The labour reform has introduced changes to apprenticeship contracts.
The training and apprenticeship contract is now known as a work-study contract. Previously, these contracts could only be used to combine employment with vocational training. They can now be entered into with students undertaking university studies or other specified training programmes. Furthermore:
- Age limits (between 16 and 25 years old, except for workers with disabilities) are removed. If the contract is entered into under Level 1 and 2 vocational qualifications or through the National Employment System, it may only be concluded with people aged up to 30, except in cases of disability.
- This contract may be used even if the worker already holds a qualification, provided that they have not previously had a training contract at the same level of training and in the same sector.
- The training plan will specify the minimum and maximum duration of this type of contract, with a minimum of three months and a maximum of two years.
- Only one work-study contract may be entered into per student and per company for each vocational training course or university degree programme. However, a student may enter into several work-study contracts with different companies in relation to the same course of study, provided that each contract covers different activities. That said, the total duration of all contracts must not exceed two years.
- Actual working hours must not exceed 65 per cent during the first year or 85 per cent during the second. Employees may not work additional or overtime hours, except in the event of accidents or other extraordinary and urgent circumstances. Nor may they work night shifts or shift work.
- The collective agreement shall determine the pay for these workers. In the absence of such an agreement, their pay may not be less than 60% in the first year or 75% in the second year of the pay applicable to the relevant occupational group and pay grade, in proportion to the hours worked. Under no circumstances shall their pay be less than the minimum wage in proportion to the hours actually worked.
