Estonia, the little gem of the Baltic, is emerging as a European tech hub and has been called the “Silicon Valley of Europe”. Its vibrant economy, competitive wages and innovative environment make it a great location for international talent. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore high-demand skills shortage jobs in Estonia, reasons why foreign professionals should consider working in Estonia, and how to get a work visa for this promising destination process.
Estonia’s Skill Shortage: A Gateway for Worldwide Talent
The rapid growth of Estonia’s economy, combined with an aging workforce and a rapidly growing technology industry, has created skills shortages across all sectors. According to the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (CEDEFOP), the major sectors facing talent shortages include software development, engineering, and healthcare. These departments are actively seeking skilled professionals from around the world to fill positions.
Occupations in High Demand:
- Software and Applications Developers and Analysts
- Electrical, Electronics, Mechanical, and Industrial Engineers
- Production and Operations Managers
- Sales, Construction, and ICT Project Managers
- Business Analysts, Web Developers, and Data Scientists
- Nurses and Teachers
Why Should International Workers Consider Working in Estonia?
1. Competitive Salaries:
Especially in the field of technology and related industries. Estonia offers salaries from 4,000 to 5,000 euros.
2. Low Income Tax:
With a flat income tax rate of twenty persent, Estonia boasts.
3. Digital Governance:
Estonia’s e-government system is significant, allowing citizens to vote, pay taxes, and apply for passports online.
4. Thriving Tech Scene:
Discover the opportunity to work in Europe’s Silicon Valley. Tallinn is a hub of technology innovation where companies offer strong relocation support to international IT workers.
5. High Standard of Living:
Estonia offers an enviable standard of living, from healthcare and higher education to top-notch infrastructure.
Salaries and Taxation in Estonia
Estonia offers attractive salaries, especially in the tech sector, with an attractive tax system. A flat income tax rate of 20% ensures that professionals can enjoy a significant portion of their income, which contributes to high disposable income.
Where You Can Find Jobs
Local, European and international skilled workers and job seekers can find job opportunities in Estonia on various platforms, including:
- The Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
- Eesti Töötukassa (Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund)
- Popular job boards such as CV Keskus,
- Indeed, Work in Estonia,
- CareerBuilder, Monster and Glassdoor.
- Estonian Information and Communication Technology Association
- Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications
How to Get Job in Estonia With Estonian Work Visa?
Estonia offers different types of visas and permits for people who wish to work in the country. These types are:
Types of Estonian work visas:
Estonian short-stay visa (Type C): For stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period, suitable for business trips, attending conferences or short-term training programs.
Estonian long-stay visa (Type D): Suitable for stays of more than 90 days and up to one year, and can be used by people who have secured a job.
Exemption from Estonia Work Visa
Citizens of the (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland do not need a work visa to live or work in Estonia. In addition, citizens of countries that have a visa-free agreement with Estonia can enter the country without a visa for a short-term stay (up to 90 days).
Non-EU-EEA Citizens Need Estonian Work Visa:
If you are from a country outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland, you usually need a visa to work in Estonia.
How to apply?
- research a job: Before applying for a visa,
- Also, your employer must register the job offer with Estonia’s Unemployment Insurance Fund.
- Visit the Estonian embassy or consulate: Submit your Estonian visa application to the nearest Estonian embassy or consulate. The exact procedure may vary by location, so it’s a good idea to check the details and make an appointment if necessary.
- Pay the €80 visa fee: The standard visa application fee for a work visa in Estonia is €80.
- Wait for processing: After you submit your application, wait for it to be processed. This can take several weeks, so it’s important that you apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
- Get your visa: Once your application is approved, you will receive your visa, which will allow you to enter Estonia and start work.
Applying for a residence permit: If you plan to live and work in Estonia for more than one year, you must apply for a temporary residence permit for work. This application can be submitted from your home country after entering Estonia with a D visa or before traveling to Estonia. - The Estonia work visa conditions are worth considering for you right now!
- If you want to get a job with legal rights to start working in Estonia, please ensure the following:
- Comprehensive employment offer agreement.
- Completing the employer registration
- Submit all required documents to the Estonian embassy.
- For more information on job listings and opportunities in Estonia, you can visit websites such as the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Eesti Totukasa (Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund).
External Links:
- Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
- Eesti Töötukassa (Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund)
- CV Keskus
- Indeed
- Work in Estonia
- CareerBuilder
- Monster
- Glassdoor
- Estonian Association of Information Technology and Telecommunications
- Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications