Estonia is currently grappling with a labor shortage, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing. According to the European Labour Authority (EURES) Report for 2022, which assesses labor shortages and surpluses across Europe, Estonia ranks among the top ten countries facing a significant workforce deficit.
Official statistics from Estonia's national agency, Statistics Estonia, reveal that in the third quarter of the current year, there were 12,040 job vacancies in the country. While this figure represents an 8.7% decrease compared to the same period in the previous year, Estonia continues to grapple with workforce shortages in various industries.
EURES has identified the following occupations in which Estonia is experiencing a shortage of skilled workers:
Conversely, Estonia reports a surplus of workers in sectors such as tourism and hospitality, fashion and textile production, design, health information management, library and information services, and personal services. As a result, individuals applying for jobs related to these sectors may face greater competition and a lower chance of securing employment.
Who Requires a Work Visa to Work in Estonia?
Prospective employees considering work in Estonia should be aware that it is one of the most accessible countries for obtaining a work visa. According to VisaGuide.World, Estonia boasts a high acceptance rate for work visa applications, making it the top choice among countries for obtaining work visas.
Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland are exempt from the requirement for a work visa when seeking employment in Estonia. However, individuals from other countries must apply for a work visa after securing a job contract in advance. Estonia's welcoming stance on work visas positions it as an attractive destination for international workers seeking opportunities in a diverse range of fields.
Here are some pros and cons of living and working in Estonia:
Pros:
Official statistics from Estonia's national agency, Statistics Estonia, reveal that in the third quarter of the current year, there were 12,040 job vacancies in the country. While this figure represents an 8.7% decrease compared to the same period in the previous year, Estonia continues to grapple with workforce shortages in various industries.
EURES has identified the following occupations in which Estonia is experiencing a shortage of skilled workers:
- Wood treaters
- Specialist medical practitioners
- Refuse sorters
- Physiotherapists
- Pharmacists
- Paper products machine operators
- Nursing professionals
- Mobile farm and forestry plant operators
- Mixed crop and livestock laborers
- Metal production process controllers
- Messengers, package deliverers, and luggage porters
- Management and organization analysts
- Inland and coastal waters fishery workers
- Information and communication technology operations technicians
- Hunters and trappers
- Healthcare assistants
- General medical practitioners
- Fishery and aquaculture laborers
- Electronics engineering technicians
- Dentists
- Crop farm laborers
- Chemical products plant and machine operators
- Agricultural and industrial machinery mechanics and repairers
Conversely, Estonia reports a surplus of workers in sectors such as tourism and hospitality, fashion and textile production, design, health information management, library and information services, and personal services. As a result, individuals applying for jobs related to these sectors may face greater competition and a lower chance of securing employment.
Who Requires a Work Visa to Work in Estonia?
Prospective employees considering work in Estonia should be aware that it is one of the most accessible countries for obtaining a work visa. According to VisaGuide.World, Estonia boasts a high acceptance rate for work visa applications, making it the top choice among countries for obtaining work visas.
Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland are exempt from the requirement for a work visa when seeking employment in Estonia. However, individuals from other countries must apply for a work visa after securing a job contract in advance. Estonia's welcoming stance on work visas positions it as an attractive destination for international workers seeking opportunities in a diverse range of fields.
Here are some pros and cons of living and working in Estonia:
Pros:
- High Quality of Life: Estonia offers a high standard of living with a well-developed healthcare system, excellent education, and a clean environment.
- E-Government: Estonia is known for its advanced digital infrastructure and e-government services, making administrative tasks and paperwork more convenient.
- Work-Life Balance: Estonians value work-life balance, and it's common to have shorter workdays and a strong focus on personal well-being.
- Safety: Estonia is considered one of the safest countries in Europe with low crime rates.
- Startup Hub: Estonia has a thriving tech and startup scene, and it's home to companies like Skype and TransferWise (now Wise), offering opportunities in the tech industry.
- English Proficiency: Many Estonians speak English, which makes it easier for foreigners to communicate and work.
- Residency Programs: Estonia offers various e-residency and digital nomad programs that allow individuals to establish businesses and work remotely in the country.
- Beautiful Nature: Estonia boasts beautiful landscapes, forests, and a long coastline, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
- Cold Climate: Estonia experiences long, harsh winters with cold temperatures, which can be challenging for those not accustomed to such climates.
- Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken, Estonian is the official language, and some services and interactions may be in Estonian, especially in rural areas.
- Limited Job Market: Job opportunities in some fields may be limited, especially for non-EU citizens, despite the labor shortages in specific industries.
- Bureaucracy: Dealing with government bureaucracy can be challenging and time-consuming at times, especially for newcomers.
- Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to Estonian culture and social norms may take time, and some expats may find it difficult to integrate fully.
- Small Population: Estonia has a relatively small population, which can limit social and networking opportunities compared to larger countries.
- Cost of Living: While not as expensive as some Western European countries, the cost of living in Estonia, particularly in Tallinn, can be relatively high.
- Limited Entertainment Options: Estonia may have fewer entertainment and cultural options compared to larger European capitals.
But seriously, anyone had experience in the fishery industry there? Seems like an odd job to be short on, no? Guess everyone’s going for tech.