Navigating labor regulations is a critical aspect of employing individuals in any country. In North Macedonia, working time rules are established by the Labor Law, setting clear standards for standard hours, overtime, rest periods, and other related aspects of employment. Adhering to these regulations is essential for employers to ensure compliance, maintain fair working conditions, and avoid potential legal issues. Understanding the specific requirements for working hours, including limits on daily and weekly work, mandatory breaks, and rules governing overtime and special shifts, is fundamental for managing a compliant workforce.
These regulations are designed to protect employee well-being while providing a framework for productive work environments. Employers operating in North Macedonia, whether through a local entity or via an Employer of Record, must be fully aware of these stipulations to manage payroll, scheduling, and overall employment relationships effectively.
Standard Working Hours and Workweek Structure
The standard full-time working hours in North Macedonia are set by law. The typical workweek is structured over five days, though variations may exist based on collective agreements or specific industry needs, provided the maximum weekly limit is not exceeded.
| Aspect | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Weekly Hours | 40 hours | Maximum for full-time employment |
| Standard Daily Hours | 8 hours | Based on a 5-day workweek |
| Typical Workweek | 5 days | Monday to Friday is common |
| Reduced Working Hours | Varies | Possible for specific roles/conditions |
Reduced working hours may apply to jobs involving particular health risks or strenuous conditions, as defined by law or collective agreements.
Overtime Regulations and Compensation
Work performed beyond the standard working hours is considered overtime. Overtime is generally permitted under specific circumstances, such as increased workload, unforeseen events, or other urgent needs, but is subject to strict limits and requires appropriate compensation.
| Aspect | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Overtime Rate | +35% of base salary | Minimum increase for overtime hours |
| Weekly Overtime Limit | 8 hours | Maximum additional hours per week |
| Annual Overtime Limit | 190 hours | Maximum additional hours per calendar year |
| Permitted Circumstances | Specific needs | Increased workload, emergencies, etc. |
Overtime must be ordered by the employer and is subject to the employee's consent in certain situations, unless otherwise specified by law or collective agreement. The total working time, including overtime, must not exceed 50 hours per week on average over a reference period.
Rest Periods and Breaks
Employees are entitled to mandatory rest periods during the workday, between workdays, and weekly. These rest periods are crucial for employee health and safety.
| Aspect | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Break | Minimum 30 minutes | For a full 8-hour workday, paid |
| Daily Rest | Minimum 12 consecutive hours | Between two consecutive workdays |
| Weekly Rest | Minimum 24 consecutive hours | Usually includes Sunday, plus daily rest |
The daily break is typically taken during the workday and is counted as working time. The weekly rest period should ideally be taken on Sunday, but alternative arrangements are possible if required by the nature of the work, provided the employee receives the mandatory 24 consecutive hours of rest plus the daily rest entitlement.
Night Shift and Weekend Work
Specific regulations apply to work performed during night hours or on weekends, often involving different compensation rates or conditions.
- Night Work Definition: Work performed between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
- Compensation: Work performed during night hours or on days of weekly rest (weekends) is typically compensated at a higher rate than standard hours. The minimum increase is often the same as the overtime rate (+35%), but collective agreements or individual contracts may stipulate higher rates.
- Restrictions: There may be restrictions on assigning certain categories of employees (e.g., pregnant women, minors) to night shifts. Health assessments may be required for regular night workers.
Working Time Recording Obligations
Employers in North Macedonia have a legal obligation to maintain accurate records of their employees' working time. This is essential for demonstrating compliance with labor laws regarding standard hours, overtime, rest periods, and special shifts.
- Required Records: Employers must record the start and end time of each workday for every employee. This includes tracking standard hours, overtime hours, night work, and work performed on weekends or public holidays.
- Purpose: These records serve as proof of compliance during labor inspections and are necessary for accurate payroll calculation, ensuring employees are correctly compensated for all hours worked, including overtime and special rates.
- Accessibility: Records must be accessible to labor inspectors upon request. Employees also typically have the right to review their own working time records.
Maintaining diligent and accurate working time records is a fundamental employer responsibility and a key component of labor law compliance in North Macedonia.
