What are the regulations on Working Hours in Finland?

In Finland, working hours are governed by the Employment Contracts Act, which establishes clear guidelines to ensure a balanced work-life environment.


1. Standard Working Hours

The Employment Contracts Act stipulates that:

  • Maximum Working Hours: Employees should not exceed 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week.

This framework is designed to promote healthy work-life balance and prevent excessive workloads.


2. Overtime Work Regulations

Overtime is permissible under Finnish law, but it is also regulated to protect employee rights:

  • Maximum Overtime: Employees may work a maximum of 250 hours of overtime per year.


3. Compensation for Overtime

Compensation for overtime is structured to ensure fair pay for additional hours worked:

  • During the Week:

    • For the first 2 hours of overtime in a day, employees are entitled to receive 150% of their regular salary or an equivalent amount of time off.
    • For any overtime hours beyond the initial 2, employees earn 200% of their regular salary or can choose time off.

  • On Sundays: Overtime worked on Sundays is compensated at 200% of the regular salary. This higher rate acknowledges the significance of Sunday as a day of rest for many employees.

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