Employment Laws and Policies

Main law:
Labor Code of Turkmenistan (2009, with amendments)
Law on Occupational Safety and Health

📄 Employment Contracts
Written contracts are mandatory.
Contracts must specify job title, duties, salary, work hours, conditions, leave entitlements, and termination provisions.
Types:
Indefinite-term contract (default type)
Fixed-term contract (allowed where justified, e.g., project work)

🕰 Working Hours
Standard: 40 hours/week
Overtime: Allowed in limited circumstances; paid at increased rates as per Labor Code

🌴 Leave Entitlements
Annual leave: Minimum 24 calendar days
Sick leave: Paid by employer, rates depend on employment history and collective agreements
Maternity leave: 112 calendar days (70 before + 42 after birth), paid via social fund/employer
Paternity leave: Not specifically legislated, but unpaid leave may be granted
Public holidays: ~10 national holidays

💸 Payroll, Taxes & Contributions
Personal income tax: Flat 10% on salaries
Employer contributions:
Social security fund: ~20% (for pensions, social insurance)
Other local fees may apply
Employee contributions: Minimal; mostly covered by employer payments
Payroll is processed in TMT; payments must be made to government agencies on time to avoid penalties.

🏥 Health & Safety
Employers must provide:
A safe working environment
Health and safety training
Mandatory medical checks (especially for hazardous roles)

⚠ Termination & Severance
Notice period:
2 weeks to 2 months depending on reason (e.g., redundancy requires 2 months’ notice)
Severance:
Minimum 2 weeks to 3 months’ average earnings (depending on length of service and reason for termination)
Termination must follow the procedures under the Labor Code and often requires notifying or seeking approval from state bodies.

⚖ Non-Discrimination
Labor Code prohibits discrimination based on sex, race, nationality, language, origin, property or official status, place of residence, religion, political beliefs, or other factors not related to professional qualities.