Chris
@cjacobs86
American expat in Estonia
Forum posts
55
Contacts
3
About me
American
Lives in Tartu
Speaks English, Spanish, Estonian
Registration: 28 August 2009
The Heating System in Tartu Appartments by misha99
I am planning onto studying in Tartu, for that reason i will be renting a single room for myself. My main concern is the heating comfort of the rooms in the city of Tartu. Can someone please reply who provides the heating in the city (government ...
Electric heating can be more expensive, since electricity is very high. If you have an electrically heated apartment, it is generally the least efficient. It can cost you up to There are 5 types of heating in Estonia. Central heating (supplied by ... Read More
Estonian cuisine by Priscilla
Hi, When living abroad, tasting the local cuisine is part of discovering the country. What is your favorite food in Estonia? What is the local speciality? Share with us the local tastes of Estonia and why not your best recipe. Thank ...
If you want to call it Estonian cuisine, you can call it that. A lot of national foods are very German influenced, and also Russian influenced. When we discuss "purely" Estonian cuisine, there are "variations" of certain foods ... Read More
Safety in Estonia by Christine
Hi, We would like to talk about a sensitive but important topic: do you feel safe in Estonia? How would you define the level of safety in the country? Can you walk safely during the day and at night without any fear? Do you think there ...
do you feel safe in Estonia? I feel safer in Estonia than in the US. In overall general terms. I have lived in Tartu (second largest city) and Tallinn (the capital) over the last 5 years. The country has its crime like any country. Generally ... Read More
e-residance by samudra dilrukshi
Hii. I want to know how is e-residance. I saw that estonia website. Can u help me. I entered my personal details that system. Did u know about that?
There are two types of Residencies - E-residency and Residence Permit for Living. E Residency is an "online based" identity that allows you to open a business in Estonia, run a company in Estonia, which is useful for "E-based" ... Read More
e-residance by samudra dilrukshi
Hii. I want to know how is e-residance. I saw that estonia website. Can u help me. I entered my personal details that system. Did u know about that?
There are two types of Residencies - E-residency and Residence Permit for Living. E Residency is an "online based" identity that allows you to open a business in Estonia, run a company in Estonia, which is useful for "E-based" ... Read More
Teaching English in Estonia by kevinpcullen
Greetings all, My name is Kevin, a US citizen living in Florida at the moment. Visited Estonia (Tartu and Tallinn) back in December and fell in love with the country. Ever since, I've been devising plans to relocate there for a while, hopefully ...
Hi Juliet, Maybe I can help a little here. I've lived in Estonia for 4 years, and have helped 1 guy find a job here as a teacher, who was American. I see you are looking for a job as a language or ESL teacher... To answer your questions. ... Read More
American wanting to move to Estonia by gothichck52
Tere (I'm working on learning the language)! For all who don't know, that means hello. lol I'm a 25 year old mom from Michigan and I'm in a relationship now with an Estonian woman. With the economy as bad as it is here and the politics NOT making ...
The results on here I find rather skewed - Yes, the data is old, but you still can't argue data. Estonia is the 46th smallest out of 188 countries world wide by population. It is ranked 5th smallest of countries with over a million people, most of ... Read More
American wanting to move to Estonia by gothichck52
Tere (I'm working on learning the language)! For all who don't know, that means hello. lol I'm a 25 year old mom from Michigan and I'm in a relationship now with an Estonian woman. With the economy as bad as it is here and the politics NOT making ...
Feel free to PM me to exchange e-mail if you have any additional questions. I can help you with residency issues, and local stuff. There is quite a network of people here in Tartu that can give some assistance if needed. All the best, Chris Read More
Finishing school in Tartu? by gothichck52
So, I've looked around on websites and such. I'd LOVE to finish my degree in Human Services, but I can't seem to find any info about actually being able to do it. I've also not been able to find information about a Psychology degree or anything ...
It's perfectly okay, I was basically just saying that Estonian is a hard language, and that although i finished 1 class 3 years ago, I still don't know how to speak correctly. You can ask your friend to teach you some, but there are so many ... Read More
American wanting to move to Estonia by gothichck52
Tere (I'm working on learning the language)! For all who don't know, that means hello. lol I'm a 25 year old mom from Michigan and I'm in a relationship now with an Estonian woman. With the economy as bad as it is here and the politics NOT making ...
There is a good bit of competition, but there are several other positions available for native English speakers, such as working as a editor for a translation company. You would be responsible for proofreading trnaslations of translators before they ... Read More
Finishing school in Tartu? by gothichck52
So, I've looked around on websites and such. I'd LOVE to finish my degree in Human Services, but I can't seem to find any info about actually being able to do it. I've also not been able to find information about a Psychology degree or anything ...
Ja, Eesti Keel on raske keel. Ma l玫petasin 1 kursus, 3 aastat tagasi, ja ma ei tea ikka kuidas r盲盲kida 玫ige. K眉si sinu s玫ber oppida teile. Need on nii palju Eestlased et r盲盲givad inglise keel siin. Kui sa tulla Eestisse, on kergem kui sa r盲盲gid ... Read More
Finishing school in Tartu? by gothichck52
So, I've looked around on websites and such. I'd LOVE to finish my degree in Human Services, but I can't seem to find any info about actually being able to do it. I've also not been able to find information about a Psychology degree or anything ...
Hello again, Maybe I can help you more. Tartu is where I live and this is a field I can help with. There is a few options in Estonia for English-Language studies. But in my experience, having been a student at the University of Tartu before, ... Read More
American wanting to move to Estonia by gothichck52
Tere (I'm working on learning the language)! For all who don't know, that means hello. lol I'm a 25 year old mom from Michigan and I'm in a relationship now with an Estonian woman. With the economy as bad as it is here and the politics NOT making ...
Q: How difficult and expensive is it to get the required visas/permits to live and work in Estonia? A: It can be difficult depending on your circumstance. This is a very broad question, but this website should answer most if not all of your ... Read More
Primary Schools in Estonia by gothichck52
So, as usual, I'm doing TONS of research before I'm able to get everything going to move there. I've been looking into the schools. I have a 7 year old son with some behavior problems. He's had VERY little exposure to Estonian language (he's ...
Hi GothicChick, Tervist! The real scenario depends on where you want to move to. You will find that Tartu is a better place to raise a family. I'm 27 and my girlfriend is 37. She has two little girls. Their dad was an American guy. They grew up ... Read More
Looking for a room for September
[moderated: no free ad on the forum. Please post in the housing section. thanks.] Read More
Estonian Universities -- Master's Programs in English by faithamaris
I am considering attending U Tartu, pursuing an M.A. in EU-Russian Relations. I would like to hear from expats (non-native Estonians), who have attended an Estonian University and completed a degree; specifically from any U.S. citizens, as I have ...
Hi Faith, I see your post and I think I can help. I have two friends who are studying in the University of Tartu dept. of Political Science. One is studying EU-Russia Relations and her husband just graduated from Baltic Studies programs offered in ... Read More
Housing, Social life & Arts Info needed by Midgo249
Hello, We will be moving to Tallinn within the next few months. I have a few questions about what area is best to live for parents with two small kids (2 & 31/2) that need room but also like to have a social life on their own at night. I just don聮t ...
Hello Allie, I can't say I know Tallinn's art scene since I am much more the Tartu resident. I can tell you that the KUMU (National Art Museum) in Tallinn or perhaps Tartu Korgem Kunstikool (Tartu's collegiate art school) could provide a hint on ... Read More
estonia by chinedu123
Wat is d'rate of racism in estonia
Hi Victor, For some people this is a very taboo topic, but I hope to help some if I can. Estonia doesn't have much diversity outside of caucasian pale-skinned people, so it is important that if you do come here that you are aware of standing out ... Read More
Young male, looking to move to Estonia
Your GI bill is of no use in Estonia. GI bill would only work in an American Accredited University, but you should check with the VA on any international universities that would accept it. If you wanna study veterinary medicine, there is a decent ... Read More
Need some advice for my american boyfriend. by Piret
I am an Estonian but I've been living in Texas for almost 4 years now. Me and my boyfriend have been talking about moving to Estonia next spring. I just wanted to ask you guys how do you like it in Estonia? What would be your advice to him or what ...
I would advise him to visit if he hasn't already. He should come here for 3 months (Americans can stay up to 3 months without special need for a visa). During those three months he should apply for jobs and go to interviews, while he visits and ... Read More
US citizen to Estonia
Typically it isn't easy to get a job here without a college degree. Estonia does what it can to protect the local job market, so before you can even begin to work here, you have to bring some proof of your education and training credentials. Which ... Read More
looking for room in Tartu
It will be much easier for you to search these websites under the english option if you would like to find accommodation. www.kv.ee www.city24.ee They have plenty of rentals. If needed, then join Tartu Uurikorterid group on facebook, where ... Read More
Buying a car in Estonia by bobbyinestonia
Tere! I have recently moved to Tartu and I am in the market to buy a used car but I don't know what is required. I will be studying, but I don't have a residence visa yet, as that will come after August. My partner is Estonian, but she doesn't ...
Hey Bobby, Sure man, not a problem! Yes, this is permitted, your partner can have the car in her name, the insurance will need to be in her name as well in order for this to work. She is allowed to own and insure a car even if she does not have a ... Read More
Buying a car in Estonia by bobbyinestonia
Tere! I have recently moved to Tartu and I am in the market to buy a used car but I don't know what is required. I will be studying, but I don't have a residence visa yet, as that will come after August. My partner is Estonian, but she doesn't ...
You can buy a car in Estonia and legally drive. A few places to go and remember how this works. 1. Once you have your residence permit you can legally purchase and own a car in Estonia. They will use your Residence ID code. 2. After you find a ... Read More
Healthcare in Estonia by Julien
Hi, how does the healthcare system work in Estonia ? Is it efficient ? What are the main differences between public and private sectors? Is it recommended to purchase private health insurance in Estonia? Thanks in advance for sharing ...
how does the healthcare system works in Estonia ? Is it efficient ? The healthcare is public for all children under 19, the elderly, and working individuals. If you are unemployed, you are taken care of but not covered (if that makes sense). You ... Read More
finding an apartment by pederholm
I want to move to tartu and are wondering how many days in hotel i should expect before i find an apartment. Does anyone have experience with this? Is it hard to find an apartment (where i come from its very hard (many people that fight over few ...
Anubyus left a good reply To add to it, I advise you to check out this link http://www.city24.ee/client/city24client?&analytics_search_id=x99c5455ed6ef10cc41bab00d0f3a553f (I selected the English option for you) you can select "Flat" "Rent" and ... Read More
banks in tallinn
Since you're from Germany You'll have no problems opening a bank account in Estonia. Read More
au pair arrangements
Andrac- It is a little difficult to understand your question entirely... but I'll try. Medical: Estonia recognizes EU medical pass for health insurance coverage for EU citizens who are covered in their home country. Non-EU citizens will need to ... Read More
Emigrating from USA---ex-Military wanting to farm Tartu area. by klm80
Hello! Looking for tips or info on how to emigrate to Estonia from the USA. Husband is soon to get out of the American Army (Infantry) and will be completing his Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice soon. Wife is mostly a Homemaker who has an ...
KLM - It isn't necessary to seek information elsewhere. There normally aren't people on this website whom make illegitimate comments KOTOR - It is absolutely necessary to understand that providing background information before moving abroad is ... Read More
Opening a bank account in Estonia by Julien
Hi all, is it difficult for expats to open a bank account in Estonia ? Which documents are required to open a bank account in Estonia ? How long does it take to open it ? Is there any restriction for expats regarding the services (loans ...
It certainly isn't a problem, I paid my first couple of months rent in cash. But, you will definitely need one to pay for certain utilities. Get address, pay cash, open bank account. Read More
Business networks for us expats?
Well, I think the best one you will find is via this website :) But there are several chamber of commerce's in Estonia if this is what you mean? One example of this is AmCham.ee Or the American Chamber of Commerce in Estonia. If there is not ... Read More
Fieldwork in Estonia this Fall by cottrellcm
Hello everyone! I'm moving to Estonia this fall for a few months to do my dissertation fieldwork. I'm really looking forward to it! I've joined expatblog so that I can pick up some tips for living and working in Tallinn. If there was one thing you ...
It depends on your situation? Will you be working for an Estonian company? Will you be here longer than 3 months? Are you here for Academic reasons or for work experience? If you work for an Estonian company, you need to be approved of by the ... Read More
Opening a bank account in Estonia by Julien
Hi all, is it difficult for expats to open a bank account in Estonia ? Which documents are required to open a bank account in Estonia ? How long does it take to open it ? Is there any restriction for expats regarding the services (loans ...
Here are a few tips to opening a bank account in Estonia. First off, Yes, You need one if you plan to stay, rent an apartment, pay bills, buy gas etc. 1. Most, if not all, bills are paid via your netbank. So it is heavily suggested you follow ... Read More
Emigrating from USA---ex-Military wanting to farm Tartu area. by klm80
Hello! Looking for tips or info on how to emigrate to Estonia from the USA. Husband is soon to get out of the American Army (Infantry) and will be completing his Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice soon. Wife is mostly a Homemaker who has an ...
This sounds like a very interesting an perhaps unusual thing to do for a foreigner in Estonia. I would say that to set up a business in Agriculture might be rather difficult. It would be virtually impossible for any citizen from outside the EU or ... Read More
Doing business in Estonia by Julien
Hi, are foreign investors welcome in Estonia? Is it complicated to register a company in Estonia? What is the procedure? What is the corporate tax rate in Estonia? Is it easy to recruit? Any advice you would share with us? Thank ...
A much better and more detailed reply :) Nice addition !! Read More
Looking for some friends
Welcome to Estonia, I too am American, I live and work here in Estonia. I'm currently in tartu, but go to Tallinn often on the weekends. I'm 25 and moved here over a year ago. If you have any questions send me a PM and I'll exchange e-mail info ... Read More
Doing business in Estonia by Julien
Hi, are foreign investors welcome in Estonia? Is it complicated to register a company in Estonia? What is the procedure? What is the corporate tax rate in Estonia? Is it easy to recruit? Any advice you would share with us? Thank ...
are foreign investors welcome in Estonia? A: Absolutely; I believe a majority part of Estonia is built upon international investment. Most foreign investors interested in contributing to local companies or setting up operations can receive ... Read More
Successful job interview in Estonia by Julie
Hi, passing a job interview in Estonia can be a stressful moment, especially you are not familiar with the cultural and professional codes of the country. How to successfully pass a job interview in Estonia ? What happens during the ...
That is generally the sum up of everything. I wouldn't necessarily say feedback is zero during interviews, but in general terms, that statement has some truth. From a business-culture standpoint, I notice that the interview process is conducted ... Read More
Organize your move to Estonia by Julie
Hi all, we invite you to share your experience about moving to Estonia. Here is a list of questions which might help the ones preparing their move to Estonia: What would you bring and what would you leave behind? Is it a good idea to ...
What would you bring and what would you leave behind? Bring: Money, Passport, International useable credit/debit card, Certified copy of university diploma supported by the Hague convention. Certified copy of university transcripts, Original copy ... Read More
Successful job interview in Estonia by Julie
Hi, passing a job interview in Estonia can be a stressful moment, especially you are not familiar with the cultural and professional codes of the country. How to successfully pass a job interview in Estonia ? What happens during the ...
How do you successfully pass a job interview in Estonia? It depends solely on the position and it depends heavily on the interviewer. Its difficult to really know what to expect from the person interested in your CV. A few bottom-line rules stand ... Read More
Does anyone know where you can buy fitness supplements in Tallinn?
Prisma definitely has it.. Its cheaper too! Probably... Read More
moving to Estonia
Personal Items that are carried with luggage. There are no import fees. However, if you do bring something that is brand new and is in its originalpackage, be sure to have a receipt with you, whowing you purchased it abroad or outside the European ... Read More
New Expat by Hbb7535
Hi. My name is Jeff and my family and I have just relocated to P盲rnu from the U.S. My wife is a native Estonian and I am a U.S. citizen We will be here for 2-3 years and as P盲rnu does not seem to have a thriving expat community... I am interested ...
Hey Karl, That sounds great! I will be in the area, although I cannot guarantee I will make it for a weekend cookout. July 1st not too far from Haapsalu is Hard Rock Laager (big heavy metal fest). I will be there for the weekend to Sunday (July ... Read More
Cleaning lady in Tallinn
How often will she be cleaning?.. generally speaking 400 euros a month is full time salary for nonspecialized labor. Read More
Finding work, getting Temporary work visa
I would have responded sooner? What is your industry? You can work up to 3 months in Estonia without a work visa, but you will need to get permission from the migration office. Secondly, if you find a permanent job, you will need to obtain ... Read More
New Expat by Hbb7535
Hi. My name is Jeff and my family and I have just relocated to P盲rnu from the U.S. My wife is a native Estonian and I am a U.S. citizen We will be here for 2-3 years and as P盲rnu does not seem to have a thriving expat community... I am interested ...
Hi Jeff, My name is Chris, originally from Florida, graduated college in Kansas, and my dad is also from Texas (ladonia) northeast of dallas about 100 mi. What type of work brings you to Estonia? I am a Marketing and Sales manager for a ... Read More
English speaking doctors in Estonia?
You can visit the websites for the exchange students at Tallinn University, Tallinn Technical University and the Uni. Tartu. Send them an e-mail, usually they are required to keep a register of English speaking doctors for the international ... Read More