arbeidsavtalen

Arbeidsavtalen is the written agreement that formalizes the employment relationship between an employer and an employee in Norway. It outlines the essential terms and conditions of work and is supported by the Working Environment Act (arbeidsmiljøloven), which governs how the relationship should function in the workplace.

The employment can be either permanent (fast) or fixed-term (midlertidig). A probationary period may be included to assess suitability, usually for up to six months, after which the arrangement can be continued, renewed, or terminated under applicable notice rules.

A written arbeidsavtale should cover key information such as the parties, start date, place of work, position and duties, working hours, wages, and any benefits. It should also specify the length of notice for termination and the conditions under which the contract may end. If employment lasts more than one month or the employee requests it, the employer is generally obliged to provide a written contract or a written summary of the main terms. Collective agreements may add or modify terms for specific sectors or workplaces.

Rights and obligations arising from the contract include a wage, holiday entitlement, sick leave and other statutory protections. Employees are obligated to perform the work diligently and follow reasonable instructions and safety rules. Clauses related to confidentiality and non-disclosure are common, while non-compete restrictions must comply with applicable law.

Termination and changes to the contract are governed by statutory rules and any applicable collective agreements. A fixed-term contract ends on its specified date unless renewed; a permanent contract continues until terminated with proper notice. If no written contract exists, statutory terms still apply.

Practical notes: both parties should review the terms carefully, and employees should keep a copy for their records. In Norway, the existence of a written contract complements statutory protections in the arbeidsmiljøloven.