Mozambique raises mandatory retirement age for public servants

The Mozambican government has ordered the immediate implementation of a new mandatory retirement age for all state employees and agents. The age limit has been increased from 60 to 65 years, following a revision of the General Statute of Civil Servants and State Agents (EGFAE) approved by the Assembly of the Republic and promulgated by the President.

In a circular signed by the Minister of State Administration and Public Function, Inocêncio Impissa, state entities have been instructed to immediately initiate retirement processes for all professionals who have already reached the new age threshold. Under the new legal regime, the retirement process will become automatic.

The legislation includes specific exceptions for strategic sectors. Professionals in certain careers, such as diplomats, teachers, university assistants, specialist doctors, magistrates, and researchers, may have their retirement age extended to 70 years. Those in these categories have 45 days from August 14 to submit requests for extension.

Additionally, the law allows for exceptions based on public interest. If the continued presence of an employee over 65 is deemed indispensable for the normal functioning of a service, the institution's top official may request their continuity. Such requests must be formalized with the ministry overseeing public function by September 27, 2026.