No, child labor under 14 is illegal in Egypt under the Child Law No. 12 of 2008 and its 2018 amendments. The National Council for Childhood and Motherhood (NCCM) enforces strict prohibitions, aligning with ILO Convention 138. Violations risk fines up to EGP 50,000 (≈$1,600) and criminal liability for employers. Recent 2026 compliance directives emphasize digital monitoring of hazardous work sectors.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in Egypt
- Absolute Prohibition: Labor under 14 is banned in all sectors, including agriculture and informal work, per Article 72 of the Child Law. Exemptions for “light work” require NCCM approval, limited to non-hazardous tasks for ages 12–13.
- Hazardous Work Ban: The 2018 amendments list 38 prohibited occupations (e.g., mining, construction) for minors under 18, enforced by the Ministry of Manpower and Immigration (MOMI).
- Documentation & Penalties: Employers must maintain age verification records; failure to comply triggers inspections by the MOMI’s Child Labor Unit, with penalties escalating under the 2025 Labor Law amendments.