Education and Science, Estonia, Labour-market, Legislation, Markets and Companies

“The amendments to the Aliens Act have been drafted, taking into account the needs of the Estonian economy, and expectations of the society and many organisations. It will make it easier to bring to Estonia highly qualified labour force,” said Vaher.

He explained that Estonia’s small size means that the country is not able to prepare qualified labour force in all necessary areas. “We currently have approximately 11,000 qualified job vacancies,” he said.

Vaher stated that the Aliens Act provides for an opportunity to bring highly qualified specialists to the country for up to six months with a visa issued in expedited proceedings. If a person wishes to remain in Estonia for longer than six months, for the first time they will be able to apply for a residence permit within the country.

In order to protect the Estonian labour market, the highly qualified specialists have to be paid at least two times of average pay in Estonia. This was a compromise reached at a round-table discussion that involved nearly 30 partner organisations and stakeholder groups.