Overview: Social Insurance in Egypt
Social Insurance Law No. 148 of 2019 replaced the older Law 79/1975 and governs the national social insurance system administered by the National Organization for Social Insurance (NOSI). All private sector employees in Egypt must be registered and covered.
Contribution Rates
| Party | Rate | Applied To |
|---|---|---|
| Employer | 18.75% | Gross insurable wage |
| Employee | 11% | Gross insurable wage |
| Total | 29.75% |
The insurable wage is subject to annual minimum and maximum ceilings set by government decree. Contributions on wages above the ceiling are not required.
What Social Insurance Covers
- Old-age pension: Monthly pension upon retirement (age 60 for men, 55 for women)
- Disability pension: If employee becomes unable to work
- Survivors pension: For dependents upon employee death
- Work injury insurance: Full salary replacement during work injury recovery
- Unemployment insurance: Partial income replacement for involuntary unemployment
Employer Registration Obligations
Employers must register with NOSI before hiring any employee. Each new employee must be added to the NOSI records on or before their first day of work.
Required registration documents typically include: commercial registration, tax registration, company establishment documents, and employee national ID with birth certificate.
Monthly Payment Process
NOSI contributions (both employer and employee shares) must be remitted by the 15th of the following month. Payment is made through designated banks or NOSI payment portals.
Non-Compliance Consequences
- Financial penalties on late or missing contributions
- Personal liability for company directors in cases of deliberate evasion
- Back-payment demands with interest for unregistered employees
- Inability to obtain government clearance certificates needed for contracts and tenders
Practical Notes for Foreign Companies
Foreign companies using Staffona's managed employment service have all NOSI registration and monthly contributions handled automatically. Employees receive a physical NOSI card and full coverage from day one, with no action required from the foreign employer.