Egypt’s sick leave law provides employees with sickness benefits from the National Authority for Social Insurance (NASI) after the employer pays salary for the initial absence period. The system is governed by the Social Insurance Law No. 148/2019 and the Labour Law No. 12/2003.
Key Takeaways
- Employers pay full salary for the first period of illness (typically 1–3 months depending on tenure)
- NASI pays sickness benefit at 75% of the contribution salary after the employer period
- A medical certificate from a NASI-approved doctor is required from day 1
- For occupational illness, the benefit is 100% from day 1
- The maximum NASI benefit period depends on contribution years
Egypt’s Sick Leave Entitlement
Egypt’s sick leave system operates under the Social Insurance Law (No. 148/2019) and the Labour Law (No. 12/2003). When an employee falls ill, the employer pays salary for the initial period, and NASI takes over with sickness benefits.
The employer’s paid period depends on the employee’s tenure with the employer. The NASI benefit is calculated at 75% of the contribution salary and lasts for a period determined by the employee’s contribution history.
Who Pays for Sick Leave?
| Period | Pay Rate | Who Pays |
|---|---|---|
| Employer period (1–3 months) | 100% of salary | Employer |
| NASI benefit (after employer period) | 75% of contribution salary | NASI |
| Occupational illness | 100% from day 1 | NASI |
Sick Leave Pay Rates
| Period | Pay Rate | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Employer period | 100% of salary | Labour Law |
| NASI sickness benefit | 75% of contribution salary | Social Insurance Law |
| Maximum NASI benefit | Up to 3 years (depending on contributions) | Social Insurance Law |
The contribution salary is the salary on which social insurance contributions are calculated. It may differ from the employee’s actual take-home pay.
Medical Certificate Requirements
Egypt requires a medical certificate from a NASI-approved doctor from the first day of illness. The certificate must specify:
- The date of examination
- The expected duration of the absence
- The diagnosis
The employee must present the certificate to the employer and NASI. For NASI claims, the certificate must be from a NASI-designated medical facility.
How to Calculate Sick Pay in Egypt
Example: An employee earning EGP 10,000/month is off sick for 90 calendar days.
- Employer period (30 days): EGP 10,000
- NASI benefit (60 days): EGP 10,000 × 0.75 ÷ 30 × 60 = EGP 15,000
Total paid: EGP 10,000 (employer) + EGP 15,000 (NASI) = EGP 25,000
Employer Obligations and Penalties
Egyptian employers must:
- Pay salary during the employer period
- Register employees with NASI
- Maintain medical certificates on file
- Cooperate with NASI for benefit verification
- Maintain records for at least 5 years
Non-compliance can result in fines from the National Authority for Social Insurance and potential labour court proceedings.
Comparison With Other Countries
| Country | Sick Days | Pay | Certificate Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Egypt | Employer period + NASI | 100% / 75% | Day 1 |
| UK | 28 weeks SSP | £116.75/week | Day 7 |
| Australia | 10 days personal/carer’s leave | Full rate | 2+ consecutive days |
| US | Varies by state | Varies | Employer policy |
FAQ
How long does the employer’s paid period last?
The employer’s paid period depends on the employee’s tenure. For employees with less than 1 year of service, it is typically 1 month. For employees with 1–10 years of service, it may extend to 3 months. The specific terms depend on the employment contract and applicable regulations.
Can NASI benefits be extended beyond the standard period?
Yes, in exceptional circumstances. NASI may extend benefits beyond the standard period for employees with serious or chronic conditions. The extension requires medical justification and is assessed by NASI’s medical committee.
What is the difference between ordinary illness and occupational illness?
Ordinary illness is a non-work-related condition. Occupational illness is caused by or aggravated by the employee’s work. For occupational illness, NASI pays 100% of the contribution salary from day 1, with no employer waiting period.
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