Archive · Originally published 2018-08-30
Editorially revised on 8 November 2026. This page records an earlier topic; follow the current guide below for present-day advice.
The issue
German working-time law regulates maximum hours, rest periods and breaks, with specific exceptions and sector rules. Contractual hours and working-time protection are distinct: paying overtime does not automatically make an excessive schedule lawful. On-call duties, travel and multiple jobs need an individual assessment.
How to read this today
A time-recording system should reflect actual work and have a clear correction and approval process. Recording working time does not, by itself, prove every requirement of an overtime-pay claim. Check the contract, instructions, tolerance of additional work and the applicable evidential rules.
Practical context
Define workplace, availability, equipment, expenses, health and safety, confidentiality and arrangements for changing the working model. Consider works council participation and data protection when selecting monitoring or time-recording software. Avoid promises that do not match the role or operational need.