Working Hours and Holidays in Norway

Regulations for Working Hours 

Chapter 10 of the Working Environment Act contains rules about working hours. If you hold a managerial position or a very independent job, not all of these rules apply to you. Working hours can alos be regulated through regulations, collective agreements and employment contracts. , and case law. 

• The Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority provides guidance on the Working Environment Act’s rules on working hours.

Standard Working Hours 

The Working Environment Act states that standard working hours are a maximum of 9 hours per day and 40 hours per week. Many workplaces have agreed on 37.5 hours per week. There are special rules for shift work.  

Average Calculation of Working Hours 

Sometimes you can work more than 40 hours in one week, but then you must work correspondingly less in other weeks.

Overtime

The employer can ask you to work overtime if there is a special need. For overtime, you should receive at least 40 percent extra pay. Many workplaces have their own agreements on overtime pay. 

• The Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority provides guidance on the Working Environment Act’s rules on overtime.

Holidays 

Everyone is entitled to at least 25 working days of holiday each year. Since Saturday counts as a working day, this means you are entitled to four weeks and one day of holiday each year. 

• Read more about the right to holidays on the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority’s website.