One job isn't always enough to make ends meet. Working overtime on vacation is then the solution of choice. Yet vacation is for rest and not meant for working. But as we know, what the boss doesn't know can't hurt him. And chronic lack of money gnaws at the nerves, which is why many permanently employed workers very often choose this step. But what is the situation in Austria, and is it legal and correct?

working overtime on vacation

Working Overtime on Vacation - What Does the Legislation Say?

Of course, rest is what vacation is about, and it's the top priority. Only then is good job performance guaranteed throughout the year. Yet year after year, employees settle for working overtime on vacation. Not because it's so much fun, but because it's a must. That's how debts are paid off, a little luxury is afforded and some money flows into the account. So does the legislature set rules here or not?

  • According to Section 8 of the German Federal Vacation Act, no general ban is pronounced
  • no conflicting gainful employment that does not serve the purpose of the vacation should be carried out
  • Rest comes first
  • So no side job may be carried out
  • Charitable work without pay, on the other hand, is allowed
  • Favors for friends, family and neighbors likewise

So the law contradicts itself, and you could almost say anything goes. After all, where there's no plaintiff, there's no judge. Of course, the main employment relationship must always come first and must not suffer.

Working Overtime on Vacation - Exceptions Prove the Rule

If you're in a training relationship, working overtime on vacation is allowed. Apprentices may top up their already low pay during vacation. For regular, permanently employed workers there is no such allowance. And even for apprentices, the side job must not negatively affect the training. After all, anyone who turns up sleep-deprived, late or not at all will be looked into.

And if the side job is to blame, you have to answer for it. So working overtime on vacation has its pros and cons. The appeal and incentive are there, but it can also backfire. So it's better to be open and honest and put your cards on the table. Then the employer knows what's going on and ultimately knows where they stand.

Working Overtime on Vacation - Not Always the Best Choice

Working overtime on vacation is not always the best choice. For one thing, it wears you out, the earnings don't always match the effort, and there is no recovery. In some cases the company's interests in your permanent job are no longer protected. And on the other hand, there are no opportunities to relax. A vacation is therefore a must and is not meant for a side job, nor is it there for working. If you still want to rely on it, you should have a one-on-one conversation with your boss and supervisor.