What are the standard working hours in the Czech Republic?

In the Czech Republic, the standard work week consists of 40 hours, typically structured as 8 hours per day over 5 days. Employees are entitled to a rest and meal break of at least 30 minutes.

Starting January 1, 2025, employees may choose to self-schedule their working hours under a written agreement with their employer. This agreement can be part of their employment agreement or a separate document. Employees must meet their average weekly hours within a balancing period that the employer sets, which can be up to 26 weeks, or 52 weeks if specified within a collective bargaining agreement. Shifts should not exceed 12 hours per day. Employers are required to specify working hours for certain situations, such as work-related impediments, holidays, business trips, and similar scenarios. The arrangement may be terminated by either party with a 15-day notice period or by mutual consent.

Is overtime governed by law in the Czech Republic? If so, what are the specifics outlined by law?

In the Czech Republic, overtime work is governed by law. Employees are allowed to work overtime but cannot exceed 12 hours of work per day. Additionally, overtime must average no more than 8 hours per week over a period of 26 weeks.

Overtime should generally only occur under exceptional circumstances, such as:

• Serious operational reasons, like urgent repairs
• Responses to natural disasters
• Cargo unloading or essential work in the healthcare industry

For employees with part-time hours agreed in their employment agreements, they cannot be required to work beyond their part-time schedule without their consent.

How is overtime payment calculated in the Czech Republic?

In the Czech Republic, overtime payment is calculated as follows:

• Employees who work overtime generally receive compensation that is 125% of their usual wages.
• Employment agreements typically allow for up to 150 hours of overtime annually without additional compensation. Overtime beyond this limit is compensated at the 125% rate.
• Managing employees are allowed to perform overtime without extra compensation for up to 8 hours per week over 26 consecutive weeks.

How is the time off in lieu payment calculated in the Czech Republic?

In the Czech Republic, time off in lieu payment is calculated based on the supported employee's average income.

What are the eligibility rules for time off in lieu in the Czech Republic?

In the Czech Republic, supported employees are eligible for time off in lieu under the following conditions:

• Overtime compensation
• Work on public holiday compensation

How many days before the actual start date should the employment agreement be signed for payroll purposes in the Czech Republic?

In the Czech Republic, for payroll purposes, the employment agreement must be signed before the cut-off date of the given month if the start is to be effective within that month. Additionally, the employment agreement must be concluded in writing and signed no later than the start date, in accordance with local regulations.

Can employment agreements be backdated in the Czech Republic?

In the Czech Republic, employment agreements can be backdated, but this is permissible only for a limited time period.