt administers all access between the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean, and thus most sea traffic between Europe and the Middle East, East Africa and Asia. 95% of Egypt's population is concentrated in the Nile river valley and delta, as most of the rest of the country is desert.

In 2008, imports of manufactured goods, machinery and transport equipment increased and accounted for around 45% of total imports. Mineral fuels, lubricants and related materials accounted for 44% of Egypt's exports in 2008. Top partners for exports in 2008 were Italy, India and the Netherlands. The “cradle of civilization” for centuries, Egypt has a large number of historic monuments and offers many sightseeing attractions. Tourism is therefore an important source of revenue for the country.

Egypt’s weak infrastructure can be an obstacle to trade. But the market has the advantage of being large (76 million inhabitants), homogeneous (more than 99% of the population is of Egyptian origin) and fast-growing. Egypt has high demand for new products and equipment, especially in information technology. But because of the weak purchasing power of the population, only the elite can afford higher-range consumer products.

To learn about doing business with Egypt, visit the Egyptian International Trade Point. The website provides directories, statistics, an online marketplace, a schedule of trade fairs and more. And don't forget the website of the U.S. Commercial Service in Egypt. The site gives extensive information about the markets through news and guides, and programs a lot of conferences, trade missions and training. You’ll also find plenty of good research at the Egypt Mini Portal, a feature of the FITA Web site. The Egypt Mini Portal has an overview of the country, with facts about the language, currency, climate, etc., plus more specific information about the economy, markets, taxes, labor market indicators and tips on doing business in Egypt.

Shipping or Moving Your Belongings Overseas?

Here is a check list from Escape From America Magazine to help you ensure you find the right shipping company to transport your belongings overseas:

•What insurance do they offer? What is and what is not covered? Ask to see their insurance copy documents.

•Ask about the company’s history, how long have they been in business and how many international moves have they orchestrated?

•Get in writing the logistics of the move. What time will the truck arrive? What is the estimated time to finish loading up?

•Do they have any references, are you able to contact past clients?

•Are they a member of any of the trade associations?

•If your goods are not shipped immediately, then where will they be stored? Does it have 24hr security?

•Ask your moving company about Custom forms. Will they handle this for you and fill out all forms? Are they qualified to do so?

•Ask what restrictions the country you plan to move to has. Do your own research on this and make sure that it correlates with the information that they tell you.

•Is the quote inclusive of all charges, for example destination port charges and destination customs and quarantine clearances? This is where a low quote from one company may not be such a great deal, if these charges are not included in their fee.

International Medical

Rarely do we give a thought of having adequate medical insurance coverage until we actually need it, and then it is often too late. Don't make the mistake of waiting, particularly when moving to a new country! One of the most important criteria when relocating to a new country is the accessibility and quality of medical care. Each person has individual health maintenance needs, but we recommend reducing the financial risk as a result of a terminal illness or accident which requires ongoing medical care.

Until you are comfortable utilizing the national or social health care system, buy a short-term international major medical policy. It is inexpensive and you can pay for it on a month to month basis. After you have relocated find a local doctor or primary physician you are comfortable with and review your medical needs. Many expatriates find adequate local medical care but still prefer an international health insurance policy which gives them the choice to choose any doctor they wish, including private hospitals and medical practitioners, as well as the option of returning to the US for medical treatment. Feel free to call us with your needs. We can also tell you if there are English speaking doctors at your destination along with their credentials. You can reach us toll free at 800.647.4589 with the US or Canada or 001.480.821.9052 worldwide. Feel free to email us at health@globalcitizeninsurance.com.

CANADA

Canada is our featured country. Not only did Vancouver host the 2010 Winter Olympics, but their Canadian Hockey team won the Gold Medal

Canada is the largest trade partner of the US, accounting for 20% of US exports (first place) and 16% of its imports (second place just after China).

Canada is an advanced economy. The country is a leader in biotechnology, chemistry, digital media and medical devices. Canada is also one of the largest exporters of agricultural products, plastics and automotive in the world. Visit Industry Canada to get more information about Canadian industry.

The country has a market of 33 million. Canadians are mature consumers: they benefit from a standard of living that is one of the highest in the world and they are aware of the problems of the environment and over-consumption. Natural and environment-friendly products are preferred.

To build your business with Canada, take a look at Canada Business, where you will find a lot of practical information such as “Starting a Business,” Import/export, Selling to the government, etc. And don't forget the website of the U.S. Commercial Service in Canada. The site gives extensive information about the market with news and guides, and it lists many conferences, trade missions and training sessions.

If that's not enough, you'll also find plenty of good research at the Canada Mini Portal, a feature of the FITA Web site. The Canadian Mini Portal has an overview of Canada, with facts about the language, currency, climate, etc., plus more specific information about the economy, markets, taxes, labor market indicators, and tips on doing business in Canada.

You can find Visa and Immigration information at Taking Up Residence which advises:

Citizenship & Immigration Canada (CIC) is the agency which oversees all applications for temporary and permanent residency. They work in conjunction with the Canadian consular agencies and embassies located worldwide (270 locations in 180 countries) where the process for immigrating to Canada begins.

Your country of origin will determine if you will need a visa. A list of countries requiring a visa is available on the CIC website. Even if you do not need a visa and intend to immigrate to Canada on either a temporary or permanent basis, you will need to start by visiting a Canadian consular agency or embassy in your home country. Keep in mind that permanent residency applications can only be submitted from your country of residence or nationality, or where you have lived legally for at least one year.

Permanent residency application processing times vary by circumstance and location. They can take from as little as five months up to 70 months. The CIC website provides a country-by-country average that can provide you with a better idea as to how long it may likely take to process your application.

The process and what types of documentation needed for filing permanent residency will depend upon which type of application you file: skilled worker, business, or family. The procedures, steps, and fees for each of these are clearly outlined on the CIC website. In some situations, you may be able to initiate the process online. Another useful website which can answer many questions regarding the Canadian immigration process is Going to Canada.

Medical care is socialized and the Medicare system is adminstered by each province. I've heard mixed reviews of the quality of care including long waiting periods. Individuals can supplement their national health care benefits which can help reduce waiting periods for critical medical care as well as giving you the option to choose your own doctor. Our Global Citizen International Health Insurance plan covers US Citizens in Canada and gives you the freedom to choose a private physician or medical hospital or return to the US to receive quality medical care. Call us at 800.647.4589 for a free quote.