Worker Rights
If you work in Bangladesh, the Bangladesh Labour Act 2006 protects your wages, working hours, leave, and job security. Your employer must pay you on time, can only deduct wages for reasons allowed by law, must give notice before terminating a permanent worker, and must grant annual, sick, and festival leave.
When must my employer pay my wages?
Your employer must pay wages on time and in full, within the wage period fixed by law — generally before the end of the seventh working day after the period ends. Wages cannot be withheld arbitrarily. Deductions are only lawful for specific reasons set out in the Labour Act, such as authorised fines, absence, or recovery of advances — not as punishment at the employer’s discretion.
Source: Bangladesh Labour Act 2006
Can I be fired without notice?
Generally no. To terminate a permanent worker, an employer must give written notice — 120 days for monthly-rated workers and 60 days for others — or pay wages in lieu of that notice. Termination must follow the procedure in the Labour Act; otherwise it may be unlawful. Dismissal for misconduct is different and requires a formal inquiry before any action is taken.
Source: Bangladesh Labour Act 2006, s. 26
What leave am I entitled to?
Workers are entitled to paid leave under the Labour Act, including annual (earned) leave, sick leave, casual leave, and festival holidays. The exact number of days depends on your industry and length of service, but these leaves cannot be denied outright. Many workers are also entitled to a weekly holiday, and eligible women workers to maternity benefit.
Source: Bangladesh Labour Act 2006