How many hours is full-time in the UK?

Why does the number of working hours impact your business success?

The number of working hours can significantly impact business success. Factors affected by working hours include: 

• Extended hours may cause burnout and reduce productivity, while shorter hours boost focus.
• Excessive hours can demotivate staff, leading to absenteeism and turnover, whereas reasonable hours improve satisfaction and retention. Offering competitive hours attracts top talent.
• Better work-life balance enhances motivation, creativity, and productivity, benefiting businesses.
• Working hours affect costs, resource use, and the need for overtime or temporary staff. Employers must comply with UK labor laws, such as the Working Time Regulations, which govern working hours, rest breaks, and paid leave.

Is 30 hours a week full-time in the UK?

While 30 hours per week is considered full-time by some employers, it is not a standard definition. However, it is often considered a full-time equivalent (FTE) for some industries or job roles.

Is 40 hours a week full-time in the UK?

Yes, 40 hours per week is commonly considered full-time in the UK, although some employers may require more or fewer hours.

Maximum working hours per week in the UK?

According to the Working Time Regulations, the maximum average working week is 48 hours, including overtime. However, some workers, such as those in the transport industry or emergency services, may be exempt from these regulations.

Full-time vs. part-time hours in the UK?

There is no strict definition of full-time and part-time hours in the UK, as it can vary between employers and industries. However, the following guidelines apply: 

• Full-time: typically 35-40 hours per week
• Part-time: typically less than 30 hours per week

Key takeaways

In the UK, full-time work typically means working 35 hours or more each week, although there isn’t a single legal definition. Many employers see 35 to 40 hours as full-time, and the exact hours you'll work are usually outlined in your employment contract. 

• A common benchmark is 35 hours per week, but this can vary depending on the employer. For example, some workplaces consider a 37.5-hour week (often from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM) or a 40-hour week as full-time. Your employment contract will be the best source for details about your specific working hours, responsibilities, and benefits.

• Additionally, the UK's Working Time Regulations specify that the average working week should not go over 48 hours. However, employees do have the option to agree to work beyond this limit if they choose. 

Remember that these are general guidelines, and specific further clarifications may vary depending on the employer, industry, or job role.

Related: UK Bank Holidays.