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Estonia, officially the Republic of Estonia, is a country in Northern Europe, specifically part of the Baltic region, known for its digital advancements, strong democratic institutions, and its history as one of the Baltic States.
Estonia is globally recognized for its advanced digital society, e-government solutions, and thriving startup culture, making it a leader in cybersecurity and innovation, with notable achievements like Skype and e-voting.
To work and settle in Estonia, non-EU citizens typically need a long-term (D) visa or residence permit, requiring a job offer and registration with the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board. For short-term employment (up to 365 days), registration is simpler, but a residence permit is needed for longer stay.tourists spent 6.65 million nights in Estonia. Foreign visitors accounted for 3.67 million, while domestic tourists stayed for 2.98 million nights.
After living in Estonia for 5 years, you will be eligible to apply for either right of permanent residence (as an EU/EEA-citizen) or for a long-term residence permit (as a non EU/EEA-citizen).
You can register the right of permanent residence if you have lived in Estonia for 5 successive years based on the right of temporary residence. There is also a few exceptions when you can do it earlier.
Documents required for the registration:
You can apply for a long-term residence permit if you have resided in Estonia for 5 years on the basis of temporary residence permit.
Please note that your time spent studying in Estonia will be counted toward your total with a 0.5 coefficient. For example, 4 years of studies will count for 2 years of residence in this case.
To apply for the long-term residence permit, you must also:
You need to submit:
A residence permit for settling permanently in Estonia
You can apply for the residence permit for settling permanently in Estonia, if:
It is possible to apply for the residence permit for settling permanently in Estonia in foreign representation of Estonia or at the Police and Border Guard Board service office – both in person.
Documents required for the residence permit for settling permanently in Estonia:
The granting or refusal of a residence permit is decided within 2 months as of the acceptance of your application.
The Estonian Startup Visa is a fast and efficient way for non-EU startup founders who wish to come and be a part of one of the smallest but energetic startup communities in Europe as a founder. Estonia is one of the most dynamic countries among the new member states of the European Union. It is well-known both for its innovative drive and cozy living environment.
1. Zero Tax on Retained Earnings: Estonia’s unique tax system allows businesses to reinvest profits without paying corporate income tax until they are distributed.
2. Competitive Corporate Tax Rate: The corporate tax rate on distributed profits is 20%, making it a competitive environment for businesses.
3. No Withholding Taxes: There are no withholding taxes on dividends or interest, except for interest earned by non-residents from an Estonian contract fund.
4. Simplified Tax Compliance: The tax system is straightforward, reducing administrative burden and costs.
5. Low Startup Costs: Estonia doesn’t require upfront authorized capital, making it a cheaper option for startups.
6. Supportive Ecosystem: Estonia has a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs, including access to funding, incubators, and accelerators.
7. Transparent Business Practices: Estonia has a transparent and secure business environment.
8. Advanced Digital Infrastructure: Estonia has a well-developed digital infrastructure, making it easy to conduct business online.
9. Pro-Business Environment: Estonia has a supportive and innovative entrepreneurial landscape.
10. Ease of Doing Business: Company registration and other administrative tasks can be done easily online.
11. Access to the EU Market: Estonia’s membership in the European Union provides access to a large single market
Minimum Investment:
Investment Type:
1. Age
2. Health
3. Criminal Record
4. Financial Stability
5. Experience
6. Knowledge of Estonian Industry.
7. Permanent Legal Income
8. Integration Requirements
1. Valid passport.
2. Application form.
3. Proof of paid visa fee.
4. Passport-style photos.
5. Evidence of health insurance.
6. Proof of income.
7. Business plan.
8. Investment plan.
9. Documents certifying business investment.
10. Receipt of payment of fees.
11. Other documents as specified by the relevant authorities.
As an EU member, Estonia shares some immigration pathways with Europe. Being a forward-thinking and online society, the visa process for moving to Estonia can be straightforward. However, you’ll need to take care in selecting the right option. There are several visa types available, depending on the nature of your visit.
Estonia is a part of the Schengen area. Citizens from the European Union (EU), EEA (European Economic Area), and Schengen area do not need a visa for stays under ninety days.
If you are moving to Estonia for the longer term, a tourist visa won’t cover you. You will need to apply for a long-term visa. The type you need depends on the reasons you are moving to Estonia. Happily, Estonia’s great range of visas makes them one of the easiest countries to move to in Europe. Having said that, selecting the right visa or residence permit is vital. And, making sure your application is accepted first time will save you time and money.
If you are moving to Estonia for work, you need a long-stay visa. To apply, you need a confirmation letter from your host, and documents proving that you will work in Estonia.
This visa used to be especially popular for freelance travelers. The Estonia Digital Nomad Visa is now more appropriate for that group.
The government announced its game-changing digital nomad visa in June 2020. This visa allows Expats running a location-independent business to work in Estonia for up to one year.
This special visa requires proof of three things:
Australian, Canadian, or New Zealand citizens between the ages of 18-35 may be eligible for the Working Holiday Maker program. This visa allows you to live and work in Estonia under certain conditions.
The Estonia Startup Visa program is a program designed for startup founders. Your business has to meet certain criteria to qualify.
As with most countries that offer startup visas, your enterprise must contribute significantly to the development of the business environment in the country.
If one or both of your spouse’s parents were Estonian citizens at birth, your spouse is likely also an Estonian citizen. This means you can also apply for residency through your spouse, which will allow you to live and work in the country.
This family reunification route is not only for Estonian Citizens. If your spouse has had an Estonian residence permit for at least two years, you may also be eligible for this visa.
Per local laws, you must register your marriage or partnership with the Citizenship and Migration Board (CMB). The CMB may carry out additional checks to ensure your relationship is genuine and that you have enough financial resources. This process may include interviewing you and your spouse.
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can move to Estonia without a visa. However, if you want to work in Estonia, you must register as an Estonian resident. You have to do this within three months of your arrival.
Non-EU and EEA citizens moving to Estonia for longer than six months will need a temporary residence permit. The residence permit allows you to work in the country and leads to eligibility for a permanent residency. You also get an Estonian ID-Card, which grants access to the services the government provides.
After five years, you can apply to stay in Estonia permanently. To qualify for permanent residency, you will need to show your income, accommodation, and health insurance coverage. You must also be able to speak fluent Estonian.
To work in Estonia, most non-citizens need a residence visa or permit, with options for short-term and long-term employment. The process involves employer registration with the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board, and meeting specific requirements for the type of visa or permit.
Working in Estonia can be a good experience, especially for those in IT or skilled trades, as the country is facing labor shortages in these areas and has a high rate of work visa approvals. Estonia also offers a digital society, a reasonable cost of living, and a good quality of life.
In Estonia, the average monthly gross salary in 2024 was €1,981, while the median salary was €1,628. The minimum monthly wage for full-time work is €820.
Estonia has three different visa categories:
Type A and C visas are Schengen visas and allow for entry to other member states. Individuals only entering Estonia can apply with the appropriate Estonian representation issuing the visas. However, if the visit includes going to several member states over two months, the applicant must go to the main destination to file the application.
While there are some exceptions, most of your employees will apply for a long-stay visa. They can do so in person with an Estonian representation that handles visa applications or at the service point of the Police and Border Guard Board in the country.
General Requirements:
1. Valid Passport: A passport with at least two unused pages and an expiration date at least three months after your visa expires.
2. Application Form: A completed and signed application form for a temporary residence permit.
3. Valid Employment Contract: A signed contract detailing the terms of employment, including job role, salary, and duration.
4. Proof of Qualifications: Evidence of your qualifications and professional experience relevant to the job position.
5. Health Insurance: Schengen visa travel medical insurance with at least EUR 30,000 coverage.
6. Employer Registration: Your employer must register your employment with the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board beforehand.
7. Biometric Data: Fingerprints will be taken at the consulate.
8. Visa Fee: Payment of the visa fee.
Coraledu is dedicated to empowering international individuals to excel in their lives abroad. Through our tailored work and settlement services, we assist both individuals and employers globally, facilitating successful transitions and thriving experiences, particularly in Estonia. Contact us today to unlock opportunities and ensure success in both professional and personal endeavors abroad.
