Estonia’s New Rules on Employing Minors

From 1 September 2025, employers in Estonia must adapt to updated rules when hiring minors, as the government strengthens measures to ensure that young employees can continue their compulsory education uninterrupted. Here's what you need to know to stay compliant and support young workers effectively.

• Parental and minor consent is required for all employment contracts involving minors.

• For children aged 7–12, employers must notify the Employment Register at least 10 working days before the job starts; work can begin only if the Labor Inspectorate raises no objections.

• Employers must provide detailed information to the Labor Inspectorate about working hours, duties, potential risks, and safety measures.

• Work for ages 7–12 is limited to light tasks in culture, sports, and arts.

• For ages 13–16 still in school, only simple and safe work is permitted, including cleaning, auxiliary retail/catering roles, and agricultural tasks.

• The compulsory education age rises to 18, which impacts working hours and job options for teenagers still in school.

• Restrictions on work involving alcohol and cash handling will be eased, but strict safety rules remain.

• Working hours stay limited: up to 4 hours/day for 14–15-year-olds, and up to 6 hours/day for 16–18-year-olds.

  
  

Businesses employing young people should review contracts, update HR procedures, and ensure managers understand the new requirements before the September deadline.