By Hugo Ribeiro, Certified Accountant · Member of the Order of Certified Accountants · HVR Business Consulting
Introduction In Portugal, working hours are governed by specific legislation aimed at protecting workers' rights while allowing some flexibility to meet business needs. With the increasing adoption of hybrid and remote work models, understanding legal standards regarding working hours has become crucial for employers and employees. Definition of Working Hours Working hours are the period during which the worker is available to the employer, including commuting time in some cases. According to article 199 of the Labour Code , normal working hours cannot exceed 8 hours per day and 40 hours per w…
Key Takeaways
Comply with Labour Code for work flexibility.
Written agreements are crucial for flexible hours.
Strict limits for overtime (48h weekly).
Remunerate overtime per Art. 268 of the Labour Code.
Specialized consulting prevents violations and optimizes.
FAQ
What are normal working hours in Portugal?
Normal hours cannot exceed 8 hours daily and 40 hours weekly, according to article 199 of the Labour Code.
How does the time bank system work?
It allows accumulating working hours to compensate for periods of lower activity, regulated by article 208 of the Labour Code.
What are the legal limits for overtime?
An employee must not exceed 48 hours per week, including overtime, as stipulated in article 229 of the Labour Code.
Is it legal to apply flexible hours without a written agreement?
No. Regimes like flexible or concentrated hours always require a written agreement between employer and employee for legal compliance.