In the Russian Federation, starting September 1, 2026, organizations will be permitted to increase the annual overtime limit from 120 to 240 hours. This innovation must be stipulated in collective bargaining agreements or industry-specific agreements.
It is emphasized that these changes are not mandatory for all employees. Written consent from the employee is required to engage them in overtime work. Furthermore, the employer may grant the employee the right to choose between increased pay or additional time off.
Regarding the payment procedure, the first two hours within the annual limit are paid at no less than one and a half times the regular rate, while subsequent hours are paid at no less than double the rate. Starting from the 121st hour, every additional hour of overtime must be paid at at least double the rate.
This rule does not apply to employees working in hazardous conditions of the third and fourth degree (e.g., miners, divers). Additionally, the prohibition on engaging pregnant women, minors, and employees working under apprenticeship contracts in overtime remains in effect.
Before engaging an employee for more than 120 hours of overtime, the employer must consider the state of their health. For employees nearing retirement age, pensioners, and specialists working in hazardous conditions of the first and second degree, overtime work is carried out only with their written consent.
