Multiple Employment Relationships: Can an employee hold multiple employment relationships at the same time?
Hungarian labor law allows employees to enter into multiple employment relationships concurrently. This means that an employee may lawfully take up a second job, provided that it does not harm the legitimate business interests of their primary employer. Holding a multiple employment relationship is not prohibited, but specific legal conditions apply.
When can the employer restrict or prohibit parallel employment?
An employer may only restrict or prohibit a multiple employment relationship if it creates a conflict of interest – such as employment with a direct competitor. In the case of executive employees, the Hungarian Labour Code specifically prohibits the establishment of any additional employment-type relationship, unless otherwise agreed with the employer in writing.
What can employers expect from employees with multiple jobs?
An employee must be able to perform their duties properly in each employment relationship. Regardless of how many jobs an employee has, every employer has the right to expect punctual attendance, fitness for work, and full compliance with employment obligations. Employees should maintain only as many employment relationships as they can fully satisfy.
Legal boundaries: Working hours, leave, and sick pay
Each employment relationship is treated independently under Hungarian labor law. Therefore, the rules regarding working time limits, rest periods, paid leave, and sick leave must be observed separately for each employment. This includes submitting sick notes and requesting leave for each job independently.
Can a second job affect base salary?
Even if an employee earns additional income through a second job, the salary in each employment relationship must meet the minimum wage or guaranteed wage minimum set by law. Employers cannot pay below this threshold in any of the employment relationships.
Simultaneous job duties during working hours – What to avoid
Employers should ensure that employees do not perform duties from one job during the working hours of another. For instance, a personal assistant working for one employer should not provide customer service for another employer during paid hours. If both employers agree to such an arrangement, it may be advisable to establish a joint employment relationship with multiple employers.
Must the employee notify the employer of another job?
According to the Hungarian Labour Code, employees have a general duty of cooperation. Therefore, they are required to inform their employer of any additional employment relationship. This is crucial for the employer to evaluate risks such as fatigue or reduced attention and to ensure a healthy and safe working environment.
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Our legal support offer
At Katona és Társai Ügyvédi Társulás, we specialize in labor law. We provide tailored legal services to employers, including the drafting of internal policies, employment contract clauses, and employee notifications concerning multiple employment relationships. We help ensure your HR practices meet legal compliance while protecting your company’s interests.
Dr. Katona Géza, LL.M. ügyvéd (Rechtsanwalt / attorney at law)
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Katona és Társai Ügyvédi Társulás
(Katona & Partner Rechtsanwaltssozietät / Attorneys’ Association)
H-106 Budapest, Tündérfürt utca 4.
Tel.: +36 1 225 25 30
Mobil: + 36 70 344 0388
Fax: +36 1 700 27 57