What is "fixed-term contract"

n. A contract which is valid only for a pre-arranged time.

A fixed-term contract is a term usually used to refer to a contractual relationship between an employee and an employer that lasts for a specified period. They are usually regulated by different countries' labour laws, to ensure that employers still fulfill basic labour rights regardless of a contract's form, particularly unjust dismissal. Generally, fixed-term contracts will automatically be deemed to have created a permanent contract, subject to the employer's right to terminate employment on reasonable notice for a good reason. In the European Union the incidence of fixed-term contracts ranges from 6% in the UK to 23% in Spain, with Germany, Italy and France between 13% and 16%.