Going forward, alongside marriage, people will continue to enjoy the right to enter into a registered partnership.
Couples who enter into a registered partnership will also be able to convert their status to marriage in a simplified procedure should they wish to do so.
Both marriage and registered partnerships bring rights and obligations for couples which do not extend to those in de facto relationships.
While Estonia passed the Registered Partnership Act back in 2014, its implementing provisions, or other amendments necessary for its full implementation, were shelved for years.
With Tuesday's decision, Estonia becomes the second country in Eastern Europe to allow same-sex marriage, following Slovenia.
Minister of Social Protection Signe Riisalo (Reform) said that marriage equality will make Estonia a more inclusive and considerate place.
I am delighted that the decision has now been taken for a more forward-looking Estonia that cares for all.". »