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Migration and Home Affairs

Seasonal worker in Estonia

Are you a non-EU citizen wishing to carry out seasonal work in Estonia? You can find information below on the conditions, procedures and rights you can enjoy during your stay.

  • 1 April 2025

Conditions

To carry out seasonal work you should be registered for short-term employment and obtain a short-term or long-term (D) visa.

Procedures

Where and how to apply

If you are a seasonal worker you will fall under the category of 'short-term employment' in Estonia. Your employer needs to submit the registration for the short-term employment for seasonal work to the Police and Border Guard. 

You may engage in short-term employment in Estonia as seasonal worker for a maximum of 270 days within 365 consecutive days.

You should apply for a visa at the Estonian embassy or consulate in your country of origin or residence, unless you are exempt from the visa requirement. Also, long-term visa can be applied directly at the Police and Border Guard services if you have legal ground to arrive to Estonia.
 

For short-term employment you must comply with the following conditions:

  • Your permanent or principal place of residence must be in a third country.
  • You will start the work in the area of activity dependent upon season listed by the Government of Estonia.
  • You have to have a short-term employment contract with the employer before the submission of the application for registration of short-term employment or relevant job offer.
  • Your employment must be registered by the employer with the Police and Border Guard Board before the employment commences. A written confirmation will be issued to confirm the registration for short-term employment.
  • As a general rule your salary must ensure your subsistence.
  • You have to comply with the requisite qualifications, training, sate of health, work experience and the necessary professional skills and knowledge to assume the position.
  • Your accommodation in Estonia has to be ensured in an accommodation which complies with the relevant requirements.
  • The employer has to be registered in Estonia.
Further information

More on getting a long-stay visa for seasonal work

More on short-term employment

More on applying for a short-term visa

Rights

Registration of the short-term employment as a seasonal worker cannot be extended if the maximum period is reached. If you wish to stay and work in Estonia, you have to apply for a residence permit.