Landing a tech job in the EU is an exciting move. But before you dive into your new role, whether it’s one of the jobs in Germany or jobs in Poland, it’s crucial to understand your fundamental rights.
Unlike in many other parts of the world, “hustle culture” is kept in check by strong, legally-binding protections for employees. The cornerstone of this is the EU Working Time Directive.
This directive is a baseline—a minimum set of rights that every member state must provide. Many countries (like Germany and France) offer even better conditions. When you’re working with a recruitment agency get-talent.eu in Europe, they’ll assume you know this, so let’s get you up to speed.
Work Hours: The 48-Hour (Average) Week
The most famous rule is the 48-hour maximum work week. But this is the most misunderstood rule.
- It’s an average, not a hard limit. Your employer can’t force you to work more than 48 hours on average over a “reference period” (usually 4 months). This allows for busy weeks, as long as they are balanced by quieter ones.
- The “Opt-Out”: In some countries (like the UK, historically), you can voluntarily “opt-out” of the 48-hour week in writing. This is common in high-pressure fields, but it must be your choice.
Rest: Your Legal Right to Disconnect
The law is more focused on ensuring you get proper rest to prevent burnout.
- Daily Rest: You are legally entitled to 11 consecutive hours of rest in every 24-hour period. This is why you can’t be scheduled for a “clopening” shift (closing late and opening early).
- Weekly Rest: You are entitled to at least 24 consecutive hours of rest (like a Sunday) every seven days, in addition to your 11 hours of daily rest.
🏖️ Annual Leave: The 4-Week Minimum
This is a game-changer for many coming to Europe.
- The Law: Every single worker in the EU is entitled to a minimum of 4 weeks (20 days) of paid annual leave per year.
- The Reality: 20 days is just the floor. Most tech companies in the EU offer far more. A good staffing agency in the EU will be placing you in roles that offer 25-30 days as standard.
- How it Works: This leave accrues (builds up) as you work. If you leave a job mid-year, you’re entitled to be paid out for the days you’ve earned but not taken.
Here’s a look at how the legal minimum compares to the common reality in major tech hubs:
| Country | Legal Minimum Paid Leave | Common in Tech Contracts |
| EU Directive | 4 weeks (20 days) | 25-30 days |
| Germany | 20 days (based on 5-day week) | 28-30 days |
| France | 5 weeks (25 days) | 25-30 days (plus RTT days) |
| Poland | 20-26 days (based on experience) | 26 days |
| Spain | 22 working days (30 calendar days) | 25-30 days |
Conclusion
Your rights are a serious part of the employment package. When you get an offer, you’ll see these legal minimums reflected in your contract. It’s one of the biggest “hidden benefits” of working in the European tech ecosystem.
References
- European Commission: Working Time Directive (2003/88/EC)
- Your Europe (EU Portal): Annual leave
- EURES (European Job Mobility Portal): Working and living conditions in Germany