Zambia Rights Guide

Employer Has Not Paid My Wages in Zambia: Your Rights

The Employment Code Act 2019 requires employers to pay wages on the agreed date. Report unpaid wages to the Labour Commissioner — free. Minimum wage is enforced by law.

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Direct Answer

The Employment Code Act 2019 requires your employer to pay your wages on the agreed date and in full. If your wages have been withheld or underpaid, file a free complaint with the nearest Labour Commissioner. You are entitled to your full wages, and employers who withhold wages may face criminal prosecution.

What the Law Says

Your Legal Foundation

Employment Code Act 2019

Section 67

“Wages shall be paid at the agreed intervals, in full, and shall not be reduced without the employee's written consent.”

Employment Code Act 2019

Section 68

“No employer shall make deductions from the wages of an employee except in accordance with the provisions of this Act or with the employee's written consent.”

Minimum Wages and Conditions of Employment Act

General

“Every employer must pay employees not less than the applicable minimum wage as determined by Statutory Instrument for their sector.”

What to Do

Step-by-Step Guide

1Put it in writing. Write to your employer stating the months unpaid, the amounts owed, and requesting payment within 7 days. Keep a copy.
2File a complaint with the Labour Commissioner. Visit the nearest Labour Office with your contract, payslips, and evidence of non-payment. A Labour Officer will summon your employer. Free.
3Conciliation is held between you and your employer. If agreement is reached, a settlement is recorded. If not, the matter goes to the Industrial Relations Court.
4Criminal prosecution: Wilful non-payment of wages is an offence under the Employment Code Act. The Labour Commissioner can recommend prosecution.

What to Say

Exact Words to Use

“"My wages for [period] totalling K[amount] have not been paid as required by Section 67 of the Employment Code Act 2019. I require payment within 7 days or I will file a complaint with the Labour Commissioner."”

Tone: Written — to your employer

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum wage in Zambia?

Minimum wages in Zambia are set by Statutory Instrument and vary by sector. The general minimum wage is updated periodically by the government. Contact the nearest Labour Office for the current applicable minimum for your sector.

My employer is deducting money from my wages without explanation — what can I do?

Unauthorised deductions are illegal under Section 68 of the Employment Code Act. The only permitted deductions are tax, National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) contributions, and amounts specifically agreed to in writing. Report unauthorised deductions to the Labour Commissioner.

My NAPSA contributions are being deducted but not remitted — what can I do?

Report directly to the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) at 0211-251 522. Failure to remit pension contributions is a serious offence. You can check your NAPSA contributions online at napsa.co.zm.

I am a domestic worker — do I have the same wage rights?

Yes. The Employment Code Act covers domestic workers. They are entitled to minimum wage, regular payment, and written terms of employment. Domestic workers can file wage complaints at the Labour Office.

Get Help Now

Resources & Helplines

Labour Commissioner — Ministry of Labour
Visit nearest Labour Office
Free wage complaint processing. Offices nationwide.
NAPSA (National Pension Scheme Authority)
0211-251 522 / napsa.co.zm
Report non-remittance of pension contributions.
Industrial Relations Court (IRC)
Lusaka and regional offices
Formal wage claims where conciliation has failed.
Legal Aid Board Zambia
0211-251 508
Free legal assistance.

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