Relocating to Estonia, much like moving to any new country, involves a myriad of legal and bureaucratic procedures. Fortunately, there are several online resources that can simplify these processes for expats.
Estonian Police and Border Guard Board (PBGB): The PBGB website is crucial for expats needing information on residency permits, visas, and citizenship applications. Their comprehensive guides and FAQs cover various scenarios, helping newcomers understand the requirements and processes involved.
Eesti.ee: This is the official gateway to all governmental services in Estonia. It provides detailed information on public services and living in Estonia, including how to access healthcare, tax information, and public transportation. The portal also offers personalized services with secure e-identification.
Work In Estonia: This platform provides resources for expats looking to find employment in Estonia. It includes job listings, tips on navigating the Estonian job market, and information on work permits and contracts.
Finding a comfortable place to live is one of the primary concerns for any expat. Estonia offers various online resources to find housing that suits different needs and budgets.
City24.ee: As one of the leading real estate websites in Estonia, City24.ee offers extensive listings for rental and sale properties. It also provides useful articles and advice on the Estonian real estate market, which can be invaluable for expats.
KV.ee: Another popular real estate portal, KV.ee features a wide range of properties across Estonia. Its user-friendly interface and detailed search function make it easier for expats to find suitable housing options.
Rent in Tallinn Facebook Group: This social media group is a helpful community for expats looking for rental opportunities in Estonia’s capital. Members often post available apartments, and it’s a good place to ask for advice and share experiences.
One of the keys to a successful expat experience is integrating into the local culture, which often starts with learning the language.
Keeleklikk: This is a popular online Estonian language learning course, designed for beginners. It is free of charge and includes interactive exercises and videos that make learning Estonian engaging and effective.
Speakly: Focusing on practical language use, Speakly combines science and computational algorithms to teach you the most useful Estonian words and phrases for everyday situations. It’s an excellent resource for expats who need to quickly improve their language skills.
Cultural events calendars: Websites like VisitEstonia.com offer comprehensive lists of cultural events and festivals happening around the country. Participating in these local events can be a great way for expats to meet locals and other expatriates while enjoying unique Estonian traditions.
Understanding how to access healthcare services and what to do in an emergency is crucial for anyone living in a foreign country.
Haigekassa: The Estonian Health Insurance Fund’s website provides detailed information on health insurance coverage, including how to register and what services are covered. It also has a section specifically for foreigners living in Estonia.
Emergency numbers: It’s important to know that the general emergency number in Estonia, as in many European countries, is 112. This number can be dialed for immediate assistance from the police, fire department, or medical services.
Family Doctor Information Line: This helpline (1220 or, from abroad, +372 634 6630) offers health advice in Estonian, Russian, and English. It can guide expats in non-emergency medical situations and advise when and where to seek further medical treatment.
Building a new social circle can be one of the more challenging aspects of moving abroad. Thankfully, Estonia has vibrant expat communities with regular meetups and events.
Internations: This global network has an active community in Estonia that organizes regular events and activities for expats. It’s a great way to meet people who are also living abroad and potentially facing similar challenges.
Meetup.com: Various groups exist in Estonia that cater to a wide range of interests, from language exchanges to hiking groups. It’s a useful platform to find like-minded individuals and get involved in local activities.
Expats in Tallinn Facebook Group: This social group is a place for expats in Tallinn to share information, ask questions, and connect with each other. It’s particularly useful for newcomers looking to settle in and find their feet in Estonia’s capital.
Moving to a new country involves navigating through a lot of new information and adjusting to a different way of life. The online resources mentioned above provide a solid foundation for expats in Estonia to start their journey. From legal procedures and housing to socializing and learning the local language, these platforms offer valuable support to help expats thrive in their new environment. By leveraging these resources, expats can ensure a smoother transition and a more enriching experience in Estonia.
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