Germany to replace 8‑hour daily limit with 48‑hour weekly cap

The German government plans to overhaul its long‑standing 8‑hour‑per‑day work‑time rule. Starting in 2027, the daily limit will be replaced by a weekly maximum of 48 hours, mirroring the European Union’s working‑time directive. Under the new framework, individual shifts of up to 13 hours could be scheduled, provided that the statutory 11‑hour rest period between shifts and weekly hour caps are respected.

Supporters say the change will give firms in sectors with peak workloads more scheduling flexibility and help families balance work and life. Trade unions, however, warn that longer shifts may increase fatigue and pressure on employees, urging safeguards to protect health and safety.

The reform also retains existing protections such as compulsory rest periods and the requirement for employers to record working hours, but it shifts the focus from daily to averaged weekly limits.

The legislation is part of the coalition’s labour‑policy agenda and is expected to be debated in parliament before a final vote.