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Understanding Finland’s labor laws, particularly those governing working hours, is vital for employers planning to establish or expand their business in the country. By becoming familiar with Finland’s legal framework on working hours, you can prevent potential legal issues, foster a positive workplace culture, and support the long-term success of your organization.
Let’s dive into the specifics of Finland working hours to guide you through this important aspect of employment regulations.
Standard working hours in Finland
In Finland, working hours are regulated by the Working Hours Act. The standard workweek in Finland is typically 40 hours, usually spread across five days from Monday to Friday. This aligns with common European practices and promotes a strong work-life balance. A 30-minute to 1-hour lunch break is usually included during the day.
In industries requiring more flexibility, such as manufacturing or healthcare, working hours might differ depending on the demands of the role.
While 40 hours is the standard, collective bargaining agreements can influence working hours across different industries. Part-time employees in Finland typically work fewer hours, with schedules determined by mutual agreement between the employer and the employee.
Overtime regulations
Overtime refers to any work beyond the standard 40-hour workweek or the agreed-upon working hours in specific contracts. According to the Finnish Working Hours Act, Employees cannot work more than 138 hours of overtime in a four-month period, and the total overtime cannot exceed 250 hours annually, unless otherwise agreed through collective agreements.
For overtime hours, employees are entitled to a 50% premium on their regular hourly wage for the first two hours of overtime on a given day. After that, the premium increases to 100%. Overtime worked on Sundays or public holidays is typically compensated at double the regular rate.
Employers can request employees to work overtime, but employees have the right to refuse if it conflicts with legal limits or personal obligations. In some cases, employees may opt for time off in lieu of overtime pay, depending on the agreement between the employer and employee.
Flexible working arrangements
Flexibility is a key aspect of Finland’s work culture, making it easier for businesses to accommodate diverse workforce needs while maintaining productivity.
Finland’s labor laws provide a strong framework for flexible working arrangements, especially for employees with particular needs. Employees who have completed six months of employment are entitled to request changes to their working hours, such as part-time or remote work, under the Working Hours Act.
Parents of young children, caregivers, older workers, and individuals with disabilities are often eligible for more flexible arrangements. In addition, employees on permanent or fixed-term contracts can also request modifications to their working conditions after meeting the six-month employment requirement.
Breaks and rest periods
In Finland, employers must ensure that employees receive adequate breaks and rest periods during the workday. Under the Working Hours Act, employees are entitled to a daily rest period of at least 11 consecutive hours between the end of one workday and the start of the next.
During the workday, employees working more than six hours must be given a meal break of at least 30 minutes. This break can be unpaid if the employee is free to leave the workplace. Additionally, short breaks may be provided, depending on the collective agreement or specific work environment.
Certain employees, such as pregnant workers or nursing mothers, may qualify for additional or extended breaks. Finnish labor law requires employers to strictly follow these provisions, as failure to do so may result in penalties and other legal consequences.
Night work and shift work
Night work is permitted for certain jobs and duties between 11 PM and 6 AM in Finland. Employees working during these hours are typically entitled to additional compensation, which may include a night shift premium, as outlined in collective agreements or employment contracts.
Shift work, which can involve rotating schedules or night shifts, is regulated by labor laws to protect workers’ rights. Employers are required to ensure the health and safety of shift workers, including providing regular breaks, ergonomic workstations, and proper lighting conditions to reduce strain and fatigue.
There are restrictions on the length of shifts, particularly for night work, to prevent overworking and ensure employee well-being. Shift workers also have the right to stable and predictable work schedules, with employers required to give adequate notice of any shift changes so employees can plan around personal commitments.
Part-time and minor employment
In Finland, part-time employees generally work fewer than 40 hours per week. They are entitled to the same rights as full-time workers, including paid holidays, sick leave, and social security benefits, calculated on a pro-rata basis depending on their working hours.
Finnish labor laws also set clear guidelines for employing minors. The minimum age for employment is 15, though younger individuals (13–14 years old) can work in light duties during school holidays or in jobs that don’t interfere with their education.
There are additional restrictions for workers under 18, particularly concerning working hours and the nature of the tasks they can perform.
Minors are not permitted to work more than 7 hours a day, and their working conditions must comply with regulations designed to ensure their safety, health, and continued education.
Compliance and penalties
Employers with teams in Finland must adhere to strict labor laws governing working hours, overtime, breaks, and rest periods. Non-compliance with these regulations can lead to substantial financial penalties and legal repercussions, including sanctions imposed by labor authorities.
Cultural considerations
In Finland, the workplace culture emphasizes transparency, equality, and direct communication. Finnish employees appreciate a straightforward approach, valuing honesty and openness in interactions. While professionalism is important, the work environment tends to be informal and relaxed, encouraging collaboration and innovation.
Finnish culture places a strong emphasis on work-life balance, which influences employee expectations and job satisfaction. It’s common for employees to prioritize their personal lives alongside their professional commitments. Understanding this cultural perspective is vital for employers to foster an inclusive and motivating workplace.
Additionally, Finland’s cultural traits, such as a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, should be acknowledged and respected in business practices.
Get started with Multiplier’s Employer of Record (EOR) services
With the Multiplier global Employer of Record (EOR) platform, you can hire talent in Finland without needing to establish a local entity. We handle all HR responsibilities, including onboarding, payroll management, labor law compliance, and benefits administration.
By partnering with Multiplier, you can concentrate on expanding your business and building your team in Finland, all while ensuring adherence to local labor regulations.
Schedule a demo with Multiplier’s experts today to discover how we can assist you in growing your team in Finland.
