työsopimuskausi

Työsopimuskausi refers to the period of employment defined by a fixed-term employment contract in Finland. Unlike an indefinite employment contract, a työsopimuskausi has a predetermined start and end date. When this period concludes, the employment relationship automatically terminates without the need for notice from either party, unless the contract explicitly states otherwise or is extended.

Fixed-term employment contracts are typically used for specific purposes, such as covering for an employee on leave, completing a particular project, or during a probationary period. However, the use of fixed-term contracts is regulated to prevent their abuse. Finnish labor law stipulates that fixed-term employment may only be justified by objective reasons, such as the nature of the work, a temporary need for labor, or the replacement of another employee. Repeated use of fixed-term contracts for the same or similar tasks without objective justification can be deemed equivalent to an indefinite employment relationship.

During the työsopimuskausi, the employee has the same rights and obligations as an employee with an indefinite contract, including the right to salary, holidays, and other benefits as stipulated by law and the collective agreement. Upon the termination of the työsopimuskausi, the employer is not obligated to provide severance pay, unlike in cases of termination of an indefinite contract by the employer, unless otherwise agreed or provided by law in specific circumstances.