No. Child labor under 14 is illegal in Iceland under the Act on the Protection of Children and Adolescents (No. 80/2002), enforced by the Children’s Ombudsman and Directorate of Labour. Exceptions exist only for light cultural or educational activities with strict parental and school approval.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in Iceland
- Prohibition of Employment: Children under 14 may not engage in paid or unpaid labor, including family businesses, except under exceptional permits for artistic or athletic performances.
- Educational Exemptions: Participation in school-organized work experience programs is permitted but requires prior approval from the Ministry of Education and Children and adheres to age-appropriate limits.
- Parental Consent & Supervision: Any exception mandates written consent from both parents/guardians and direct supervision by a responsible adult, with activities restricted to 2 hours daily and 10 hours weekly.
The 2026 amendment to the Act tightens oversight by requiring employers to submit compliance reports to the Directorate of Labour for any permitted activities, aligning with Iceland’s UN Convention on the Rights of the Child obligations. Violations risk fines up to ISK 1 million (≈€7,000) and potential criminal liability under Article 119 of the Penal Code.