Minimum wage in Malawi
The lowest monthly pay an employer may legally give, by type of worker, and what to do if you are paid less.
- General: K157,500
- Domestic: K83,720
- Rise: 25%
Quick answer: From 1 June 2026 the minimum wage for general workers in towns and rural areas is K157,500 a month, up from K126,000. Domestic workers must get at least K83,720 and workers in micro and small enterprises K131,250. Truck drivers have their own rates, up to K410,375. Paying less is an offence under the Employment Act. Report it to your District Labour Office.
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Minimum wage by type of worker
Monthly, as announced by the Ministry of Labour, Skills and Innovation. Most groups rose 25%; domestic workers 15%.
Shops and medium-sized businesses have their own rates, and large retailers with a turnover of K500 million or more pay more than the general rate. Check the exact figure for your workplace with your District Labour Office.
Do you pay PAYE on the minimum wage?
No, at the general rate. The first K170,000 a month is tax free (see our PAYE bands guide).
No PAYE due
- Domestic workers, K83,720
- Micro and small enterprises, K131,250
- General workers, K157,500
PAYE due
- Local drivers 30 t+, K293,125: K36,938 PAYE
- International drivers, K410,375: K72,112 PAYE
- Truck drivers under 30 t, K175,875: K1,762 PAYE
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What the Employment Act says
From the Employment Act (Cap. 55:01).
A collective agreement or your contract can pay more than the minimum, never less.
What to do if you are paid below the minimum
The Ministry of Labour’s labour officers handle wage complaints. It costs nothing.
- 1
Keep your proof
Payslips, your contract or letter of appointment, and mobile money or bank records of what you were paid.
- 2
Raise it with your employer
Many employers simply have not updated pay since 1 June 2026. Ask in writing if you can.
- 3
Go to the District Labour Office
In your district council area. A labour officer can inspect the workplace and order back pay.
- 4
Industrial Relations Court
If it is not settled, the labour officer can refer the complaint to the court.
Minimum wage FAQ
What is the minimum wage in Malawi in 2026?
K157,500 a month for general workers in urban and rural areas, from 1 June 2026. Domestic workers: K83,720. Micro and small enterprises: K131,250.
What is the minimum wage for domestic workers?
K83,720 a month from 1 June 2026, up from K72,800.
When did the new minimum wage start?
1 June 2026. The Ministry of Labour, Skills and Innovation announced it in May 2026.
How much is the minimum wage for truck drivers?
K410,375 a month on international routes driving 30 tonnes and over, K293,125 on local routes at 30 tonnes and over, and K175,875 for vehicles under 30 tonnes.
Is the minimum wage taxed?
Not at the general rate. PAYE starts above K170,000 a month, so K157,500 pays no PAYE.
Can my employer pay me less if they give me food or housing?
The Employment Act says minimum wages cannot be reduced. Ask your District Labour Office if your employer counts food or housing as part of your pay.
How often does the minimum wage change?
The law says it must be reviewed at least every three years. In practice it has changed more often: June 2025 and again in June 2026.
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GuideEmbassies abroadChecked contacts, travel documentsSources: Ministry of Labour, Skills and Innovation, Employment (Minimum Wages) (Amendment) Order, 2026, as reported by The Nation and Nyasa Times; Employment Act (Ministry of Labour) and the consolidated Act on MalawiLII; PAYE bands from MRA.
