Employer and Employees
Employment Contract: Requirements for a Written Agreement
All employees must have a written employment contract. See deadlines, minimum requirements, and what employers must update when conditions change.
2 min read · Translated from Norwegian. Read the original
All employees must have a written employment contract, regardless of whether the position is permanent, temporary, part-time, or short-term. The employer is responsible for preparing the agreement. A clear contract reduces ambiguity but cannot deviate from mandatory legal requirements to the detriment of the employee.
When must the agreement be ready?
If the employment relationship is to last more than one month, the agreement must be in place as soon as possible, and no later than seven days after commencement. For employment relationships up to one month and for temporary hiring (staffing), it must be available on the same day the work starts.
What should the agreement contain?
The agreement must, among other things, identify the parties and the workplace, describe the work, state the start date, type of position, working hours, salary, supplements, holiday, probationary period, notice periods, pension, and other benefits. In the case of temporary employment, the expected duration and legal basis must be stated.
Varying working hours and home office
When working hours vary, the agreement must make it possible to calculate when the work is to be performed and describe arrangements for shift changes. Home office and work abroad may require a separate written supplementary agreement.
When conditions change
Changes in percentage of position, title, tasks, or other contractual terms must be incorporated into the agreement at the latest when the change takes effect. Keep version history and signatures securely.
At Proffi
Proffi can help employers find HR systems and employment law assistance. A general contract template must not be presented as legal advice for all situations.
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Frequently asked questions
- Must part-time employees have an employment contract?
- Yes. The requirement applies to all employees.
- Is an unsigned agreement invalid?
- Not automatically, but a signature provides important documentation of agreement.
- Can the agreement have worse terms than the law?
- Mandatory legal requirements apply even if both parties have signed.