🇪🇪 How to Apply for the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa
In 2020, the government of Estonia introduced two types of Estonia Digital Nomad visas (short and long stay) that allow remote workers to work legally and live in the country for up to 12 months.
In addition, in 2014, they introduced the e-residency program that allows individuals worldwide to register and open remote companies in Estonia without ever psychically visiting, making it a very nomad-friendly country.
This article will share the five most important steps when applying for the Estonia Digital Nomad Visas.
Before you depart make sure you're covered...
Lau
What is a Digital Nomad Visa
A digital nomad visa is a particular type of visa that allows people who work online to live and travel in a foreign country for an extended period (typically 6-12 months).
To qualify for a digital nomad visa, applicants must meet several requirements, which vary per country. In addition, they need to prove that they have a steady income from online work and can support themselves financially while living abroad.
What are the Two types of Estonian Digital Nomad Visas?
✅ Type C Visa
The Type C Visa, also known as the short-stay visa or Estonia Schengen Visa, is a type of travel document used by individuals seeking to enter Estonia for tourism or business purposes.
With the Estonia Type C Visa, you can stay in Estonia for 90 days out of every 180 days.
☑️ Type D Visa
The Type D Visa for Estonia, also known as the long-stay visa, permits you to reside in Estonia for up to one year.
This visa also allows you to spend time in other Schengen countries for 90 days within 180 days.
Requirements for the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa
📩 Completed Application Form
📄 Valid Travel Document
At least three months after your return date back to your home country (e.g. 15 months from when you arrive in Estonia if you plan to stay for one year)
💶 Proof of Remote Income
You must be able to prove sufficient income from either:
- Valid working contract with a foreign company
- Owning a business with clients outside the country
- Becoming an independent freelancer and earning an income through providing services to international customers.
💰 Meet the Minimum Monthly Income
Self-employed applicants must meet the minimum annual income requirement of €3,504 ($3,836) per month (after tax).
One must submit bank certification and authenticated bank statements to establish proof of sufficient income and funding.
Or have €42,048 ($46,034) in your bank account at the time of applying (€3,504 x 12).
🚑 Medical Insurance
A valid medical insurance policy that provides coverage during your stay.
🏡 Address in Estonia
Although not required, proof of a rental agreement will help your application.
5 Most Important Steps when Applying for the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa
💥 Step 1: Gather all the required documents
Once you’ve met all the requirements listed above, you can start the application process. Use the list below as an indication of what you'll need to put together.
❗️ Required Documents
- A completed application form
- Copy of Passport
- Two Passport-Sized Photographs
- Proof of Income with Certified Bank Statements
- Document of Health Insurance Protection
✔️ Step 2: Submit an online application
Once all your documents are in order, it’s time to complete the application form online. Depending on which visa you decide to apply for, you can use the below links:
✅ Type C Visa
☑️ Type D Visa
📞 Step 3: Book Your Visa Appointment
Of the Estonian Embassy you plan to apply to, schedule an appointment. The Embassy might not have early slots available.
In most instances, the earliest slot will likely be next month, so consider this in your planning. You can schedule an appointment by calling the Embassy or Consulate nearest your location.
📆 Step 4: Attend Your Visa Appointment
After scheduling your appointment, your next step is attending it, which will involve an in-person interview with an embassy staff member.
After your interview, you must submit biometric information such as fingerprints and a digital photo. You’ll also be asked to pay your visa application fee of €80 ($88) (short stay) or €100 ($109) (long stay).
⏳ Step 5 – Wait for the Processing of Your Application
After finishing all the steps above, you have to wait for the processing and approval of your application. The average processing time for a visa application is about 15-30 days. 🥳
Estonia Digital Nomad Visa at a Glance
For those of you who like summary tables, we've put the most important information of Estonia's Digital Nomad Visa below.
Income Requirement €3,504 per month Duration of Visa One Year Cost of Visa €100 Processing Time 15-30 days Family Allowed on Visa Yes Ease of Applying 6/10 Tax Obligations Yes, when spending more than 183 days Global Peace Index Ranking 38/163
🍃 Why Estonia is a great place for Remote Workers
Estonia is a beautiful country by the Baltic Sea, with breathtaking landscapes and lush green spaces - almost half of the country is covered in forests!
Moreover, did you know Estonia has free wifi all over the country? That means you can work from literally anywhere. With that kind of internet access, you can easily stay productive and connected without any hassle.
Estonia also has a booming startup scene, which is supported by an abundance coworking spaces for your to checkout and explore whilst working remotely.
Time to start packing!
Lau
F.A.Q
Does Estonia offer a digital nomad visa?
Yes, Estonia offers a digital nomad visa for those who meet the requirements and want to work in Estonia.
How can I get an Estonian nomad visa?
To get an Estonian digital nomad visa, you must meet the eligibility criteria and submit an online application, followed by an interview at an Estonian Embassy.
Expect to pay either €80 ($88) (short stay) or €100 ($109) (long stay), depending on which of the two visas you’re applying for.
Do digital nomads pay tax in Estonia?
Yes, they are required to pay taxes in Estonia after spending 183 days in the country, at which point they trigger tax residency.
How long is the Estonia digital nomad visa?
Estonia has two types of digital nomad visas. One is valid for three months, the other for 12 months. After the 12 months are used, it cannot be renewed.
Is Estonia suitable for digital nomads?
Estonia is an excellent destination for remote workers looking to enjoy a high quality of life, vibrant culture and technological advancements.
Can I work remotely in Estonia?
Yes, Estonia allows digital nomads to work remotely in Estonia. You will need to meet the Estonian digital nomad visa requirements and be able to provide evidence you earn €3,504 per month after taxes.
Can I work in Estonia with an e-residency?
No, Estonian e-residents don’t have the legal rights to work and live in Estonia. You will have to apply for a digital nomad visa if you wish to do so.