Dhaka: The Jatiya Sangsad today passed a bill fixing the maximum age limit at 32 years for direct appointment in government, autonomous and statutory bodies, public non-financial corporations, and self-governing bodies of the country. This marks the first bill passed by the 13th parliament.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the bill titled ‘Maximum Age Limit for Direct Appointment in Government, Autonomous, Statutory Government Authorities, Public Non-Financial Corporations and Self-Governing Bodies Act, 2026’ was introduced by State Minister for Public Administration Md. Abdul Bari. The bill responds to demands for increasing the age limit for entry into government service, addressing a necessity that led to the previous ordinance in 2024, which initially raised the age limit to 32 years.
Previously, some existing appointment rules had age limits set at 33, 35, 40, and even 45 years. The ordinance’s promulgation reduced these age limits to 32 years, which created complications in the appointment processes. To address these issues, an amendment was made in 2025, leading to the formulation of the current act.
The bill emphasizes the need for such legislation in Bangladesh, reflecting practices in neighboring countries. It also highlights how increasing the age limit could enhance job opportunities for educated unemployed youth, potentially aiding in resolving the country’s unemployment problem. Additionally, it is expected to have positive effects on the labor market and economy.
The recruitment process is already underway, with the Bangladesh Public Service Commission (BPSC) issuing a circular maintaining the 32-year age limit for direct recruitment to the Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS). The State Minister emphasized the necessity of turning the ordinance into law, culminating in the bill’s passage by voice vote.