New Labor Code: Changes and Innovations

The new draft of the Labor Code of Ukraine introduces significant changes that align with modern labor market requirements. It includes contemporary employment formats such as remote work, home-based work, and flexible working hours. According to Deputy Minister of Economy Daria Marchak, the annual paid leave is set to increase to 28 days, in line with European standards.
The number of types of labor contracts will rise from six to nine. Remote work will be recognized as a distinct type of labor contract, which must be agreed upon by both the employer and the employee.
Additionally, the code allows for a combination of remote work with office work, enabling employees to work in the office for two days and remotely for three days, with all conditions documented in the labor contract.
The code also specifies priority conditions for remote work for certain categories of employees, such as pregnant women or those caring for young children. In cases of harassment or discrimination, employees may be allowed to transition to remote work.
Moreover, the new code eliminates outdated restrictions that prevent women with children under three from working night shifts, adapting legislation to contemporary circumstances.
Another important change concerns leave entitlements. While the current labor legislation stipulates only 24 calendar days of leave per year, the new code proposes 28 days, aligning with European norms.
After the adoption of the new Labor Code, employers will not be required to re-sign contracts, though if labor relations are not formalized, employers will have one year to do so.