Puhkuseperioodide

Puhkuseperioodide refers to periods of rest and vacation. In Estonia, these periods are typically legislated and form a crucial part of an employee's rights. The primary law governing these periods is the Employment Contracts Act, which outlines the minimum entitlement to paid annual leave. Employees are generally entitled to at least 28 calendar days of paid annual leave per year, which translates to four calendar weeks.

The timing of these holidays is usually agreed upon between the employer and the employee. A holiday schedule is often established at the beginning of the year, but deviations can be made with mutual consent. In some cases, employers may have the right to determine the timing of a portion of the leave, especially if it is deemed essential for the smooth operation of the business, though this is subject to certain conditions and notice periods.

It is possible for employees to split their annual leave into multiple parts, provided that at least one part of the holiday lasts for at least 14 consecutive calendar days. This allows for flexibility, enabling employees to take shorter breaks throughout the year in addition to a longer, more substantial vacation. Unused annual leave can generally be carried over to the following year, but there are often limitations on how long it can be deferred. Employees are also entitled to compensation for any unused leave if their employment relationship is terminated. The concept of puhkuseperioodide is fundamental to maintaining work-life balance and employee well-being within the Estonian labor market.