Breaks, Maximum Working Hours/day For Employees

According to the presently valid Statute for Employees you are allowed at least a 15 minute break if your working day is longer than 6 hours. 30 minute break if you´re under 18 and working longer than 4,5 hours.

Between one working day and the next there should be a break of at least 12 hours.

A working day cannot consist of more than 9 hours, unless another distribution of the working hours has been agreed upon by Convenio or between the employer and representatives of the employees, still respecting the 12 hour break as mentioned above.

Every week you should be granted an uninterrupted break of at least 1,5 working day. This break can be postponed to max. 2 weeks, but break should be double then. Under 18: min. 2 days.

If you are working night hours (between 10 pm and 6 am) the conditions are different, please contact us for more info.

If you´re under 18, your working day cannot be longer than 8 hours, including study hours if you´re on an apprentice/work experience contract that is part of an educational programme.

As with all articles from the Statutes, they are minimal guarantees for employees, they can be amplified, either through a Convenio that is in place for your worksector, or by individual employers, confirmed in your work contract.

Please note: The information provided is based upon our understanding of current legislation. It is not legal advice but is provided freely to enable you to be properly informed. We recommend that if you are considering taking action, you should seek professional advice.