Working time: European rest requirements and limits
Directive 2003/88 sets minimum rest periods and limits on working time. When drafting a Belgian job offer, also check national and sector-specific rules.
The Commission recalls the average limit of 48 hours per week, including overtime, and minimum rest periods of 11 consecutive hours in each 24-hour period and 24 hours per week in addition to daily rest. A break is required when work exceeds 6 hours, and paid annual leave must be at least 4 weeks.
The average is calculated over the legally permitted reference period. Exceptions and specific arrangements exist, particularly in transport. These requirements, from the text published on 18 November 2003, do not allow 48 hours to be presented as normal working time in Belgium. Check the advertised schedule, rest periods and night work rules before publishing.