Stricter rules for minors’ employment: limited hours and no night work
Employers are now required to adhere to stricter regulations regarding the working conditions for minors, starting January 1, 2026. Under the new legislation, minors can only be employed from the age of 15 if they have obtained written consent from their parents.
Since January 1, we have implemented strict regulations regarding the working conditions for minors. First and foremost, employers must evaluate workplace risks before hiring minors aged 15 to 18 and inform the employee's representatives about these risks. Although these provisions are not found in the Labor Code, a new article in the Law on Occupational Safety and Health has been introduced to strengthen the rights of minors, said Liuba Mursa, a human resources specialist, during the "Bună dimineața" program on Moldova 1.
Additionally, changes have been made to the Labor Code that address the working hours and rest periods for minor employees. For instance, the working hours for employees aged 15 to 16 will vary depending on whether it is a school or vacation period.
"During holidays, the previous rules still apply, allowing a maximum of 24 hours per week and no more than five hours per day. However, during the school year, minors are limited to no more than 12 hours per week and two hours per day," Liuba Mursa explained.
Moreover, the night shift for minor employees begins at 8:00 PM.
"We are not permitted to require minors to work during nighttime hours, even with their consent or that of their representatives. Therefore, minors aged 15 and 16 cannot work after 8:00 PM", Liuba Mursa warned on Moldova 1.
