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Estonia – Finding Employment

If you are looking for employment in Estonia, there are a few things to keep in mind. In this article, we will provide an overview of the job market in Estonia, workplace culture, major recruitment agencies and job sites, typical CV structure, and job application process. We will also cover the process of transferring qualifications from your home country to Estonia.

Job Market in Estonia

The job market in Estonia is relatively small, but there are still opportunities available in a variety of industries, including IT, finance, and logistics. Many expats find work in teaching English, working for NGOs or international organizations, or in the hospitality industry.

Salaries in Estonia can vary widely depending on the industry and location. In major cities such as Tallinn, salaries tend to be higher than in rural areas. The minimum wage in Estonia is currently set at 584 euros per month.

Workplace Culture in Estonia

The workplace culture in Estonia can be quite informal, with a relatively flat organizational structure and emphasis on collaboration and teamwork. It is important to be punctual and reliable, and to communicate clearly and honestly with colleagues and managers.

Estonian is the official language of Estonia, so proficiency in Estonian may be required for some jobs. However, many companies also use English as a working language, particularly in the IT and finance sectors.

Recruitment Agencies and Job Sites in Estonia

There are several recruitment agencies and job sites in Estonia that can help you find employment. Some of the major recruitment agencies include:


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Some of the major job sites in Estonia include:

Typical CV Structure in Estonia

The typical CV structure in Estonia is similar to that in other countries, with a few key differences. Here is an example of a typical CV structure in Estonia:

  • Personal information: Name, contact information, date of birth, nationality
  • Education: List your academic qualifications, starting with the most recent. Include the name of the institution, degree obtained, and date of graduation.
  • Work experience: List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent. Include the name of the company, job title, dates of employment, and a brief description of your responsibilities.
  • Skills: List any relevant skills, such as language proficiency, computer skills, or specific industry knowledge.
  • References: Include the names and contact information of two or three professional references.

Job Application Process in Estonia

The job application process in Estonia typically involves submitting a CV and cover letter to the company or organization you are interested in. Some companies may also require you to complete an application form or provide additional documentation, such as academic transcripts or certificates.

If your application is successful, you may be invited to an interview, which could be in person or conducted via video call. Interviews in Estonia tend to be relatively informal, and it is important to be prepared to discuss your skills and experience in detail.

Transferring Qualifications in Estonia

If you are seeking employment in Estonia and have qualifications from your home country, you may need to have them recognized in Estonia in order to be eligible for certain jobs. The process of transferring qualifications in Estonia is overseen by the Estonian Qualifications Authority.

To have your qualifications recognized in Estonia, you will need to submit several documents, including your academic transcripts and certificates, as well as proof of identity and residency. You may also need to provide a sworn translation of your documents into Estonian. The Estonian Qualifications Authority will review your qualifications and determine whether they are equivalent to those required for the profession you are seeking.

In some cases, you may also need to take additional courses or exams in order to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a particular area. For example, if you are seeking to practice law in Estonia, you may need to take a bar exam in addition to having your qualifications recognized.

It is important to note that the process of transferring qualifications in Estonia can be time-consuming and may require the assistance of a lawyer or other professional. It is also important to research the specific requirements for your profession in Estonia in order to ensure that you have all the necessary qualifications and documentation.

Finding employment in Estonia can be challenging, but there are still opportunities available in a variety of industries. It is important to have a good understanding of the job market, workplace culture, and application process in order to increase your chances of success. By following the tips and information provided in this article, you can be well-prepared to start your job search in Estonia.