If you have a formal employment contract with your employer, you are entitled to holiday. Workplaces usually have a fixed number of days of paid holiday, e.g. 28, 35 or 42 days. In addition, it is also possible to take unpaid holiday and study leave by agreement with your employer.
Holiday is time off from work so the employee can restore their ability to work and prepare for the next period of work. It is important to use your holiday even if you do not feel tired and are eager to work. A well-planned and active holiday helps you manage upcoming work even better.
Annual holiday
Ordinary leave is called an annual holiday, which you earn based on the time you have worked. When on holiday, your employer is obliged to pay you holiday pay.
Employees’ holidays are usually scheduled at the workplace before the start of holiday, or there is collective holiday, during which all employees are off work and the institution is closed. This can be around Christmas, in the middle of summer or at other times. Make sure to ask your future employer about this.
Unpaid holiday
You can also take a holiday without pay. Taking unpaid holiday must be separately arranged with the employer. It can be used to handle unexpected situations, go on a vacation, etc.
Study leave
You have the right to take study leave when you are a student. Its purpose is to allow you to participate in studies. For example, some open university lectures take place on Thursdays or Fridays, or you might need time for more extensive homework or even your thesis. Your employer is obliged to pay you while you are on study leave.
Read also the Holidays Act: https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/689625.
Written based on the Working Life Portal.
