Understanding Kazakhstan's Working Hours and Labor Regulations

Maximum Working Hours and Overtime Laws in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan's labor framework, primarily governed by the Republic of Kazakhstan Labor Code and collective agreements, establishes clear guidelines for working hours and overtime compensation. These regulations ensure fair treatment of employees while maintaining operational efficiency for businesses operating in the country.

Standard Working Hours Framework

Kazakhstan operates under either a 5-day or 6-day work week system. According to Article 71 of the Labor Code, standard working hours must not exceed 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week. Employees working under hazardous or physically demanding conditions benefit from reduced weekly hours, capped at 36 hours maximum.

Mandatory Rest Periods and Breaks

The legislation ensures adequate rest periods through several key provisions:

Minimum 12-hour daily rest periods between shifts
Weekly rest days: 2 days for 5-day work weeks, 1 day for 6-day work weeks
Flexible scheduling arrangements for shift workers through contractual agreements

Special provisions exist for employees with young children, including feeding breaks for mothers with infants under 1.5 years. These breaks are compensated as working time and can be scheduled according to employee preference.

Employers must maintain accurate timekeeping systems documenting regular hours, overtime, night shifts, and weekend work. This transparency helps prevent labor violations and ensures proper compensation.

Night Shift Regulations and Compensation

Night work in Kazakhstan spans from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Employers must conduct risk assessments and provide regular medical examinations for night workers. Certain employee categories, including pregnant women and minors, are prohibited from night work entirely.

Night shift compensation requires at least 150% of standard hourly rates. When night work coincides with holidays or weekends, both premium payments apply cumulatively.

Overtime Provisions and Limitations

Overtime work requires employee consent except in emergency situations. Daily overtime is limited to 2 hours (1 hour for hazardous work), with annual caps at 120 hours. Certain employee groups are exempt from overtime requirements entirely.

Overtime compensation starts at 150% of regular pay for hourly workers. Alternatively, employees may choose compensatory time off at a 1:1 ratio for overtime hours worked.

Youth Employment Restrictions

Kazakhstan imposes strict limitations on minor employment:

14-16 years: maximum 24 hours weekly
16-18 years: maximum 36 hours weekly

Minors cannot work night shifts, overtime, or in hazardous occupations. Special permissions apply only to artistic performances and creative activities.

Employment Contract Requirements in Kazakhstan

Standard employment contracts begin at age 18, with exceptions for younger workers under specific conditions. Contracts must include comprehensive details about both parties, job responsibilities, compensation, and working conditions.

Essential Contract Elements

Kazakhstani employment contracts must contain:

Complete identification details for both employer and employee
Clear job description and responsibilities
Work location specifications
Contract duration and start date
Detailed working hours and rest periods
Compensation structure and payment terms
Health and safety provisions for hazardous work
Termination procedures and dispute resolution mechanisms

Probation Period Guidelines

Standard probation periods extend up to 3 months, with 6-month maximums for senior positions. Employers may terminate employment during probation with proper notice, though specific notice periods vary by contractual agreement.

International companies often benefit from professional guidance when navigating Kazakhstan's labor regulations. SailGlobal offers comprehensive compliance consulting services to help businesses establish legally sound employment practices while avoiding potential penalties.

Kazakhstan Labor Laws: Working Hours, Overtime & Employment Contracts Guide