Government proposal to change rules on written contracts and probationary periods

The Norwegian government has submitted proposals which aim to implement the EU Transparent and Predictable Working Conditions Directive. The proposals seek to create more predictable working conditions for employees, especially for those working in temporary or part-time positions. 

The proposals include increased requirements for the employment contract in the WEA Section 14-6, such as the hirer’s identity when the employee is hired from a staffing agency, right to competence development that the employer may offer, and any right to leave paid by the employer other than ordinary holiday. The proposal also includes a limitation on the duration of probationary periods in temporary employment to not exceed half of the employment relationship's duration. Additionally, new provisions have been proposed regarding what should be considered when information is missing from the employment contract, including that a permanent position should be assumed if the contract does not state whether it is temporary, and the employee's statement should be considered when the employment contract does not specify the scope of the position.

The hearing bodies have been given a deadline of 1 September 2023 to submit their inputs on the proposal.