Egypt’s Ministerial Decree No. 279 Sets Limit for Foreign Workers in New Framework
At the end of December 2025, Ministerial Decree No. 279 of 2025 went into force in Egypt, introducing a framework for the employment of foreign nationals in the country. The actual provisions for the employment of foreign workers exist in Labour Law No. 14 of 2025.
The decree limits the number of foreign workers employed within a company to 10% of its total workforce. It also lays out the procedures, conditions, and fees for the issuance, renewal, amendment, and cancellation of work permits. Additionally, it sets a new cap of £100,000 EGP (~$2,130 USD) on permit fees and mandates electronic payments made in the name of the foreign worker to be hired.
Short-term or task-based work is limited to a maximum of 14 days, subject to prior approval and a dedicated fee structure. Exceptions exist for smaller companies, and the decree makes those more clear.
Foreign nationals cannot work without a valid work permit and residence, but certain categories are exempt from the work permit requirement, including diplomats, international organization staff, foreign journalists, and certain investors. And specific roles are not available to foreign nationals such as tour guides and export/customs clearance roles.
The decree imposes reporting and record-keeping obligations on employers who hire foreign nationals, and they include notification timelines for hiring, termination, and employee absences. Workforce reporting is also mandatory on a periodic basis.
Source: Littler
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