Egypt has officially launched a new labor law, replacing Law No. 12 of 2003, with effect from August 2025. Published on May 3, 2025, the new labor law introduces progressive reforms and new institutional mechanisms for resolving Labor disputes, ensuring workers’ rights, and regulating emerging employment models. The new legal framework emphasizes specificity and forward-thinking policy, structuring its provisions across more than 300 articles.
Key Features and Article References
- Clear Definitions and Employment Scope
Article 1 of the new labor law defines key terms such as ‘worker,’ ’employer,’ and ‘apprentice.’ It clearly specifies the categories of individuals covered by the law and identifies those excluded, including civil servants, domestic workers, and related groups.
- Gender Equality and Protection against Dismissal
Female employees are protected from dismissal during pregnancy and maternity leave. This strengthens job security and aligns with international labor conventions.
- Breastfeeding Breaks and Maternal Support
The law grants women two paid breastfeeding breaks per day for two years following childbirth, counting these breaks as part of official working hours.
- Incorporation of Modern Work Models
For the first time, Egypt’s new labor law code recognizes remote work, freelancing, and platform-based employment. These “non-traditional patterns” now enjoy legal backing.
- Training and Post-Training Commitment
When a company finances an employee’s training, the employee must remain with the company for a specified period or reimburse the training costs, unless an alternative agreement is in place.
- Joint Liability in Contracting Chains
A primary contractor becomes jointly liable for workers employed by any subcontractor operating in the same location. This prevents exploitation via outsourcing.
- Access to Justice: Labor Courts and Fee Exemptions
The law mandates the creation of specialized labor courts to expedite dispute resolution. Importantly, workers are exempt from judicial fees in employment-related litigation.
- Promotion of Social Dialogue and Collective Representation
The government is establishing a new institutional body, the High Council for Social Dialogue, to promote cooperative labor policymaking among the state, employers, and workers.
Transitional Provisions and Implementation Timeline
- Law Enforceability: Effective from August 2025 (90 days post-publication).
- Labor Courts: Functional as of October 2025.
- Ministerial Regulations: To be issued within 90 days of the law taking effect.
Conclusion
Egypt’s New Labor Law for 2025 marks a pivotal step in advancing employment rights and adapting the legal framework to the realities of a changing economy. By reinforcing protections for women, integrating modern work structures, and expanding judicial accessibility, the law ensures more balanced industrial relations and fairer treatment across the board.
This article offers a general overview of the subject matter and is not a substitute for legal advice. For guidance tailored to your specific circumstances, professional consultation is recommended.
If you choose us to support your specific issue, please do not hesitate to contact us using Inquiries Form (link) or by sending an email to coop@youssrysaleh.com.
