Hours of work in Cyprus

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Standard Hours in Cyprus

In Cyprus, the standard working hours are typically between 38 and 48 hours per week, depending on the sector. Employers must comply with national labour laws that set limits on both regular working hours and overtime. According to EU directives, which Cyprus adheres to, employees should not work more than 48 hours per week, including overtime, averaged over a four-month period. Employees working a five-day week usually work 8 hours per day, while those on a six-day schedule work shorter shifts.

Overtime is regulated and must be compensated at higher rates: 150% of the normal wage for regular overtime and 200% for work on Sundays or public holidays. Any overtime work must be documented, and employers are required to pay or provide time off in lieu. There are also mandatory rest periods, including daily breaks and a minimum of 11 consecutive hours of rest between shifts.

Failure to comply with working hours or overtime regulations may lead to fines, legal actions, and claims from employees for unpaid wages or overtime.

Standard working hours

The standard full-time workweek in Cyprus is set at 40 hours. While this is the general norm, employment contracts or collective agreements may establish slightly different hours for specific industries or roles, provided they comply with legal requirements.

Daily working hours

The normal daily working hours in Cyprus are capped at 8 hours per day. In some cases, specific agreements or industry requirements may allow for longer daily hours, but these must remain within the framework of Cypriot labour law and EU working time regulations.

Part-time work

Employees working less than 40 hours per week are considered part-time. Part-time employees are entitled to the same rights and benefits as full-time employees, such as social insurance and leave, on a pro-rata basis.

Maximum Working Hours & Overtime Laws in Cyprus

While the standard workweek is 40 hours, Cypriot labour law sets a maximum of 48 hours per week, including overtime. This limit is calculated as an average over a four-month reference period to account for temporary peaks in workload.

Overtime laws

Overtime is defined as any hours worked beyond the standard daily or weekly hours stipulated in an employee’s contract.

  • Overtime pay: Employees are entitled to an overtime premium, which is typically 150% of the standard hourly wage for overtime during weekdays. Work performed on Sundays or public holidays is compensated at a higher rate, often 200%.
  • Time off in lieu: Instead of monetary compensation, employers and employees may agree on compensatory time off, which must be provided within a reasonable period after the overtime is worked.

Overtime conditions

  • Employer approval: Overtime must generally be approved by the employer and should align with labour law regulations.
  • Overtime limits: Employers must ensure that overtime does not cause employees to exceed the 48-hour weekly maximum (averaged over four months).

Repercussions for breach

Employers who violate overtime regulations, fail to compensate employees, or impose excessive working hours risk fines, back pay claims, and inspections by labour authorities. Repeated violations may lead to stricter penalties, including legal action and potential reputational damage.

Cyprus ensures that working hours and overtime practices are regulated to protect employee well-being while allowing for necessary flexibility in the workplace. Employers must remain vigilant in adhering to these regulations to maintain compliance and foster positive employment relations.

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