Best Employment & Labor Lawyers in New Cairo

About Employment & Labor Law in New Cairo, Egypt

Employment and labor matters in New Cairo are governed primarily by Egypts national labor framework, which applies across all governorates including Cairo. That framework sets out rights and obligations for employers and employees on core topics such as contracts, working hours, wages, leave, social insurance and termination. While national law creates the baseline rules, contract terms, collective agreements and company policies can add additional rights or procedures so long as they do not reduce statutory protections. New Cairo is part of the broader Cairo administrative area, so practical steps like filing administrative complaints or attending local labor office sessions are handled by the local labor directorate and courts that serve the region.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Employment disputes can affect income, livelihood and future career prospects. You may need a lawyer if you face contested dismissal, unpaid wages or benefits, unlawful changes to your contract or job duties, discrimination or harassment, workplace injury or occupational health problems, disputes over overtime or holiday pay, problems with social insurance registration or contributions, or complications relating to hiring or employing foreign nationals. Lawyers who specialize in employment and labor law can explain your rights, represent you in negotiations and conciliation sessions, prepare and file claims with the labor office or labor courts, and advise on settlement offers or alternative dispute resolution.

Local Laws Overview

Employment contracts - Egyptian law recognises written and verbal contracts, but written contracts offer the greatest clarity and proof. Contracts may be for a fixed-term or indefinite duration; fixed-term contracts are allowed but are subject to specific rules and limits. Probation periods are common and usually specified in the contract.

Working hours and overtime - The law regulates normal working hours and requires payment for overtime and work on rest days or public holidays. The precise overtime rate can depend on national law and contract terms. Rest days, weekly leave and paid public holidays are protected by law.

Wages and payroll - Employers must pay agreed wages on time and provide wage statements. Minimum wage rules and sectoral regulations may apply. Social insurance contributions for employees and employers are mandatory and affect pension, health and other benefits.

Leave entitlements - Employees are entitled to annual paid leave, sick leave with medical certification and maternity leave for female employees. Additional types of leave may be provided by collective agreements or employer policy.

Health and safety - Employers have obligations to provide a safe workplace and to comply with occupational health and safety requirements. Work-related injuries and illnesses can give rise to compensation under social insurance rules and employer liability in some cases.

Termination and severance - Termination must comply with statutory procedures and contract terms. Notice periods, grounds for lawful dismissal, severance or indemnity rules and remedies for unfair dismissal are part of the legal scheme. Administrative conciliation via the labor office is typically required before proceeding to labour courts for many claims.

Collective relations - Trade unions and collective bargaining are regulated; collective agreements can set workplace standards above statutory minimums. Strikes and industrial action are subject to legal controls.

Foreign workers - Non-Egyptian employees must have appropriate work permits and residency authorization. Employers are usually responsible for securing permits and ensuring compliance with immigration-related requirements.

Dispute resolution - Most employment disputes begin with a complaint to the local labor office for conciliation. If conciliation fails, cases may proceed to labour courts. Time limits and formal filing requirements apply, so acting promptly is important.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my employment contract is valid?

A valid contract should clearly state the parties names, job title or duties, salary and payment terms, working hours, start date and contract duration if fixed-term. Written contracts are strongest evidence but verbal contracts can be enforceable. If a term conflicts with mandatory labour law provisions, the law will prevail. If you suspect the contract omits required items or contains unlawful clauses, have it reviewed by a specialist employment lawyer.

Can my employer change my salary or job duties without my consent?

Material changes to salary, major changes to duties or demotion usually require your consent or must follow the procedures in your contract and the law. Unilateral changes by the employer that worsen essential terms may amount to constructive dismissal or breach. Consult a lawyer before accepting changes or taking steps to challenge them.

What notice period do I or my employer have to give to terminate employment?

Notice periods depend on the contract and national rules. Contracts commonly specify notice periods for both employer and employee. Immediate dismissal may be allowed for serious misconduct, but otherwise notice or payment in lieu is normally required. Exact notice lengths should be checked in your contract and under applicable law.

Am I entitled to severance or compensation if I am dismissed?

Severance entitlements depend on the reason for dismissal, your length of service and the contract or collective agreement. Unlawful or unfair dismissal can result in compensation, reinstatement or indemnity. The specific remedy varies by case, so obtain legal advice to understand possible entitlements.

How can I recover unpaid wages or benefits?

Begin by collecting evidence - employment contract, payslips, bank statements, time records and written communications. Raise the issue with your employer in writing and keep copies. If the employer does not remedy the situation, file a complaint with the local labor office to seek conciliation. If conciliation fails, you may file a claim in the labour court with legal representation.

What rights do I have if I am pregnant or on maternity leave?

Pregnant employees are protected by law and entitled to maternity leave and certain protections against dismissal related to pregnancy or childbirth. Employers must not unlawfully discriminate or terminate employment for reasons related to pregnancy. The duration and pay for maternity leave are governed by national rules and social insurance provisions.

What should I do if I am injured at work?

Seek immediate medical attention and report the incident to your employer as soon as possible. Ensure the accident is recorded in the workplace accident register if available. You may be entitled to medical treatment and compensation through the social insurance system and, in some cases, additional employer liability claims. Keep all medical reports and witness statements and consult a lawyer experienced in workplace injury claims.

Can a foreign national legally work in New Cairo?

Yes, foreign nationals can work in Egypt but must hold the required work permit and residency authorization. Employers typically handle the permit process and must comply with immigration and labour regulations. Working without proper permits can lead to fines, deportation or other penalties for the employee and employer.

What are the normal working hours and how is overtime handled?

Normal working hours and rest-day entitlements are regulated by law and may be specified in your contract or collective agreement. Overtime work generally requires higher pay rates and may be limited by law. Check your contract and employer policies, and consult a lawyer if overtime is unpaid or required in breach of rules.

How long do I have to bring a labour claim?

There are statutory time limits for different types of labour claims, including unpaid wages, discrimination, and unfair dismissal. These limitation periods vary by claim and can be strict. To preserve your rights, gather evidence and seek legal advice promptly to ensure any claim is filed in time.

Additional Resources

Ministry of Manpower and Immigration - the national authority that sets and enforces many labour policies and issues work permits for foreign workers. Local labour directorate or labour office serving New Cairo - accepts complaints and runs conciliation procedures. Social Insurance Organization - handles contributions and social insurance benefits related to pensions, disability and work injury. Cairo Bar Association - for finding and contacting qualified lawyers and legal aid resources. Labour courts - adjudicate unresolved employment disputes after conciliation. Trade unions and sector-specific employer associations - for collective agreements and industry guidance. Embassies or consulates - for foreign nationals seeking assistance or information about visa and work permit rules. Legal aid clinics and non-governmental organisations that provide employment rights advice may be available for low-income claimants.

Next Steps

1. Gather documentation - collect your contract, payslips, attendance records, performance evaluations, any written communications with your employer and medical or accident reports if relevant. Keep copies and make a timeline of events.

2. Attempt internal resolution - raise your concern in writing with HR or management and request a clear response. Document every interaction.

3. Contact the local labour office - if internal resolution fails, file a complaint to open an official conciliation process. This is a common prerequisite before court proceedings.

4. Consult a specialised employment lawyer - look for a lawyer experienced in Egyptian labour law who can explain your legal options, potential remedies, costs and likely timeline. Ask about initial consultation fees and case handling processes.

5. Preserve evidence and act quickly - many claims are time-sensitive. Begin the process early to avoid losing rights under limitation periods.

6. Consider alternative dispute resolution - mediation or negotiated settlement can resolve disputes faster and with lower cost than court litigation. Your lawyer can advise whether settlement is appropriate.

7. Prepare for formal proceedings if needed - if conciliation fails and litigation is necessary, your lawyer will help prepare filings, represent you at hearings and protect your interests through the labour court process.

If you are unsure where to start, an initial consultation with a local employment lawyer or a visit to the New Cairo labour office can clarify your rights and the most effective next steps in your particular situation.