Over the past few weeks, many government employees have been anxious after seeing messages and documents circulating on social media claiming that the retirement age has been increased. For people close to superannuation, such news creates hope for some and confusion for others. To separate fact from rumor, it is important to look at what is officially decided and what is only under discussion.
This article provides a clear and factual explanation of the current retirement age in Pakistan and whether any increase is actually planned.
What Is the Current Official Position
As of February 2, 2026, the official retirement age for government employees in Pakistan remains 60 years. There has been no law, notification, or amendment approved to increase the retirement age to 62 or any other figure.
Employees continue to retire upon reaching the standard age of superannuation, and this rule is still being applied in practice.
Why There Is Confusion About Retirement Age
The confusion mainly started due to viral notifications and posts on social media. These documents claimed that the government had approved an increase in retirement age.
However, official authorities have clarified that:
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These documents were fake
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They contained forged signatures
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Reference numbers mentioned were fabricated
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No such notification was ever issued
Both the Finance Division and the Establishment Division have clearly rejected these claims.
Has the Government Discussed Increasing the Retirement Age
Yes, the idea has been discussed, but discussion does not mean approval.
At different times, policymakers have considered raising the retirement age to 62 years as a way to manage the growing pension burden on the national budget. The Finance Minister has publicly acknowledged that such proposals were reviewed.
However, it is important to understand:
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These were policy discussions only
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No final approval was given
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No implementation plan exists
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No timeline has been announced
At present, the idea remains only a proposal, not a decision.
Recent Retirements Confirm the Existing Rule
Official gazette notifications issued as recently as January 2026 show that officers across various departments are still retiring at 60 years of age.
If the retirement age had been increased, these retirements would not have taken place. This confirms that the existing rule is fully in effect.
Recent Change in Pension Policy (Important Clarification)
While the retirement age has not changed, there has been an important policy update related to pensions.
Under the new policy:
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Government employees rehired after retirement must choose either salary or pension
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They cannot receive both at the same time
This measure was introduced to reduce fiscal pressure but does not affect the retirement age itself.
Current Retirement Standards in Pakistan
Different categories of workers follow different retirement rules.
Federal and Civil Servants
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Retirement age: 60 years
EOBI (Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution)
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Men: 60 years
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Women: 55 years
Punjab Pension Reform
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Minimum retirement age: 55 years
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Condition: At least 25 years of service
These standards remain unchanged as of now.
Who Is Affected by These Clarifications
This clarification is especially important for:
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Employees nearing retirement
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Government officers planning extensions
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Families planning post-retirement finances
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Employees considering re-employment after retirement
Understanding the correct position helps avoid false expectations.
What Government Employees Should Do Now
Instead of relying on rumors, employees should take practical steps.
Practical Guidance
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Follow only official gazette notifications
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Ignore unverified social media documents
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Confirm information through department channels
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Plan retirement based on existing rules, not assumptions
Any real change will always be announced formally and publicly.
Common Confusion
Has the retirement age increased to 62 years?
No. The retirement age is still 60 years.
Are viral notifications real?
No. They have been officially declared fake.
Is the government planning a change soon?
There is no approved plan or timeline.
Does the pension policy change affect retirement age?
No. It only affects re-employment benefits.
Why Accurate Information Matters
Retirement decisions affect careers, finances, and family planning. Misinformation can lead to poor decisions, delayed planning, and unnecessary stress. That is why relying on verified and official sources is essential.
Conclusion
The answer is clear: the government has not increased the retirement age for employees in Pakistan. Despite discussions and rumors, the official retirement age remains 60 years, and all recent retirements confirm this position.
Government employees are advised to ignore unverified claims, follow official notifications, and plan their careers and retirement based on current, legally valid rules. Any future change, if approved, will be communicated openly and through proper channels.
