Every worker in Pakistan has legal rights that employers must respect. Understanding your rights regarding maternity leave, overtime, benefits, and termination is essential for protecting yourself at work. This guide from Roziwala explains the key employee rights in Pakistan [citation:3][citation:7].
## Maternity Leave Rights
Maternity leave is a critical right for working women in Pakistan. The federal jurisdiction provides 180 days of paid maternity leave for the first birth, 120 days for the second child, and 90 days for the third child [citation:3][citation:7]. Provincial legislation typically provides 12-16 weeks of paid maternity leave [citation:3].
### Protected Periods
Termination is typically prohibited during maternity leave. Employers who violate this may face labor court proceedings and potential reinstatement orders [citation:3].
## Paternity Leave Rights
Paid paternity leave is available only in the federal jurisdiction — 30 days. In Punjab, certain workers are entitled to 7 days of paternity leave [citation:3][citation:7].
## Overtime Rights
Any hours worked in excess of the standard shift are considered overtime, for which the worker is entitled to twice their ordinary rate of pay [citation:3][citation:7].
### Hard Limits on Overtime
## Leave Entitlements
Pakistan mandates several categories of paid leave [citation:3][citation:7]:
## Social Security and Pensions
Employers must register with the Employees Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) and the relevant provincial social security body. These funds cover [citation:3]:
## Termination Rights
### Notice Period
During probation, notice is not legally required. Once an employee becomes permanent, the law requires 30 to 60 days written notice from either side [citation:3].
### Severance Pay
In certain establishments, where a worker resigns or is dismissed for any reason other than misconduct, they are generally entitled to a gratuity equivalent to 30 days wages per year of service [citation:7].
## Anti-Discrimination Rights
All provinces provide for equal pay for work of equal value for female and male workers [citation:7]. Disability discrimination is prohibited in all jurisdictions [citation:7].
## Harassment Protection
All employers must follow a Code of Conduct on protection from harassment, investigate complaints, and punish perpetrators [citation:7].
## Frequently Asked Questions
### How much maternity leave am I entitled to?
In the federal jurisdiction, 180 days for the first birth, 120 days for the second, and 90 days for the third. Provincial legislation typically provides 12-16 weeks [citation:3][citation:7].
### Can my employer fire me during maternity leave?
No, termination is typically prohibited during maternity leave. Employers who violate this may face legal consequences [citation:3].
### Am I entitled to overtime pay?
Yes, overtime is paid at double the normal rate. Hard limits apply: 3 overtime hours per day, 12 total hours per day, 60 hours per week [citation:3].
### What leave am I entitled to?
14 days earned leave after one year, 10 days casual leave, 8 days sick leave, and maternity/paternity leave as applicable [citation:3][citation:7].
### What is the notice period for termination?
Permanent employees are entitled to 30-60 days written notice. Probationary employees may not have a statutory notice requirement [citation:3].
## Useful Resources
## External References
https://www.payoneer.com
https://bsc.croneri.co.uk