Workers' rights in Norway

Employees in Norway have important rights concerning working hours, rest, holidays, overtime, a safe working environment and payment. These rights are mainly regulated by the Working Environment Act and other Norwegian laws.

As a general rule, ordinary working hours may not exceed nine hours in 24 hours and 40 hours in seven days. Some types of work, including certain shift, night and Sunday work, have lower limits.

Employees are entitled to breaks when their working day exceeds five and a half hours. If the working day is eight hours or longer, the total break time must normally be at least 30 minutes.

Employees are also entitled to sufficient rest between working periods. As a general rule, employees should have at least 11 consecutive hours of rest during each 24-hour period and at least 35 consecutive hours of rest during each seven-day period.

Overtime is work beyond the limits for ordinary working hours. Overtime should not be a regular arrangement and may normally only be used when there is a special and time-limited need.

If you work overtime, you are entitled to an overtime supplement of at least 40 percent of your agreed hourly wage. A written agreement may allow overtime hours to be taken as time off, but the minimum overtime supplement must still be paid.

All working hours must be registered. The employer must keep an updated record of the employee's actual working hours and breaks.

Employees are entitled to at least 25 working days of holiday each year under the Holiday Act. Many employees have a fifth week of holiday through a collective agreement.

Holiday pay (feriepenger) is intended to replace salary during holiday. The statutory minimum holiday pay rate is normally 10.2 percent of the basis for holiday pay. Collective agreements may provide a higher rate.

Employees have the right to a safe and healthy working environment. The employer is responsible for organising work so that employees are protected against unnecessary risks to their health and safety.

Employers must not discriminate against employees or job applicants on grounds protected by Norwegian anti-discrimination legislation. Employees should be treated fairly regardless of legally protected personal characteristics.

As a general rule, an employer cannot deduct money from an employee's wages or holiday pay unless there is a legal basis or the deduction has been agreed in writing in advance.

If your employer does not pay your salary, holiday pay or overtime supplement, contact the employer as soon as possible and preferably make your claim in writing. Keep your employment contract, timesheets, payslips and other documents that can support your claim.

If you are a member of a trade union, you can ask the union for advice and assistance. You can also contact Arbeidstilsynet for information about your rights and obligations as an employee.

If you become unable to work because of illness or injury, you may be entitled to sickness benefit under the Norwegian National Insurance system if you meet the applicable conditions. NAV provides information about sickness benefit and sick leave.

Understanding your employment contract, keeping records of working hours and checking your payslips can help you protect your rights at work.

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