välismaalase

Välismaalane refers to a foreigner or a person who is not a citizen of Estonia. In the context of Estonia, this term is often used to describe individuals who were born outside of the country or who have acquired foreign citizenship through marriage, adoption, or naturalization.

In Estonia, the category of foreigners is divided into several sub-types, including third-country nationals, European Union citizens, and citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA). Each of these categories has different rights and obligations under Estonian law, including the right to work, study, and reside in the country.

Foreigners in Estonia are required to register with the Police and Border Guard Board and to obtain a residence permit if they plan to stay in the country for more than 90 days. The types of residence permits available depend on the purpose of the stay: work, study, family reunification, or tourism.

Estonia's immigration policy is based on the principles of equal treatment and non-discrimination. Foreign citizens have access to various public services, including healthcare, education, and social welfare programs, on the same terms as Estonian citizens.

However, foreigners in Estonia may encounter certain practical challenges, such as language barriers, cultural differences, and access to employment. Furthermore, the application process for residence permits and the protection of foreigners' rights are monitored by the Daphne program of the European Union, which aims to improve the situation of vulnerable and marginalized immigrants in the European Union.