Examining work hours across different European countries reveals not only the economic demands placed on workers but also cultural attitudes towards work. While some countries prioritize work-life balance, others emphasize longer hours to drive economic growth and productivity.
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Top 7 European Countries Where People Work the Most Hours
Average Work Time in the EU
In 2023, the average working week for individuals aged 20-64 in the European Union (EU) was 36.1 hours. This average, however, masks significant differences between countries, where work hours can vary widely due to diverse economic activities, labor laws, and cultural attitudes.
Countries with high economic demands and less stringent labor regulations often see longer work weeks. Understanding these differences provides a comprehensive view of how labor forces are managed and the socio-economic factors at play across Europe.
7. Bosnia & Herzegovina (41.1 Hours)
Bosnia and Herzegovina averages 41.1 work hours per week, placing it among the European countries with the longest working weeks. The economy is driven by manufacturing, energy production, and trade-related services, contributing to a GDP of approximately $30 billion. Despite structural challenges, the country continues to integrate into regional supply chains across Southeast Europe.
The unemployment rate in Bosnia and Herzegovina remains relatively high, estimated at around 12–13%, reflecting ongoing labor market reforms. Growth opportunities are emerging in manufacturing, renewable energy, and export-oriented industries, supported by competitive labor costs and geographic proximity to EU markets.
Learn more about expanding into Bosnia and Herzegovina with our in-depth EOR guide.
6. Türkiye (44.0 Hours)
Türkiye records the longest average working week in Europe at 44.0 hours. Its large and diversified economy spans manufacturing, automotive, textiles, tourism, and services, resulting in a GDP of approximately $1.3 trillion. Long working hours are common across both industrial and service sectors, particularly in urban and export-driven regions.
The unemployment rate in 2024–2025 has remained in the 8–9% range, reflecting steady economic activity amid inflationary pressures. Key growth industries include manufacturing, technology, logistics, and renewable energy. Türkiye’s scale, skilled workforce, and strategic location between Europe and Asia continue to attract international businesses.
Learn more about expanding into Türkiye with our in-depth EOR guide.
5. Bulgaria (39.0 Hours)
Bulgaria records an average working week of 39.0 hours. Known for its diverse economy, Bulgaria excels in sectors such as energy, mining, metallurgy, and agriculture. The country boasts a GDP of approximately $80 billion. Despite facing some economic challenges, Bulgaria’s unemployment rate in 2024 is expected to be around 5.7%.
Prominent growth industries include information technology and outsourcing services, driven by a skilled workforce and competitive operating costs. Bulgaria’s strategic location and investment incentives make it an attractive destination for businesses looking to expand in Eastern Europe.
Learn more about expanding into Bulgaria with our in-depth EOR guide.
4. Poland (39.3 Hours)
Poland, with its rapidly growing economy, averages 39.3 work hours per week. The Polish economy thrives on manufacturing, mining, and agriculture, contributing to a GDP of about $660 billion. In 2024, Poland’s unemployment rate was projected to be a low 3.2%, reflecting a healthy job market.
Key growth sectors include information technology, automotive, and renewable energy, supported by government initiatives and investments. Poland’s business-friendly environment and skilled labor force position it as an ideal location for companies aiming to expand in Central Europe.
Learn more about expanding into Poland with our in-depth EOR guide.
3. Romania (39.5 Hours)
Romania reports an average working week of 39.5 hours. The Romanian economy is diverse, with significant contributions from industries such as automotive, information technology, and agriculture, resulting in a GDP of approximately $300 billion. The unemployment rate in Romania is expected to remain around 4.7%, indicating a stable job market.
Emerging sectors for growth include renewable energy and technology, driven by substantial foreign investments and a skilled workforce. Romania’s strategic location and dynamic economic environment make it an attractive destination for international businesses.
Learn more about expanding into Romania with our in-depth EOR guide.
2. Serbia (41.4 Hours)
Serbia has one of the longest working weeks in Europe, averaging 41.4 hours. The Serbian economy is driven by manufacturing, energy, and mining industries, contributing to a GDP of about $65 billion. In 2024, Serbia’s unemployment rate was expected to be approximately 9.3%, reflecting ongoing economic reforms and development efforts.
Key growth sectors include information technology and telecommunications, supported by government initiatives and investments. Serbia’s strategic location and improving business climate offer significant opportunities for businesses considering expansion in the Balkans.
Learn more about expanding into Serbia with our in-depth EOR guide.
1. Greece (41.7 Hours)
Greece tops the list with the longest average work week of 41.7 hours. Known for its rich history and diverse economy, Greece excels in tourism, shipping, and agriculture, contributing to a GDP of about $230 billion.
The country’s unemployment rate in 2024 was expected to be around 12.8%, reflecting ongoing economic recovery efforts. Key industries for growth include renewable energy and technology, driven by substantial EU funding and national investments. Greece’s favorable climate for innovation and strategic location make it an appealing destination for businesses looking to expand their operations.
Learn more about expanding into Greece with our in-depth EOR guide.
Expand into Europe with INS Global
Expanding your business into Europe offers an unparalleled opportunity to access diverse markets and a highly skilled workforce. However, navigating the complex labor laws and regulatory requirements of each country can be challenging. Many companies entering the region rely on Employer of Record in Germany and Employer of Record in the Netherlands services to meet strict compliance standards and manage cross-border hiring in two of Europe’s most influential markets. INS Global provides comprehensive Employer of Record (EOR) solutions to streamline this process.
Partnering with INS Global ensures that your business remains compliant with local labor laws, manages payroll and taxes efficiently, and handles employee benefits seamlessly. Our expertise in European markets allows you to focus on your core business operations while we take care of the administrative and legal complexities.
Let INS Global be your trusted partner in international expansion. Contact us today to learn how our EOR services can help you successfully establish and grow your presence in Europe.
Conclusion
So, how many hours do European countries work?. In 2023 data, the range across Europe is wide, and the countries at the top of the table show that “Europe” is not a single workweek model. Greece and Serbia sit at the highest end of the scale, followed closely by Romania, Poland, and Bulgaria, while other countries in the region also report very long working weeks. These differences are driven by a mix of labor market structure, sector mix, part-time prevalence, and how work is organized across industries.
For employers, the practical takeaway is simple. Average weekly hours affect more than productivity assumptions. They influence staffing plans, overtime exposure, shift coverage, burnout risk, and ultimately total employment cost. If you are hiring across multiple European countries, aligning your on-the-ground policies with local norms and legal requirements is just as important as benchmarking salaries or benefits.
Expanding into Europe can be a major growth lever, but compliance, payroll, and HR administration vary significantly from one country to the next. INS Global supports international hiring through Employer of Record (EOR) services, helping businesses stay compliant, manage payroll and taxes, and scale teams efficiently across borders. Contact us to discuss how we can support your expansion plans in Europe.
