Under the Labour Law, a person may generally enter into employment upon reaching the age of 15, provided that several conditions are met. In addition to parental or legal guardian consent, minors must obtain a medical certificate confirming that the work will not endanger their health, safety or physical and psychological development.
The law also limits the type of work minors may perform. They cannot be employed in hazardous jobs, including work involving dangerous machinery, heavy physical labour, underground work, exposure to harmful chemicals or other activities that could negatively affect their wellbeing or education. Employers are also prohibited from assigning minors to night shifts or overtime work, except in narrowly defined circumstances permitted by law.
In practice, teenagers are most commonly employed in seasonal tourism, hospitality, retail, administrative assistance, agriculture or promotional activities, where working conditions are considered appropriate for their age.
The legislation aims to strike a balance between allowing young people to gain valuable work experience and protecting them from exploitation. A first job can help teenagers develop responsibility, communication skills and financial independence, while also providing practical experience before entering university or the labour market full-time.
At the same time, labour inspectors regularly remind employers that violations involving the employment of minors carry significant penalties. Hiring underage workers without the required documentation or assigning them prohibited tasks can result in substantial fines and other legal consequences.
The topic also raises a broader discussion about youth employment in Serbia. While many parents encourage teenagers to gain early work experience, others argue that summer holidays should primarily remain a period for rest, education and personal development. Ultimately, experts stress that when conducted legally and under appropriate conditions, summer employment can represent an important first step into the world of work, provided that education and the wellbeing of young people remain the priority.
