Can I refuse overtime in Finland?
Yes — overtime is always voluntary. The Working Hours Act requires the employee's consent to overtime, as a rule for each occasion; consent for a short period at once is possible only where work arrangements demand it. Refusing isn't a breach of duty nor a lawful dismissal ground. Overtime pays extra: daily overtime +50% for the first 2 hours and +100% after, weekly overtime +50% — or equivalent raised time off if agreed.
📋 The rules
- Overtime requires the employee's consent, as a rule per occasion (Working Hours Act 872/2019).
- Consent for a short period at once is valid only where arrangements demand — an open-ended 'whenever needed' contract clause doesn't bind.
- Daily overtime: +50% for the first two hours, +100% thereafter; weekly overtime +50% — collective agreements can improve this.
- Overtime compensation can be swapped for equivalently raised time off by agreement.
- Maximum overtime amounts and rest periods bind even willing employees — tracking is the employer's duty.
🔓 Exceptions
- Emergency work is the exception: unforeseeable events (accidents, serious production failures) allow work without consent within statutory limits and notifications.
- Senior executives and certain groups outside the Working Hours Act are their own chapter.
⚠️ Penalties
Punishing refusal (warnings, retaliatory shift cuts, dismissal) is unlawful — contest via your union or occupational safety. Unpaid overtime is collected retroactively with interest; limitation periods run.
📎 Sources
- Finlex · Working Hours Act 872/2019 →
- Occupational Safety Administration · Working time and overtime →
- Finlex · Employment Contracts Act 55/2001 →
❓ Frequently asked questions
Can a contract commit me to overtime in advance?
Not validly as an open clause — consent is given per occasion, or for a short period at once only where arrangements demand.
What does overtime pay?
Daily: +50% for the first two hours, +100% after; weekly: +50%. Agreements can be better — never worse.
Is additional work the same as overtime?
No — additional work sits between agreed and statutory maximum hours (common part-time) and pays normal wages unless an agreement raises it.
Can I be fired for refusing overtime?
Not lawfully — refusal is your right. Document and contest any retaliation.
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