BNS - Amendments to the Estonian Aliens Act that stepped into effect from Sept. 1 make it simpler for foreign top specialists, scientists, university teachers and students to take up employment or studies in Estonia.

"All the amendments that entered into force are positive for foreigners and the people who invited them because the goal is to make application for a permit faster and simpler," Liis Valk, head of the foreigners service at the Police and Border Guard Board, said through spokespeople on Monday. "At the same time, this means more frequent ex-post checks for us in order to be confident that the permit obtained is used for the declared purpose.
In the case of top specialists, scientists and university teachers it is now possible for the employer on certain conditions to seek sped-up registration of short-term employment. Unlike with the procedure in application for a residence permit, it is possible in such case for the top specialist to start work immediately.
Even though the changes are aimed at a concrete group of persons, they influence everyone who seeks a residence permit or registration of short-term employment, as the amendments also changed the residence permit application forms.