Changes in working hours, overtime, and hiring are introduced by the new labor bill, presented by the Minister of Labor Niki Kerameos, which received the “green light” from the cabinet with the aim of simplifying procedures, reducing bureaucracy, and modernizing labor regulations.
What changes in the hiring process and voluntary resignations
– The possibility is provided for the hiring announcement to be completed with one document, instead of the 4 currently required.
– A consolidated digital file is created for the employee, and notifications can be sent via the myErgani app.
– For the first time, a mobile app is created for employers, similar to the myErgani app, through which all labor relations issues will be managed.
– The possibility of rapid hiring for urgent business needs is provided through a mobile app, for work up to 2 days.
– The employee can independently declare their voluntary resignation in ERGANI II.
Which forms are abolished for employers
– The leave book,
– The annual leave schedule,
– The annual staff schedule.
– And the employer does not need to keep documents in printed form that are kept electronically.
What changes in the working hours of employees
– An employee may work today for 2 or more employers up to 13 hours daily under conditions. This possibility is extended to employees working for one employer, provided that rest limits and maximum weekly working hours are strictly observed, as well as the payment of legal overtime increases.
– Overtime is allowed in part-time work, with legal increases amounting to 40%.
– The possibility of applying a four-day workweek throughout the year (instead of just one semester) is provided, particularly benefiting working parents.
What applies to the 13-hour workday and overtime pay
The obligation to work goes up to the 9th hour. That is, up to the hour of overwork. Beyond that, there must be an agreement between the employee and employer. In this case, the employee must give their consent. Therefore, no one can be forced to work for 13 hours.
It is also noted that any overtime is legally compensated with at least a +40% increase in pay. Therefore, the employee must give consent to work more than 9 hours, and specific compensation is provided, increased for the hours of overwork by +20% and for overtime by +40%.
Which employee benefits are changing
– The maternity/pregnancy benefit is extended to cases of insurance/employment with more than one fund/employer.
– The parental leave benefit is established as tax-free, non-transferable, and non-seizable.
– The provision of the postnatal part of maternity leave is extended to foster mothers.
What changes in the allocation of annual vacation leave
Greater freedom is given to the employee in the ability to allocate annual vacation leave, in consultation with the employer. It is clarified that the bill does not include a provision allowing the employer to freely recall and cancel the employee’s summer leave.
Read the detailed presentation of the New Labor Bill here
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