Prøvetidsansettelse

Prøvetidsansettelse, often translated as probationary employment, is a period at the beginning of a new employment contract in Norway. It serves as a mutual trial period for both the employer and the employee. During this time, the employer can assess the employee's suitability for the role and the workplace, while the employee can evaluate whether the job and company are a good fit for them.

The maximum duration for a probationary period is typically six months, unless otherwise agreed upon or specified in a collective bargaining agreement. During this period, the employment can be terminated by either party with a shorter notice period than usual. For the employee, this notice period is generally 14 days, while for the employer, it is usually one month. However, exceptions exist, and the contract or relevant legislation should always be consulted for precise details.

Termination during the probationary period requires a valid reason. For the employer, this usually relates to the employee's professional suitability, their working capacity, or organizational matters. The employer must provide a written justification for the termination. If the employee wishes to terminate their employment during probation, they are generally not required to provide a reason, although good practice might suggest it.

Upon successful completion of the probationary period, the employment contract continues under the normal terms and conditions, including the standard notice periods for termination. This period is a crucial element of the Norwegian labor market, balancing flexibility for employers with a degree of security for new hires.