ARTICLE
19 January 2026

Ministerial Decree No. 279 Of 2025 Regulating Licensing And Employment Of Foreign Workers In Egypt

AT
Al Tamimi & Company

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Applies to all sectors and exemptions may be granted by the competent authority. Foreign workers must obtain a work permit and be duly admitted and resident for work; employers cannot employ foreigners without a permit.
Egypt Employment and HR
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Requirements

  • Applies to all sectors and exemptions may be granted by the competent authority.
  • Foreign workers must obtain a work permit and be duly admitted and resident for work; employers cannot employ foreigners without a permit.
  • Exemptions from the permit include specified categories such as diplomats, international organization staff, foreign journalists, unpaid clergy, certain seafarers, war graves staff, research experts, and licensed investors.
  • Employers using exempt foreigners must notify the competent Labor Directorate within seven days of commencement and termination.
  • Prohibitions include tour guiding and export/customs clearance activities, with a stated exception for Palestinians regarding the latter.
  • Foreign worker cap is 10% of Egyptian workforce per establishment, with exceptions for free zones, small establishments, and committee-approved cases.
  • Permit duration is up to one year; fee schedule escalates by year; higher fee applies where cap exceptions are granted; authority may reduce fees or extend duration.
  • Certain nationalities and treaty-covered foreigners are exempt from permit fees pursuant to reciprocity.
  • Short-duration assignments up to 14 days require prior approval and a fee equal to 10% of wages for the assignment, subject to minimum and maximum caps; possible fee waiver.
  • Renewals must be requested before expiry.
  • Permit cancellation grounds exist.
  • Employers must maintain a foreign labor register and submit periodic reports and data to labor authorities.
  • Foreign workers enjoy labor rights and protections; employers are prohibited from passport retention and discriminatory practices; authorities must facilitate access to permits and remedies.

Impact on Employers

Penalties may be imposed for non-adherence to the above.

Recommended Actions

  • Designate a Compliance Liaison within HR or Legal to coordinate and adhere to all statutory requirements and to monitor updates or additional implementing instructions.
  • Review Ongoing and Recent Issuances to confirm compliance.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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