Estonia relaxed several rules for foreign workers in 2026 to ease its labour shortages, while keeping a small overall immigration quota. This guide explains the latest rules in plain English.

The framework is being reformed in stages, so always confirm the current position before you act.

The Big Picture

Citizens of the EU, the EEA and Switzerland can work in Estonia freely. Other workers usually register for short-term employment or apply for a temporary residence permit for employment through the Police and Border Guard Board (PPA). The temporary residence permit can be valid for up to five years.

The Quota and Salary

Estonia keeps a small annual immigration quota, set at 1,292 for 2026, but key sectors such as ICT are exempt, so many highly skilled professionals can apply outside the cap. Pay must generally meet at least the Estonian average wage, with a higher threshold for the EU Blue Card.

The May 2026 Reforms

From 22 May 2026, several changes took effect to make hiring more flexible:

• Workers can continue working while a permit extension or change of basis is processed if they applied before the old permit expired.
• Permit holders can change employers without a new permit; the new employer registers the change with the PPA, which makes a decision.
• After losing a job, workers can stay three months (or six months if they held the permit for two or more years); beyond three months, they must show income of at least twice the subsistence level.
• Fines for illegal employment and related breaches rose to up to EUR 100,000.

A Pending Shortage-Sector Route

A further reform under discussion would grant quota-exempt fixed-term permits in shortage sectors such as manufacturing and transport, at wages of at least 80% of the national average, for up to 1,300 permits a year (rising to 2,600 if the economy grows strongly).

What Foreign Workers and Employers Should Do

• Check whether the role is quota-exempt, as ICT often is.
• Apply for extensions before the current permit expires to keep working.
• Confirm pay meets at least the average wage or the Blue Card threshold.
• For employers, ensure registration in the Commercial Register and at least 6 months of activity.

Quick Summary

1. The 2026 immigration quota is 1,292, but ICT and some sectors are exempt.
2. From 22 May 2026, workers can change employers without a new permit, with the change decided within 30 days.
3. Unemployment is allowed for 3 to 6 months, depending on the permit length.
4. Fines for breaches rose to up to EUR 100,000.