Rivermate | Papua New Guinea landscape
Rivermate | Papua New Guinea

Working Hours in Papua New Guinea

399 EURper employee/month

Explore standard working hours and overtime regulations in Papua New Guinea

Updated on April 24, 2025

Papua New Guinea has specific regulations governing working hours, overtime, and rest periods to protect employee rights and ensure fair labor practices. Understanding these regulations is crucial for businesses operating in the country to maintain compliance and foster a positive work environment. The Employment Act 1978 and related legislation outline the standards for working time, compensation, and employee welfare.

Adhering to these regulations not only ensures legal compliance but also contributes to improved employee morale and productivity. Employers must be aware of the specific requirements for standard working hours, overtime pay, rest breaks, and record-keeping to avoid potential penalties and maintain a healthy employer-employee relationship.

Standard Working Hours

The standard workweek in Papua New Guinea is generally 44 hours per week. This typically translates to eight hours per day from Monday to Friday, with a slightly longer shift on one of those days to account for the additional hours.

  • Daily Limit: The standard workday is typically eight hours.
  • Weekly Limit: The standard workweek is 44 hours.

Overtime Regulations and Compensation

Overtime work is any time worked beyond the standard daily or weekly hours. Papua New Guinea law mandates specific overtime rates to compensate employees for this additional work.

| Overtime Scenario | Overtime Rate

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