Minor? What you need to know before you get hired

In Romania, labor law offers special protection to minors who want to get hired. If you are under 18 and want a job, it is essential to know the legal conditions and your rights.

1. Minimum age for employment

1.1. General conditions

• Minors can be legally employed from the age of 15, but between 15 and 16 the written agreement of the parents or legal representatives is required. After the age of 16, this agreement is no longer necessary.
• Minors under the age of 15 can only work in cultural, artistic or sports activities, with the approval of the competent authorities.

1.2. Allowed activities

• It is forbidden to employ minors in dangerous activities or that may affect their health.
• Light work is allowed, but must not interfere with school.

2. Minors' rights in the workplace

2.1. Health and safety protection

• Employers must ensure working conditions adapted to the age of minors.
• Minors must benefit from specific training in the field of OHS.

2.2. Working hours

• Minors between 15 and 18 years old can work a maximum of 6 hours per day and 30 hours per week..
  • Young people cannot perform overtime work;
  • Young people cannot perform night work;

2.3. Right to education

• The working hours of minors must be compatible with school attendance.

3. Employer's obligations towards minors

3.1. Adapting the workplace

• Employers must carry out a risk assessment to eliminate dangerous activities for minors.

3.2. Health monitoring

• Minors must benefit from periodic medical check-ups.

3.3. Conclusion of the contract

• The contract must be written and include all relevant details about duties, salary and schedule.

4. Special rules for minors

4.1. Prohibitions

• Minors cannot work in toxic environments, with dangerous substances or heavy equipment.

4.2. Wage rights

• Minors must be remunerated at least at the level of the gross minimum wage per country for the work performed.

5. Tips for minors

• Discuss with your parents before accepting a job.
• Read the contract carefully before signing.

6. Useful resources

• Official website of the Labor Inspection
• Territorial Labor Inspectorates