Which type of contract is limited to a specific period?

A fixed term contract is specifically designed for employment that is set to last for a defined period, after which the contract automatically concludes. This type of contract is common in situations where a project has a clear start and end date, or when hiring is contingent on specific funding or time-limited projects.

For example, a company may hire an employee on a fixed term contract to cover maternity leave for a year or to fulfill a specific contractual obligation that lasts until a particular date. Fixed term contracts provide both the employer and the employee with clarity regarding the duration of employment and the associated terms.

In contrast, a zero hours contract does not guarantee any hours of work, making its duration unpredictable. A freelance contract typically involves independent work without a predetermined end date, depending on the completion of specific deliverables. A part-time contract usually refers to the number of hours worked rather than the duration of employment. Thus, fixed term contracts are distinct in their definition and application, aligning perfectly with the question regarding contracts limited to a specific period.