Working in Estonia
Some exchange students wish to gain extra working experience and/or financial security through working while they also do their exchange studies at EBS. Working is allowed but there are some restrictions.
Working in Estonia as an EU citizen from EU/EEA country
Students from EU/EEA countries have a right to work parallel to studies from the first day they arrive in Tallinn. They do not need to apply for anything or get separate approval for working rights. The regular guidelines for getting your legal status in Estonia in order are under visa and residence permit section.
Working in Estonia as a non-EU citizen from EU/EEA country
The right to work in case of non-EU students from EU/EEA countries is tied to their right of being in Estonia (detailed overview under Visa and residence permit section).
Student who comes to Estonia with visa or residence permit under EU directive 2016/801, have a right to work parallel to studies from the first day they arrive in Tallinn. They do not need to apply for anything or get separate approval for working rights.
Student who comes to Estonia without visa or residence permit under EU directive 2016/801 may work from day one but need to make sure that working does not interfere with their studies, as D-visa has been given to them based on their exchange study programme here at Estonia. The regular guidelines for getting your legal status in Estonia in order are under visa and residence permit section.
Working in Estonia as a non-EU citizen from non-EU/EEA country
Non-EU students from non-EU/EEA countries have a right to work parallel to studies from the first day they arrive in Tallinn. However, they need to make sure that working does not interfere with their studies, as D-visa has been given to them based on their exchange study programme here at Estonia. The regular guidelines for getting your legal status in Estonia in order are under visa and residence permit section.
There are different options for working in Estonia depending on your experience and expectations. As lots of starting level positions demand Estonian knowledge, it is not feasible for foreigners. However, some positions at the moment do not demand it, for example food couriers. With mid or high level positions there are many international companies who value international personnel and experience.
Available positions can be found through LinkedIn, different job portals (CV keskus, töötukassa) and personal connections. You can also look through webpages of the companies who interest you, as they usually post their open positions in their own platforms.
You can also contact International House of Estonia as they offer consultations and help in navigating Estonia’s job market. They have also other types of consultations and resources available. Do note that it’s all free for you!
