Explore Estonia

Explore Estonia

  • Written by Jisan Khan .

Estonia is a dynamic and digitally advanced country in Northern Europe, bordered by the Baltic Sea, Russia, and Latvia. Known for its medieval architecture, clean environment, and tech-savvy population, Estonia has become a popular destination for both tourists and expatriates. As a member of the EU and Schengen Area, it offers great access to Europe and high standards of living.

  • Capital

Tallinn

  • Currency

Euro (€)

  • Languages

Estonian (official)
Russian, English, and Finnish are also widely spoken.

  • Best universities

  • University of Tartu

  • Tallinn University of Technology

  • Estonian Business School

  • Quality of life

7.6/10 – Estonia offers a clean, safe, and modern environment with a strong focus on digital innovation and nature.

  • Crime rate

Low – Generally considered one of the safest countries in Europe.

Visas & Immigration in Estonia

Estonia offers various visa options for foreigners who wish to visit, study, work, or settle in the country. As a member of the Schengen Area, Estonia follows EU immigration rules. Depending on the purpose and length of your stay, you may need a short-stay visa, long-stay (D) visa, or a residence permit.

  • Types of visas

  • Schengen Visa (Type C)
    For short stays (up to 90 days) within a 180-day period, mainly for tourism, business, or family visits.

  • Long-Stay Visa (Type D)
    Required for stays longer than 90 days, typically for work, study, or joining a family member.

  • EU Blue Card
    A work and residence permit for highly skilled non-EU nationals employed in Estonia.

  • Startup Visa
    For non-EU entrepreneurs who wish to start a tech-based or innovative business in Estonia.

  • Student Visa
    Granted to international students enrolled in Estonian universities or educational institutions.

  • Job Seeker Visa
    Allows recent Estonian university graduates or qualified foreign professionals to stay and look for work.

Taxes in Estonia

Estonia has a simple and transparent tax system. It is well known for its corporate tax policy, where undistributed profits are not taxed. Both residents and non-residents are subject to taxation based on their income sources and residency status.

  • Common Types of Taxes

  • Income Tax
    Flat 20% rate on personal income.

  • Value-Added Tax (VAT)
    Standard rate is 20%; reduced rate of 9% applies to certain goods and services.

  • Social Security Contributions
    Paid by employers (~33%); covers pension, health, and unemployment insurance.

  • Capital Gains Tax
    Taxed as part of income (20%).

  • Real Estate Transfer Tax
    Not applicable in Estonia. Instead, notary and registration fees apply.

  • Property Tax
    Land tax is levied on landowners at a municipal level (0.1–2.5%).

  • Insurance Tax
    Not a separate tax, but some policies may include indirect taxation.

Cost of Living in Estonia

Estonia offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many Western European countries. Major expenses include housing, food, transportation, and utilities. Prices are typically higher in Tallinn, the capital, while smaller towns offer more budget-friendly options.

  • Most expensive cities

  • Tallinn

  • Tartu

  • Pärnu

  • Most affordable cities

  • Narva

  • Viljandi

  • Valga

  •  
  • Average rent

  • €400–€600/month for a one-bedroom apartment in Tallinn

  • €250–€400/month in smaller towns

  • Monthly living costs

  • Around €700–€900 for a single person, including rent, food, transport, and utilities

Global firms recruiting in Estonia

Estonia has become a growing hub for tech innovation and digital services, attracting global companies and startups alike. Thanks to its digital infrastructure, e-residency program, and pro-business environment, many international firms operate in Estonia and regularly recruit both local and international talent.

 

In-demand sectors:

  • IT & Software Development

  • Cybersecurity

  • Fintech

  • Customer Support

  • Engineering

 

Jobs in Estonia

Estonia’s job market offers a wide range of employment opportunities, especially in key sectors such as information technology (IT), engineering, healthcare, and travel services. These industries continue to grow and are actively seeking skilled professionals, both locally and internationally.

International candidates can benefit from Estonia’s Skilled Worker visa programs, which support immigration for individuals with relevant experience and qualifications. The country’s open and digital economy makes it especially attractive for professionals in the tech industry.

Job seekers commonly use popular job platforms such as LinkedIn, CV.ee, and Work in Estonia to find employment opportunities. Salaries in Estonia vary depending on the field, level of experience, and location, with many employers offering competitive compensation packages and benefits.

 

  • Leading employment industries

  • Travel Services – including tourism and hospitality roles in hotels, agencies, and attractions.

  • Engineering and Technology – Estonia is a growing hub for startups and tech development.

  • Healthcare – there is continuous demand for trained medical professionals and support staff.

  • In-demand careers

  • Software Engineers – Estonia’s digital infrastructure fuels demand for programmers and developers.

  • Specialists in the Tourism Industry – particularly in customer-facing and travel-related roles.

  • Medical Professionals – such as doctors, nurses, and caregivers, especially in urban areas.

Salaries in Estonia

Salaries in Estonia vary depending on industry, location, and experience. High-paying sectors include finance, technology, and healthcare. Wages also differ across regions, with urban areas such as Tallinn typically offering higher salaries due to a higher cost of living.

  • Bonuses

  • Pension plans

  • Paid holidays

  • Private healthcare

Salary levels generally increase with experience and professional skills.

  • Average salary

  • €25,457 per year (gross)

  • Common high-paying sectors:
    • Engineering and technology
    • Healthcare

  • Minimum wage

  • No fixed national minimum wage

  • Average hourly rate: €19.23

Estonia health services and coverage

Estonia offers a universal healthcare system funded through the Estonian Health Insurance Fund (EHIF). Residents with registered employment or who pay social tax are eligible for a wide range of free or subsidized medical services, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and emergency treatment.

Estonia also has digital health records and e-prescriptions, improving access and efficiency in care delivery. Private health insurance is available for faster services or more extensive coverage.

  • Various health insurance options

  • Public health insurance through the Estonian Health Insurance Fund (EHIF) for employed residents.

  • Covers general practitioners, specialists, hospitalization, and more.

  • Private health insurance expenses

  • Optional for additional or faster services.

  • Costs vary by provider; some employers offer private insurance as a benefit.

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Cities in Estonia

Estonia features several dynamic cities, each with its own charm, economic opportunities, and cultural heritage. Tallinn, the capital, stands out with its historic Old Town, digital innovation, and growing job market. Other key cities include Tartu, known for its academic atmosphere and vibrant youth culture, and Pärnu, a seaside town popular for tourism and wellness industries.

These cities offer excellent options for work, study, and lifestyle, with modern infrastructure and a high standard of living.

  • Top relocation cities worldwide

  • Tallinn: The capital and tech hub of Estonia, known for its medieval charm and digital advancement.

  • Tartu: A university city rich in culture and innovation, ideal for students and researchers.

  • Pärnu: Estonia’s summer capital, famous for beaches, spas, and hospitality jobs.

Relocation services in Estonia

Relocation companies in Estonia assist individuals and businesses in moving to the country. They offer services such as visa support, housing assistance, job placement, and help with settling in. These services are designed to make the transition smoother for expats by providing guidance on local laws, language, and cultural adaptation, ensuring a stress-free relocation experience.

Whether you’re moving for work, study, or business, Estonia’s relocation services provide essential support for a successful start in the country.

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