Understanding Working Hours and Overtime in Hungary
In Hungary, the standard full-time workweek is 40 hours, typically distributed over five days with 8-hour workdays. However, flexibility exists, allowing daily working time to extend to 12 hours and weekly hours to 48, including overtime, through agreements with employers. For those in stand-by roles or relatives of owners, the limits can further extend to 12 or even 24 hours daily, and up to 72 hours weekly. This flexibility ensures that work schedules can meet both employee and employer needs while staying within legal boundaries.
Overtime is any work beyond the standard 8-hour day or 40-hour week. Hungarian labor law caps mandatory overtime at 250 hours annually, but this can extend to 300 hours through collective bargaining. Additionally, employees can voluntarily agree to an extra 150 hours, totaling 400 hours per year possible. Overtime compensation is regulated: 150% of the regular pay for weekdays, and 200% (double time) for work on weekends or public holidays. These provisions ensure fair remuneration for additional work while protecting workers from excessive demands.