League position and verified status
Unibet Hokiliiga is Estonia's top senior men's championship, organised by Eesti Jäähokiliit. The federation's official 2026/27 season page confirms five teams in the current competition.
2026/27 season format
The federation confirms a four-round regular season in 2026/27. The top four teams advance to the playoffs, and both the playoffs and final are played until one team reaches four wins. The season starts on 3 October 2026. Use the federation’s live season page for any later schedule changes.
What clubs assess
Clubs assess skating and pace, decisions under pressure, a defined role, recent verified statistics, full-game or full-shift video, contract status, citizenship and administrative readiness — a compact market rewards an exact role fit over a generic profile.
Roster and import rules
A single public import limit across Estonian competitions cannot be confirmed; rules can differ by league, age group and season.
Contract, pay and residence
There is no single official hockey salary table. Put pay, housing, equipment, insurance and termination terms in writing. For a non-EU/EEA/Swiss player, the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board lists athletes among the grounds for a residence permit for employment; short-term employment registration can apply when its conditions are met. Sporting registration and the legal work route are separate checks.
IIHF transfer and registration
A move from another national federation requires an IIHF international transfer. The transfer does not itself replace a visa, employment registration or residence right — confirm who starts the transfer and who pays each fee before travel.
Player application package
Prepare a valid passport, birth year, position, shot, height and weight, current team and verified statistics, Elite Prospects or federation profile, role-based highlights and a recent full game, plus contract status and exact availability.
Official sources and FAQ
- Eesti Jäähokiliit: Unibet Hokiliiga 2026/27 ↗
- PBGB: residence permit for employment ↗
- PBGB: short-term employment ↗
- IIHF: International Transfer Regulations 2026 ↗
Verified: 3 October 2026. The five-team 2026/27 season and current employment routes were rechecked against official sources.
How many clubs play in Unibet Hokiliiga in 2026/27?
The federation confirms five teams in the current season.
Is there a published import limit?
No single public import limit across Estonian competitions could be confirmed. Ask the club for the current rule in writing before relying on it.
Is an IIHF international transfer required?
Yes, when the player moves from a club or federation in another country.
Get a league assessment
Send your profile, statistics, full game, citizenship and contract status. EHA will assess whether the level is realistic without promising a contract.
Get assessed for Estonia