Relocating to Estonia: Legal Pathways to Live and Work Here
Estonia has built an immigration framework that matches its reputation for openness and innovation. The law provides multiple entry routes, each with specific requirements, durations, and legal effects. Understanding the essentials helps to choose the path that fits your goals.
Below is an overview of the relocation opportunities.
Temporary stay options
Digital Nomad Visa
Purpose: For remote workers employed by a foreign company or running a business registered abroad.
Duration: Up to 1 year (short-term or long-term visa).
Key points: Requires proof of sufficient income (above the national average) and the ability to work location-independently. It does not lead directly to permanent residence but can serve as a first step for those testing life in Estonia.
Visa for Short-Term Employment
Purpose: For temporary work in Estonia based on a registered employment contract.
Duration: Up to 365 days within a 455-day period.
Key points: Employment must be registered with the Police and Border Guard Board before applying for the visa. Often used for seasonal work, urgent projects, or while waiting for a residence permit decision.
Startup Visa
Purpose: For founders of innovative, scalable businesses approved by the Estonian Startup Committee.
Duration: Up to 1 year.
Key points: Allows time to establish the business before applying for a longer-term residence permit.
Long-term stay options
Temporary Residence Permit for Employment
Purpose: For professionals employed in Estonia.
Duration: From 1 to 5 years (usually matching the employment contract).
Key points: Requires meeting legal salary thresholds. Foreigners employed as top specialists or startup employees can benefit from simplified relocation procedures. Residence is tied to continued employment.
EU Blue Card
Purpose: For highly qualified specialists with a valid employment offer in Estonia.
Duration: Up to 27 months.
Key points: Grants mobility within the EU for employment in other Blue Card states. Requires a higher salary threshold than standard employment permits.
Startup Residence Permit
Purpose: For founders actively developing an approved startup in Estonia.
Duration: From 1 to 5 years.
Key points: Requires prior approval of the startup by the Startup Committee. Offers a stable base for business development and access to EU markets.
Temporary Residence Permit for Business (Investment Residence Permit)
Purpose: For individuals investing in Estonia.
Duration: From 1 to 5 years.
Key points: Minimum investment thresholds — generally €65,000 for company shareholders or €16,000 for sole entrepreneurs. Business must have actual economic activity and remain in place during the permit’s validity.
Temporary Residence Permit for Studies
Purpose: For students accepted into accredited Estonian educational institutions.
Duration: For the nominal duration of studies (usually 1–2 years, renewable).
Key points: Allows part-time work during studies and can be a stepping stone to employment-based residence after graduation.
Temporary Residence Permit for Settling with a Family Member
Purpose: For close relatives of Estonian citizens or residents.
Duration: From 1 to 5 years.
Key points: Requirements vary based on the family relationship. Proof of sufficient income and accommodation is needed.
Choosing the Right Path
Relocation comes with different challenges, benefits, and legal consequences. Whether a visa or a residence permit, choosing the right legal basis, is key to a smooth relocation. Our legal team will analyse your goals, assess your eligibility, and recommend the option that best fits your plans.
From the first consultation to the final approval, Legalabi’s team ensures the process is handled efficiently and in full compliance with the law.
Contact us today for clear, practical legal guidance on relocating to Estonia.