Estonia's Riigikogu Reinstates Full-Time Work for 15-17 Year Olds After Basic School

Riigikogu Approves Expanded Youth Employment Opportunities

Estonia's parliament, the Riigikogu, has approved amendments to its labor laws, reinstating the ability for 15- to 17-year-olds who have completed basic school to work full-time, up to 40 hours a week. The decision, made on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, reverses a previous restriction introduced earlier this year.

Reversal of Recent Restrictions

The new amendments to the Employment Contracts Act restore earlier regulations for this age group. In September 2025, new requirements had taken effect, limiting 15- to 17-year-olds still subject to compulsory education to working only two to three hours per day during the school term, with a maximum of 12 hours per week. Full-time work was permitted only during half of their school holidays. This earlier restriction was partly influenced by a workplace accident and coincided with Estonia extending compulsory education to age 18.

Support from Government and Business Sectors

The decision to allow full-time work for those who have completed basic school has garnered support from government officials and business organizations. Minister of the Economy and Industry Erkki Keldo of the Reform Party stated that 'After basic school, 15- to 17-year-olds, if they feel capable, may work up to 40 hours a week either before or after school.' Similarly, Education and Research Minister Kristina Kallas of Eesti 200 emphasized that it is 'not an obligation to work; it's the right to work,' while affirming that school obligations would remain a priority.

The business community has largely welcomed the reversal. Ain Käpp, board chair at the Estonian Hotel and Restaurant Association (EHRL) and head of the labor market working group at the Estonian Employers' Confederation (ETK), noted that 'Business-owners were very concerned,' particularly in the hospitality sector where 'youth employment and initial work experience are very necessary to both sides.'

Broader Context of Labor Law Changes

Basic school in Estonia typically concludes at the age of 15, after the completion of the 9th grade. The recent legislative changes also include adjustments for younger minors. Limits for 7- to 12-year-olds have been raised, permitting them to work up to five hours per non-school day and 12 hours a week, with up to six hours a day and 30 hours a week during school breaks. The Estonian government is also reportedly planning to ease other restrictions on underage work, such as allowing minors to serve alcohol, with a related bill anticipated in the coming weeks.