Töölevõtt

Töölevõtt is the Estonian term for the moment of taking up employment, i.e., when a person enters into an employment relationship and begins to work for a specific employer. It marks the transition from being outside that job to performing work tasks under an employment contract. The concept covers both permanent and fixed-term positions and is closely tied to the formation of the employment relationship.

Legal framework and start of employment: The primary rules come from Estonian labour law, notably the Labour Contracts Act. The employment relationship begins on the date specified in the employment contract (tööleping) or, if no start date is stated, on the first day the employee actually performs work for the employer. The agreement outlining the job, duties, salary, working hours, and duration is central to töölevõtt. A probationary period may be agreed, up to four months, during which either party may terminate with shorter notice as provided by law or the contract.

Process and practical steps: After a job offer, the parties sign an employment contract or a written confirmation detailing the essential terms. On the start date, the employee begins performing work and becomes subject to the employer’s supervision and applicable labour laws and internal rules. The employer typically handles initial payroll setup, social security contributions, and related administrative tasks.

Rights and obligations: The employee acquires rights to remuneration, rest breaks, annual leave, and social and health insurance coverage, and must perform duties as agreed and comply with contractual and legal requirements. The employer is obligated to pay wages, provide a safe workplace, inform about working conditions, and adhere to employment law.

See also: employment contract, probationary period, Labour Contracts Act.