Arbitrary Dismissal & End-of-Service in Iraq: Your Rights (2026)
Federal Iraq under Labour Law 37/2015: restricted termination grounds, two-weeks/year gratuity, 30-day notice, and the Service Termination Committee vs labour court route.
In federal Iraq, termination by the employer is tightly restricted to a closed list of grounds, and a fault-based dismissal generally requires a written warning and a repeat. End-of-service gratuity is reported at two weeks' wage per year of service. Notice is at least 30 days (or pay in lieu). Disputes go to a Service Termination Committee or the labour court (choosing one forfeits the other), with a 30-day challenge window and the burden of proof on the employer.
FAQ
How much is end-of-service gratuity in Iraq?
Reported at two weeks' wage per year of continuous service under Labour Law No. 37 of 2015, plus unused leave; it is forfeited in gross-misconduct dismissals. Verify against the official text. The Kurdistan Region has no statutory severance.
What is the notice period in Iraq?
At least 30 days before the termination date, or compensation equal to the notice-period wage; 7 days during probation. Iraq tightly restricts employer-initiated termination to a closed list of grounds.
Where do I challenge a dismissal in Iraq?
Within 30 days, before either a Service Termination Committee or the labour court — choosing one forfeits the other. The burden of proving a lawful dismissal is on the employer, and the court should rule within 30 days.