Expanding your business and hiring in Hungary?
Familiarizing yourself with Hungary’s working hours regulations and labor laws is essential, particularly for employers entering the market or expanding their presence in Hungary.
These laws are designed to guarantee fair treatment, support work-life balance, and safeguard employee well-being. By complying with working hours and other employment standards, you can ensure adherence to regulations, avoid penalties, and cultivate a positive workplace culture.
Standard working hours in Hungary
In Hungary, the typical full-time workweek is 40 hours, spread across five days from Monday to Friday, which is in accordance with the standards followed across the European Union. However, there are some exceptions for specific industries and jobs.
The standard workday for office jobs usually starts between 8 AM and 9 AM and ends between 4 PM and 5 PM, with a 30-minute lunch break. For manual labor jobs, the workday might be longer, starting earlier and ending later.
Part-time employees work less than 40 hours per week, with consistent hours each week. The exact number of hours depends on the agreement between the employer and the employee.
Overtime regulations
In Hungary, overtime is governed by the Labour Code of 2012, which stipulates specific guidelines. Overtime is defined as any work performed beyond the standard 40 hours per week. Typically, employees are entitled to receive compensation of at least 150% of their regular hourly wage for overtime hours worked on weekdays. If overtime is performed on weekends or public holidays, the rate increases to 200%.
Employers may ask employees to work reasonable overtime, but empoyees have the right to refuse such requests under certain circumstances. Additionally, if an employee works more than the standard hours, they may choose to receive either overtime pay or compensatory time off.
Flexible working arrangements
Hungarian labor law provides for some flexibility in working arrangements, especially for employees with specific needs. While there isn’t a formal right to a four-day workweek, employers and employees can negotiate flexible arrangements to suit individual circumstances.
Employees can request flexible working arrangements after completing six months with the same employer, and this flexibility may involve adjustments to work hours, schedules, or locations to help balance personal and professional commitments.
Eligible employees typically include parents, caregivers, individuals with disabilities, those over 55, and anyone facing domestic violence. Workers with a fixed-term contract who have been employed for at least six months may also request flexible arrangements.
However, employers and employees can negotiate individual agreements to tailor working hours, ensuring that both parties benefit from the arrangement.
Breaks and rest periods
Hungarian labor law provides for breaks and rest periods during the workday. While the specific regulations can vary depending on the industry and the type of job, the general principles are as follows:
- Short breaks: Employees are typically entitled to short breaks of 10-15 minutes every two hours of work. These breaks are usually paid.
- Meal breaks: Employees who work more than six hours a day are entitled to a meal break of at least 30 minutes. This break is typically unpaid.
- Rest periods between shifts: Employees are generally entitled to a rest period of at least 11 hours between shifts. However, this can be reduced to 9 hours in certain circumstances, such as for shift work or in agreement with the employee.
It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and the specific rules and regulations can vary depending on the industry, the type of job, and the collective bargaining agreements in place.
Night work and shift work
Night work in Hungary is generally considered work performed between 10 PM and 6 AM. Employees who work night shifts are often entitled to additional compensation, such as higher hourly rates and night shift allowance.
Shift work, in general, involves working in rotating shifts, which can include night shifts. Employees who work shift work may be entitled to additional benefits or protections, such as
- Health and safety measures: Employers have a duty to ensure the health and safety of employees who work shift work. This includes providing adequate rest breaks, ergonomic workstations, and appropriate lighting.
- Limits on shift length: There may be limits on the length of shifts, especially for night shifts.
- Predictability of rosters: In some cases, employees may have a right to know their shift schedules in advance.
It’s important to note that the specific rules and regulations for night work and shift work can vary depending on the industry, the type of job, and the collective bargaining agreements in place.
Employees have the right to be informed about their shift work arrangements, including rosters and applicable penalties.
Part-time and minor employment
Part-time employees in Hungary work less than 40 hours per week. The specific number of hours can vary depending on the agreement between the employer and the employee. Part-time employees are generally entitled to the same rights as full-time employees, including paid holidays, sick leave, and access to social security benefits.
Hungary has specific laws that regulate the employment of minors. The minimum age for employment is 16, but there are exceptions for certain types of work, such as artistic or cultural activities.
There are also restrictions on the number of hours that minors can work, especially during school hours.
Compliance and penalties
In Hungary, employers are required to maintain accurate records of employee working hours. These records must be readily available for inspection by labor authorities. Failure to keep proper documentation can result in fines for non-compliance, which may vary based on the severity of the violation.
Employers must also adhere to specific labor laws, including those related to overtime, breaks, and rest periods. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, including financial fines and legal action.
Cultural considerations
Understanding Hungarian cultural nuances related to employment is crucial for fostering a productive workplace. Here are some key considerations:
While Hungarians value their work, they prioritize a healthy work-life balance. Respecting their time off and avoiding excessive demands for overtime is essential. Hungarian culture tends to be more hierarchical than in some Western cultures. Employees may be more deferential to their superiors and less inclined to question authority. There is a strong emphasis on efficiency and productivity. Hungarians generally expect tasks to be completed quickly and effectively.
Additionally, Hungary’s rich history and cultural background influence its workforce. Hungarians have a strong work ethic and a tradition of resilience, often taking pride in their heritage and accomplishments.
Get started with Multiplier’s Employer of Record (EOR) services
Multiplier simplifies the process of hiring and managing employees in Hungary. With our global Employer of Record (EOR) platform, you can hire staff in Hungary without the need to set up a local entity. We handle all HR responsibilities, including compliant contracts, payroll processing, compliance with labor regulations, and benefits administration.
With Multiplier, you can concentrate on growing your business and building your team in Hungary, all while ensuring compliance with local labor laws.
Book a demo with Multiplier’s experts to learn how we can help you expand your team in Hungary.
