During summer, many third-country nationals arrive in Estonia to work during the seasonal peak. Many workers arrive through legal channels but later find themselves in vulnerable situations where their rights are violated. Limited knowledge of local legislation, language barriers, and dependency on employers can make foreign workers particularly susceptible to exploitation.
Here are some common warnings of labour exploitation:
1. Unpaid overtime
In Estonia, full-time work is generally 40 hours per week. Overtime must be agreed upon and compensated either through paid time off or at a rate of 1.5 times the regular wage. Workers who are not compensated for overtime may be experiencing labour exploitation.
2. No written employment contract
Although oral employment agreements can be legally valid, a written contract is essential for protecting workers’ rights. It should clearly specify working hours, wages, duties, workplace location, overtime arrangements, and termination conditions. Employers who avoid providing written agreements may be attempting to conceal unfair practices.
3. Confusion about wage payments
Third-country nationals who come to Estonia specifically for employment and sign a contract directly with an Estonian employer are generally entitled to receive at least the average Estonian salary required under immigration regulations. Delayed payments, unexplained deductions, or wages significantly lower than promised are serious warning signs.
4. Missing necessary work training and equipment
Employers are responsible for providing the tools, protective equipment, and training necessary for safe work. Training must be delivered in a language the employee understands. Workers should never be required to pay for essential work equipment out of their own wages.
5. Inhumane living or working conditions
Workers have the right to safe, hygienic, and dignified accommodation and working conditions. Overcrowded housing, inadequate sanitation, lack of heating, or unsafe workplaces may indicate exploitation.
6. Confiscation of travel documents
Employers have no right to retain workers’ passports, residence permits, or other personal documents. Taking or withholding personal documents is a serious violation and may constitute a criminal offence associated with human trafficking.
7. Threats, intimidation, or violence
No worker should face humiliation, threats, physical violence, sexual harassment, or intimidation. Threatening workers with deportation, withholding wages, or using their immigration status as leverage are common tactics used by exploitative employers.
8. Restriction of freedom of movement
Every person in Estonia has the right to freedom of movement. Employers cannot prevent workers from leaving the workplace during their free time, monitor their movements without justification, or restrict their ability to change employment.
Labour exploitation and human trafficking are often hidden crimes that can occur in any community. If you suspect that someone may be a victim of exploitation, support is available. The Social Insurance Board provides confidential and free assistance, including safe accommodation, legal counselling, psychological support, interpretation services, healthcare assistance, and help communicating with authorities.
For advice or to report concerns, contact the Human Trafficking Prevention and Victim Support Helpline at +372 660 7320. In emergencies or cases involving violence, call 112. More information about workers’ rights in Estonia is available at rights.ee.
