The rule: Working Environment Act §10-6
Under the Working Environment Act (Arbeidsmiljøloven) §10-6, normal working time is up to 9 hours a day and 40 hours a week. Overtime beyond that must carry a supplement of at least 40% (×1.4) of the agreed hourly wage. This minimum is non-waivable — it is not legal to agree a lower premium, and the employee cannot waive it. Time off in lieu can be agreed for the hours, but the +40% supplement must always still be paid in cash.
Overtime rate table
| Normal hour | ×1.0 |
| Overtime (statutory minimum) | ×1.4 (+40%) |
| Collective agreements often pay | +50% to +100% |
Worked example
At kr 250/hour, two overtime hours at the statutory minimum = 2 × 250 × 1.4 = kr 700 added to your ordinary pay. Many collective agreements (tariffavtale) set a higher rate — check yours; the calculator defaults to the 1.4x legal minimum.
Limits, exemptions and who to contact
Overtime is strictly capped: 10 hours/week, 25 hours over four weeks, and 200 hours/year. Senior and particularly independent positions may be exempt. The Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority (Arbeidstilsynet) enforces these rules.
- What is the minimum overtime rate in Norway?
- At least +40% (×1.4) of the hourly wage — a non-waivable statutory minimum (§10-6).
- Can I agree to a lower rate?
- No — the 40% minimum cannot be waived or reduced.
- Can overtime be taken as time off?
- The hours can, by agreement, but the +40% supplement must still be paid in money.
- What is the overtime limit?
- 10 hours/week, 25 over four weeks, 200 per year.