There have been some positive improvements for raising the minimum wage in all three Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania) in recent years. And there are more to come. In 2016 minimum wage is set to rise in all Baltic states. Estonia will have a minimum wage of EUR 430; Latvia - EUR 370 and Lithuania - EUR 350.
Update: Minimum Wage Set to Rise in the Baltic States in 2018
Here are my previous articles about minimum wage in Baltic states:
Minimum wage in the Baltic States 2016
| 2016 | 2015 | % change | |
| Estonia | 430 | 390 | 10.25% |
| Latvia | 370 | 360 | 2.77% |
| Lithuania | 350 | 300* | 16.66% |
*Minimum wage in Lithuania was increased twice in 2015; to EUR 300 at the start of 2015 and to EUR 325 in July 2015
Estonia is leading this trio with pretty impressive monthly minimum wage advantage of EUR 60 if compared to Latvia, and even EUR 80 if compared to Lithuania. On a yearly basis, it makes a huge EUR 720 and EUR 960 difference.
Estonia - EUR 430 / USD 468
- The minimum wage in Estonia is set to jump €40 a month in 2016, and another €40 in 2017. Read more: Minimum Wage in Estonia to Rise in 2016 and 2017
- Currently (2015) the minimum wage in Estonia is €390 a month and unions have agreed with policymakers to increase the rate to €430 in 2016. This will be followed by another increase to €470 in 2017. The rise represents an increase of more than 20%
Latvia - EUR 370 / USD 402
- The ministers in Latvia agreed on the most significant matters regarding next year's budget – to increase the minimum wage to EUR 370. Read more: Latvian government approves budget draft for 2016
Lithuania - EUR 350 / USD 380
- The minimum monthly wage in Lithuania will be increased by 25 euros to 325 euros in July and may be raised by a further 25 euros to 350 euros early in 2016, Prime Minister Algirdas Butkevičius has said. Read more: Lithuanian government to raise minimum pay to EUR 350
I forecast that by 2018 minimum wage in Estonia will be set at least EUR 500. While it will be tough to catch up Estonia in terms of minimum wage both for Latvia and Lithuania I believe it's good you have such a competitive neighbors that keep you motivated. Let's wish prosperity for Baltic's and all the rest of World in coming years!