How much do part-time jobs pay in Estonia?
Estonia is one of Europe’s most digitally advanced and student-friendly countries, attracting international students who want to study and gain work experience at the same time.
If you plan to study in Estonia, part-time work can help you cover your living expenses and gain practical exposure to the local job market.
But how much do part-time jobs in Estonia actually pay in 2025? Let’s look at the hourly wages, popular job types, and earning potential for international students and foreign residents.
Average Pay for Part-Time Jobs in Estonia
The average pay for part-time jobs in Estonia ranges between €5 and €15 per hour, depending on your job type, skills, and location.
On average, international students working 20 hours per week earn about €400–€800 per month (before tax).
| Job Type | Average Hourly Pay (€) | Average Monthly Income (20 hrs/week) |
|---|---|---|
| Retail / Café Assistant | 5 – 7 | 400 – 560 |
| Waiter / Hospitality Staff | 6 – 10 | 480 – 800 |
| Administrative Support | 8 – 12 | 640 – 960 |
| Private Tutor / Language Instructor | 10 – 20 | 800 – 1,600 |
| Delivery or Warehouse Helper | 6 – 9 | 480 – 720 |
| IT / Digital Freelance Work | 12 – 20 | 960 – 1,600 |
Note: Figures are approximate and based on 2025 labor data and student employment surveys.
Minimum Wage in Estonia (2025)
Estonia’s national minimum wage as of January 2025 is €886 per month for full-time workers (40 hours/week).
That equals roughly €5.31 per hour (gross).
For part-time jobs, employers must still meet or exceed the hourly minimum wage, even if total hours are fewer.
Common Part-Time Jobs for International Students
Many students in Estonia balance studies and part-time work across various fields. Some popular options include:
1. Retail and Café Jobs
Supermarkets, restaurants, and coffee shops hire students as cashiers, servers, and kitchen assistants.
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Pay: €5–€7 per hour
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Perks: Flexible shifts and customer interaction
2. Hospitality and Tourism
Hotels and hostels in Tallinn, Tartu, and coastal regions hire international students during peak tourist seasons.
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Pay: €6–€10 per hour
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Perks: Free meals or accommodation sometimes provided
3. Tutoring and Language Jobs
If you speak English fluently or have specialized academic skills, private tutoring can be very rewarding.
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Pay: €10–€20 per hour
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Perks: Flexible schedule, remote options
4. Administrative or Campus Work
Universities and startups often hire students for administrative support, data entry, or research assistance.
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Pay: €8–€12 per hour
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Perks: Professional work experience
5. Delivery, Logistics, or Warehouse Jobs
These roles are more physical but pay steady hourly rates with additional bonuses for evening or weekend work.
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Pay: €6–€9 per hour
Work Hours and Rules for International Students
According to Study in Estonia regulations:
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International students can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters.
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During academic breaks or holidays, students may work full-time.
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There is no separate work permit required for students holding a valid Estonian residence permit for studies.
Employers are required to offer fair contracts, and wages must comply with Estonian labor standards.
Taxes and Take-Home Pay
Estonia has a progressive income tax system with a 20% flat income tax. However, students working part-time often earn below the taxable threshold or benefit from deductions.
After tax, most students take home around €400–€700 per month, depending on hours worked and type of employment.
Cost of Living vs Part-Time Earnings
Estonia offers a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to Western Europe. Average monthly student expenses:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared flat) | 250–400 |
| Food & Groceries | 200–300 |
| Transport | 30–50 |
| Utilities & Internet | 60–100 |
With part-time earnings of €500–€700/month, students can comfortably cover a portion of their monthly living costs, especially when sharing housing.
Tips for Finding Part-Time Jobs in Estonia
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Use local job portals like CV.ee, Work in Estonia, and LinkedIn.
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Check university career centers for campus or research assistant roles.
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Network with local students and professors — many part-time jobs are filled through recommendations.
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Consider learning basic Estonian language for better communication and job options.
Key Takeaways
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Part-time jobs in Estonia pay €5–€15 per hour on average.
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Students can legally work 20 hours per week during semesters.
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The minimum hourly wage is around €5.31 in 2025.
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Most part-time workers earn €400–€800 per month (gross).
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With affordable living costs, part-time income can help cover basic expenses.
