Overtime Pay in Zambia: Your Rights Under the Employment Code Act
Working beyond normal hours in Zambia? You are entitled to overtime pay under the Employment Code Act 2019. Here is the rate, how to calculate it, and how to claim it.
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Direct Answer
The Employment Code Act 2019 sets the maximum normal working hours at 45 hours per week (8 hours per day, 5 days). Any hours beyond this entitle you to overtime pay at a rate of not less than 1.5 times your basic hourly rate for weekday overtime, and 2 times for work on rest days and public holidays. If your employer is not paying overtime, report to the Labour Commissioner — free.
What the Law Says
Your Legal Foundation
Employment Code Act 2019 (Act No. 3 of 2019)
Section 30
“The normal hours of work of an employee shall not exceed eight hours in a day or forty-five hours in a week.”
Employment Code Act 2019
Section 31
“An employer shall pay an employee who works in excess of the normal hours of work overtime at a rate of not less than one and a half times the employee's hourly rate.”
Employment Code Act 2019
Section 32
“An employee who works on a rest day or public holiday shall be paid at a rate of not less than twice the employee's hourly rate.”
What to Do
Step-by-Step Guide
1Track your hours daily. Keep a personal record of your start and end times each day, including any breaks. Normal hours are 8 per day / 45 per week — anything beyond this is overtime.
2Calculate what you are owed. Hourly rate = monthly basic salary ÷ (45 × 52 ÷ 12). Overtime on weekdays = hourly rate × 1.5. Rest day or public holiday work = hourly rate × 2.
3Put it in writing to your employer. Email or write to HR stating the dates and hours of overtime not paid and the amount owed. This creates a record and gives your employer a chance to correct it before you escalate.
4If not resolved within a reasonable time, file a complaint at your nearest Labour Office. The Labour Commissioner has the power to order payment of outstanding overtime. The process is free.
What to Say
Exact Words to Use
“"I have worked [X] hours of overtime during [period] for which I have not been compensated at the rate of 1.5 times my basic hourly rate as required under Section 31 of the Employment Code Act 2019. I request payment of the outstanding amount of ZMW [amount] within five working days."”
Tone: Written — to your employer or payroll department
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my employer force me to work overtime in Zambia?
The Employment Code Act 2019 permits employers to require overtime but limits total hours. Excessive compulsory overtime that compromises health and safety can be challenged. Any overtime worked — voluntary or compelled — must be paid at the statutory rate.
My contract says overtime is included in my salary — is that legal in Zambia?
A contractual clause purporting to waive overtime pay is void to the extent it conflicts with the Employment Code Act 2019. The Act sets a floor — you are entitled to overtime pay for hours worked beyond the statutory limits regardless of what your contract says.
I am a domestic worker — do I have overtime rights in Zambia?
Yes. The Employment Code Act 2019 covers domestic workers. Your normal hours should not exceed 45 per week and overtime must be paid at the statutory rates.
Get Help Now
Resources & Helplines
Labour Commissioner Zambia
Nearest Labour Office
Report unpaid overtime — free, offices in all provinces.