Valcorp immigration lawyers in Estonia help clients to get residence permits for various purposes. These permits can be either temporary or permanent, but most foreigners apply for a permanent one because they intend to stay for an indefinite period.
Non-EU country citizens can obtain a residence permit in Estonia, issued as an ID card, which is a mandatory identity document within the country. This permit allows for visa-free access to all EU and Schengen countries and is valid for up to five years, opening the door to permanent residency or citizenship.
Estonia offers several benefits for those looking to relocate:
- A measured pace of life
- Digital integration in many life processes, making things simpler and clearer
- Quick startup
- A well-developed benefits system
Residence by Investment in Estonia
Eligibility for a Business Residence Permit in Estonia for Non-EU Shareholders
Non-European Union shareholders who own stakes in Estonian enterprises and possess sufficient means for self-support are eligible to apply for a residence permit in Estonia for business reasons. The prerequisite for this application is the company’s registration with the Estonian Commercial Register.
Foreign nationals aiming to establish a business in Estonia have access to three distinct investment pathways, outlined as follows with their respective minimum investment requirements and additional criteria:
- Company Investment Threshold: Launching a business in Estonia necessitates an initial investment of at least €65,000 in the specified business venture.
- Sole Trader Investment Threshold: Individuals opting for a sole trader business model are mandated to invest a minimum of €16,000.
- Major Investment Option: Acquiring a temporary business residence permit is feasible through a substantial direct investment of no less than €1,000,000 into an Estonian registered company that significantly benefits the Estonian economy or into an investment fund.
Business Plan Submission: Applicants seeking a temporary business residence permit must present a comprehensive business plan detailing the business concept, target clientele, development strategies for the company, investment in fixed and circulating capital, and employment plans.
Furthermore, applicants must provide qualifications for the key individuals assuming executive roles within the company.
The evaluation process for the temporary business residence permit proposal concludes within 2 months. Following approval, the applicant is issued a residence card within a 30-day timeframe.
For assistance in establishing a company and understanding the Estonian business landscape, our Valcorp legal experts in Estonia are at your service. Additionally, we offer support for entrepreneurs looking to secure permanent residence in Estonia.
Residence permit in Estonia under business setup
EU Blue Card
The EU Blue Card serves as a temporary residence permit, offering non-EU nationals the opportunity to live and work within the EU member state that issues the card. Notably, it paves the way for obtaining a permanent residence permit more easily. Estonia, aiming to draw highly skilled foreign professionals to its workforce, grants the EU Blue Card for up to a five-year duration.
Advantages of the EU Blue Card over Standard Temporary Residence Permits:
- Job Loss Protection: EU Blue Card holders benefit from more lenient conditions in the event of unemployment. If unemployment does not surpass three consecutive months, the EU Blue Card remains valid, and the individual may qualify for unemployment benefits for up to three months.
- Extended Absence for Permanent Residency: Those wishing to acquire permanent EU residency status in Estonia can be absent from the country for up to 18 months (compared to 12 months for other temporary residence permit holders), provided the absence is linked to work as an employee or self-employed individual or to voluntary service.
Eligibility Criteria for the EU Blue Card:
- A higher education qualification, requiring at least 3 years of study in the relevant field specified in the employment contract.
- A salary that is not less than 1.5 times the average gross monthly salary in Estonia for the previous year.
- For professions with a recognized labor shortage, the salary must not be less than 1.2 times the average gross monthly salary in Estonia for the previous year.
Required Documents for EU Blue Card Application:
- A valid personal identity document recognized in Estonia.
- A filled residence permit request form.
- A recent photograph.
- A criminal record statement from the citizenship or home country if the stay there was longer than 12 months, for applicants older than 14.
- An employment contract as proof of subsistence means.
- Proof of payment for the state fee.
How long will my EU Blue Card be valid?
The standard period of validity in Estonia is: 27 months.
Specific rules: In Estonia, the EU Blue Card is issued for the duration of the employment contract plus three months, but this duration must be less than two years and three months. An EU Blue Card can be renewed multiple times for up to four years and three months at a time.
Family members accompanying the foreigner must also provide documents proving their relationship and, for minors, a notarized or officially witnessed parental consent if traveling without one parent.
Particularly for those seeking to work as highly skilled workers, obtaining an EU Blue Card is necessary. Eligibility for the Blue Card requires a university or college degree from a program lasting at least three years or proof of at least five years of relevant professional experience. Our Estonian lawyers can provide further details about the Blue Card requirements.
After five years of continuous temporary residence in the EU with a Blue Card, you can apply for Estonian residency, provided you have lived in Estonia for the last two years.
Start-Up Visa
The start-up visa is designed for entrepreneurs from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) aiming to establish technology-driven businesses in Estonia with the potential for global growth, innovation, and significant contribution to Estonia’s business ecosystem, as stipulated in Section 62(4) of the Aliens Act. This visa pathway leads to the possibility of Permanent Residence (PR) and ultimately Estonian citizenship.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate their intention to set up an Estonian startup that:
- Has global growth potential.
- Is innovative and replicable.
- Will significantly enhance the Estonian business landscape.
A detailed business plan or proof of business funding is not a requirement. However, the business must incorporate advanced technology in its product development or service delivery. Applicants must apply through the Estonian Startup Committee, providing details on their business idea, team, and market strategy. Approval from this committee is necessary for the visa application process.
Documents Required:
For the temporary residence permit, you’ll need:
- A completed application form.
- A passport photo.
- Proof of application fee payment.
- Valid passport or travel document.
- Startup Committee approval.
- Bank statements.
- Proof of accommodation.
- A medical insurance policy.
For short-term or long-term visas, requirements include the application form, a photo, travel document, Startup Committee approval, return flight tickets, medical insurance, and proof of accommodation and subsistence.
For those interested in moving to Estonia with a start-up, the process is designed to attract businesses and requires approval from a committee of experts. Start-up employees must apply for a visa or residency permit in person at an Estonian representation.
Relocating through a start-up can be beneficial for hiring non-EU employees or for personal relocation.
Digital Nomad Visa
Estonia offers a unique opportunity for digital nomads—individuals who work remotely and are not tied to a specific location—allowing them to reside in the country for up to one year for professional purposes. Importantly, applicants do not need to be employed by an Estonian company but can apply for the Estonian digital nomad visa directly.
Requirements for the Estonian Digital Nomad Visa:
- Individuals whose work is location-independent, relying on telecommunications technology.
- Those who are either in continuous employment with a non-Estonian company or operate as freelancers with clientele predominantly outside Estonia.
Prospective applicants are advised to arrange their accommodation in advance. The standard processing time of 30 days. Background checks are mandatory for all applicants, and it’s worth noting that some Estonian representations, such as those in Russia, may not accept applications.
Digital Nomad Visa Extension and Family Inclusion:
The digital nomad visa cannot be extended beyond one year. However, before the visa expires, holders in Estonia can reapply for an additional six months, with the total allowable stay capped at 18 months. Immediate family members—spouses and dependent children—can also be brought to Estonia under this visa, for the same duration.
Advantages of the Estonian Digital Nomad Visa:
- Simplified application process without extensive documentation.
- Freedom to travel within the Schengen Area.
- Option to bring immediate family members to Estonia.
- Potential tax benefits based on residency duration and tax treaties.
- High quality of life with robust digital infrastructure, healthcare, and safety.
For further information on the digital nomad visa, e-residency, or assistance in applying, our team of legal experts in Estonia is ready to help.
Country have no limitations on nationalities or countries of residence who can apply for Estonia residence permit. People from all nationalities are welcome to apply for Estonia residence permit. Estonia generally is a very welcoming country to foreigners with paramount values in human rights protection and solidarity.
Contact Valcorp immigration lawyers today to find out more information about the Estonia residence permit opportunities for you and your family.
E-mail: info@valcorp.eu
Phone: +372 55658650
To find out about residence possibilities in Estonia visit: Immigration Services in Estonia – Valcorp Business Solutions
Tax information in Estonia: Tax & Fiscal Representation in Estonia – Valcorp Business Solutions
Trademark, patent and design registration in Estonia: Trademarks & Patents & Design in Estonia – Valcorp Business Solutions