Updated June 30th 2025

All About Employee Work Hours in Germany

Gain insights into the typical work hours of employees in Germany and discover how Justworks EOR can streamline the process of hiring your international team.

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How an EOR Can Help Streamline HR

Discover typical German working hours and gain valuable insights into German work culture with Justworks. Our global employer of record (EOR) provides you with the tools and support needed to understand and navigate the German labor market effectively. From handling localized HR functions such as onboarding, payroll, taxes, and local benefits. Justworks simplifies the complexities of operating in Germany without a local entity.

Standard Hours of Work in Germany

Working Hour Limits

Standard working hours are eight hours daily Monday through Saturday with a weekly maximum of 48 hours. Employees are permitted to work 10 hours per day in certain cases as long as the average working hours equal eight hours daily. Per statutory law, employers can’t require employees to work on Sundays or national holidays.

Work Culture

Germany's work culture is known for its emphasis on efficiency, punctuality, and precision. In terms of work ethic, Germans value hard work, reliability, and thoroughness. Hierarchical structures are common in German workplaces where roles and responsibilities are clearly defined. While collaboration and teamwork are important, individual accountability and achievement are also highly valued. Communication is direct and to the point.

This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, legal or tax advice. If you have any legal or tax questions regarding this content or related issues, then you should consult with your professional legal or tax advisor.

Ready for Easier Team Management in Germany?

Justworks EOR makes building your global team seamless by offering local expertise to help you understand the nuances of managing employees in Germany. Save yourself the time and hassle of international hiring today.

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