Tähtajaliste

Tähtajaliste is an Estonian term that translates to "fixed-term" in English. It most commonly refers to a type of employment contract where the duration of employment is predetermined. Unlike indefinite-term contracts, a tähtajaline contract has a specific start and end date. This means that upon reaching the end date, the employment relationship automatically terminates, unless a new contract is established or the existing one is extended.

The use of tähtajaliste contracts is regulated by Estonian labor law. There are specific conditions under which employers can offer fixed-term employment. These typically include situations where the nature of the work is temporary, such as seasonal jobs, project-based work, or when replacing an employee on leave. Estonian law also sets limits on the duration of fixed-term contracts and the number of renewals allowed to prevent their misuse as a means to circumvent the protections afforded to permanent employees.

Tähtajaliste contracts can offer flexibility for both employers and employees. Employers can adjust their workforce according to fluctuating business needs, while employees might find opportunities for specific projects or temporary roles. However, the inherent lack of long-term security can be a drawback for employees, and the legal framework aims to strike a balance between this flexibility and the protection of workers' rights.