Public Servants Can Now Work Until Age 75 Under New Law

New regulations extending the public service employment age to 75 have been officially gazetted and are now in effect. The law, implemented by the Ministry of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development, creates a legal framework for re-employing state employees up to the age of 75. The amendment was passed by the Maldivian Parliament on January 5, 2026, and ratified by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on January 8. It sets out eligibility criteria and procedural requirements for the re-employment policy. The law applies to individuals currently or previously employed in the public service, excluding members of the armed forces, police, judges, and persons appointed under the Constitution or other specific laws. Under the new rules, state employees may continue working beyond the pensionable age of 65, up to a maximum of 75. It also allows for the re-employment of individuals who were required to retire upon reaching age 65 in the seven years preceding the law's enactment. Applicants must have at least 13 months remaining before their 75th birthday. Employees must inform their employer six months in advance if they wish to continue working after age 65. Employers are required to make a decision within two months of receiving such notification. Re-employment will be on a 12-month contract, renewable annually. The government states the amendment aims to enable experienced and skilled individuals to continue contributing to national development after reaching retirement age.