Sick leave

Sick leave in Egypt is governed by Egyptian labour law and entitles workers to paid time off due to illness. The maximum entitlement is 180 days per year, whether taken as continuous or intermittent periods. A competent physician must determine the actual duration of leave required for each absence, but the total cannot exceed 180 days in any calendar year.

The right to sick leave is established under Egyptian employment legislation, which sets out the conditions and compensation framework for workers unable to work due to medical reasons. The competent physician—typically a doctor designated by the employer or a state medical authority—certifies the need for leave and specifies its duration on a case-by-case basis.

During sick leave, workers retain their right to compensation. The law distinguishes between different categories of sick leave: the first 30 days per year are typically paid at full salary by the employer, while additional days may be subject to reduced compensation or other arrangements depending on the employment contract and collective agreements in place.

Employers in Egypt must maintain records of all sick leave taken by employees, including medical certificates or physician statements supporting each absence. Payroll teams should track cumulative sick days against the 180-day annual ceiling to ensure compliance. Medical documentation must be retained for audit purposes. Employers cannot refuse legitimate sick leave supported by competent medical certification, nor can they penalise workers for taking authorised absences due to illness. Verification of medical certificates and coordination with occupational health services helps prevent abuse while protecting worker rights.