Parliament Approves Increase of Paid Maternity Leave to Four Months
Pregnant employees will also benefit from reduced working hours starting from the sixth month of pregnancy.
The Parliament of Egypt has approved a new amendment to the labour law, increasing paid maternity leave from three to four months.
Under the new provision, women are entitled to a minimum of 45 days post-delivery leave, with up to three maternity leaves allowed throughout their service. Pregnant employees will also benefit from reduced working hours starting from the sixth month of pregnancy, without the obligation for overtime until six months after childbirth.
The amendment ensures job security during and after maternity leave, prohibiting employers from terminating employment during this period unless under lawful conditions. Breastfeeding mothers are also entitled to two additional breaks, each lasting no less than 30 minutes, which are counted as part of their working hours without affecting their wages.
Additional provisions in the law require employers with over 100 female workers to provide childcare services, either by establishing nurseries or partnering with existing facilities.
