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Country Commercial Guides FY 2000: Estonia Report prepared by U.S. Embassy Tallinn, released July 1999 Note*

CHAPTER IX. BUSINESS TRAVEL

Business Customs

Estonia is a modern, post-Soviet country that enjoys close relations with Nordic and other Baltic countries. Social and business protocol is similar to that in northern Europe.

Travel Advisory and Visas

U.S. citizens do not need to obtain a visa for visits of less than 90 days.

To live and work in Estonia, a foreigner needs both a residence permit and a work permit, both of which may be obtained from the local Migration Departments. English-language instructions on how to apply are available from the Migration Department. Alternatively, instructions are posted in English on the web page of the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (www.koda.ee). Holidays

The national holidays in Estonia for 1999 are:

New Year's Day					January 1
Independence Day				February 24
Good Friday					April 2
Easter						April 4
May Day 					May 1
Whitsunday					May 23
Victory Day					June 23
Midsummer Day					June 24
Restoration of Independence			August 20
Christmas					December 25
Christmas 					December 26

Business Infrastructure

Transportation: Estonia has a relatively well-developed transportation infrastructure. The density of Estonia's road network is comparable to that of the Nordic countries. Public transportation in major cities is efficient and reliable. The government is currently in the process of privatizing the Estonian Railway. There are five passenger-serving airports in Estonia. However, all international flights occur through Tallinn Airport, which currently is undergoing reconstruction.

Language: The official language in Estonia is Estonian. English is increasingly spoken, especially in the capital city. Russian is still the most-widely spoken second language, although less so among younger Estonians.

Communications: Telecommunication is one of the fastest growing sectors in the Estonian economy. International phone calls can be made from Estonia to almost 100 countries. The mobile phone networks, which cover the entire territory of Estonia, are undergoing a phase of intense development.

Housing: Most people in Estonia own their own housing. About 30 per cent of the population live in rental housing. The rent of an apartment depends on its location, size, condition and age. Rents are relatively high and prices for apartments and houses are also high. Apartments are rented both furnished and unfurnished.

Health: While medical facilities are available throughout Estonia, medical standards are still uneven. Private clinics are service-friendly, but not always equipped for emergencies.

Estonian Food: Typical Estonian dishes rely heavily on pork, potatoes and garden vegetables. Spicy Estonian foods are unheard of. However the variety of available cuisine is expanding rapidly.

Temporary Entry of Goods

Please refer to the Temporary Entry section of Chapter VI.