Overtime work in North Macedonia is governed by the Law on Labor Relations, which sets out the legal grounds under which overtime can be required, strict hour limits, and mandatory pay supplements. Understanding these rules is essential for both employers and employees. This page is part of our practice as an employment lawyer in Skopje. For a full breakdown of salary allowances including the 35% overtime supplement, see our guide on salary allowances for private sector employees.

Legal Framework

The foundation for overtime work in North Macedonia lies in the Law on Labor Relations. According to this law, employees are required to work overtime at their employer’s request under certain circumstances. These circumstances include situations where there is an exceptional increase in the volume of work, a need to continue business or production processes, or the requirement to address damage to means of work that could disrupt operations. Overtime can also be mandated to ensure the safety of people and property, as well as the safety of traffic.

Limits on Overtime

While overtime work is permissible, there are limits in place to protect employees’ well-being. Overtime work cannot exceed eight hours during a week, nor can it exceed 190 hours in a year, except for cases where work cannot be interrupted due to the specific work process or when organizing work in shifts is not feasible. Over a three-month period, overtime hours must not average more than eight hours per week.

Compensation and Bonuses

One of the key aspects of overtime work in North Macedonia is fair compensation. Employees who work more than 150 hours beyond their regular full-time hours, and have not been absent from work for more than 21 days during the year with the same employer (where days of annual leave are not considered), are entitled to additional compensation. This additional compensation includes a bonus equal to one average salary in the Republic.

The Importance of Fair Compensation

Fair compensation for overtime work is essential for motivating employees, maintaining their job satisfaction, and ensuring that they are adequately rewarded for their dedication and hard work. Employers benefit from this as well, as satisfied employees tend to be more productive and committed to their roles.

Collective Agreements

In addition to the law, collective agreements between employers and employee representatives can establish additional rules and regulations regarding overtime work. These agreements can provide further clarity on compensation, working conditions, and the circumstances under which overtime can be required.

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2026 Practical Checklist

Employees and employers should verify the following regarding overtime in North Macedonia: (1) Overtime must be requested by the employer — only under a legally prescribed ground (exceptional workload, operational continuity, safety). Employees cannot unilaterally work overtime. (2) Weekly cap: 8 hours — overtime cannot exceed 8 hours in any single week. Over a 3-month reference period, the weekly average must not exceed 8 hours. (3) Annual cap: 190 hours — except where work is continuous or shift organization is not feasible. (4) Overtime pay supplement: 35% — every overtime hour must be compensated at a minimum 35% supplement on the basic hourly salary. Mandatory — cannot be excluded by contract. (5) Annual bonus: 150+ overtime hours + max 21 days absence — employees meeting both conditions receive a bonus equal to one average salary in North Macedonia. (6) Check whether a sector-level collective agreement provides more favorable rules. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an employer require overtime at any time?

No. The Law on Labor Relations limits overtime to specific grounds: exceptional increase in workload, continuity of business or production, addressing equipment damage that could disrupt operations, and ensuring safety of people, property or traffic. Overtime cannot be required outside these circumstances.

What is the maximum overtime an employee can work?

No more than 8 hours per week and 190 hours per year (with narrow exceptions). The 3-month rolling average must also not exceed 8 hours per week.

What is the overtime pay rate in North Macedonia?

A minimum 35% supplement on the basic hourly salary applies to every overtime hour. This is in addition to the regular pay for those hours and is mandatory under the Law on Labor Relations and the General Collective Agreement for the private sector.

Who qualifies for the annual overtime bonus?

Employees who work more than 150 overtime hours in a calendar year with the same employer and were absent for no more than 21 days (annual leave not counted) are entitled to a bonus equal to one average salary in North Macedonia.

Can a collective agreement change the overtime rules?

Yes — collective agreements can supplement the law, for example by setting higher pay supplements or defining additional grounds. They cannot reduce the minimum protections set by the Law on Labor Relations.

Need legal guidance?

If you have questions about overtime rights or employment law in North Macedonia, the team at Lalicic & Partners is at your disposal. Contact us through our website.