A notice period is the length of time between when an employee or employer formally announces the end of employment (such as through resignation or dismissal) and the employee's last working day. It allows both parties to prepare for the transition, including handing over duties and arranging replacements
. Notice periods can be:
- Statutory: The minimum notice required by law, varying by country. For example, in the UK, statutory notice ranges from one week to 12 weeks depending on length of service
- Contractual: Specified in the employment contract and can be longer than the statutory minimum. This period is legally binding and provides clarity for both parties
- Probationary: Often shorter or sometimes nonexistent during a probation period
Typical notice periods range from two weeks to three months, depending on contract terms, industry, and local laws
. Some employers may also offer alternatives like payment in lieu of notice or garden leave, where the employee is paid but does not work during the notice period
. The notice period benefits the employer by allowing time to find a replacement and maintain operational continuity, and benefits the employee by providing time to prepare for leaving the job
