If you work remotely, you can apply for a digital nomad visa, and live in Estonia for up to one year.
This country is a favorite destination for digital nomads due to the relatively low costs and high quality of life—not to mention that it’s also full of natural beauty and a vibrant cultural scene.
Estonia, with a score of 87.60, ranks 39th in the VisaGuide Digital Nomad Index of destinations for remote workers.
Estonia: Quick facts
Estonia Digital Nomad Visa Eligibility Criteria
You qualify for Estonia’s digital nomad visa if you work abroad, which means:
- You work for a company registered outside Estonia
- You work as a freelancer for clients abroad
- You have your own company registered abroad.
Additionally, you have to make a minimum income of €4,500/month, but the exact amount is subject to change.
This visa is temporary, and does not grant the holder rights to permanent residence or citizenship in Estonia.
How to Apply for the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa?
To start your application for Estonia’s digital nomad visa, you have to complete the application form online on the e-Residency portal. You have to fill out the form for a Long-stay visa (D-visa) application.
The application form consists of 13 pages where you have to provide information about:
- Your personal data (name, last name, age, nationality, address, and contact info)
- Your job (your profession, current position and company, your employer’s address, email and telephone number)
- The type of visa you are applying for (remote work)
- Where you will live while you are in Estonia
- How you will finance yourself
Once you have completed the electronic application form, print out a copy and sign it. Add it to the rest of the required supporting documents.
After you have all your documents, you have to submit the application in person to the Estonian embassy (if you are abroad) or the Police and Border Guard office (if you are already in Estonia).
See the Estonian diplomatic missions which are handling visa applications here. Nationals of the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, and Ukraine can submit their applications to a relevant VFS office.
Applying for an Estonian digital nomad visa costs €100.
Yes, your digital nomad visa can be denied if you don’t meet the requirements or if you are dishonest during your application. The most common reasons why a visa is denied are:
- You do not meet the eligibility criteria (e.g., you do not have enough money as required for the digital nomad visa.)
- You provided false information or documents.
- You provide incomplete or incorrect documents.
- You have a criminal background.
If your visa application is rejected because you made a mistake during the application process (e.g., you submitted the wrong documents or provided wrong information), you can reapply for the visa and make sure you have everything you need the next time around.
However, if the visa is denied because you do not meet the eligibility criteria, you may have to consider other options, like obtaining a tourist visa or getting an Estonian work visa.
What Documents Are Required for the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa?
You need to have the following documents to apply for the Estonian digital nomad visa:
- Valid passport. Your passport must be valid for at least three months after you leave Estonia. It should also have two blank pages and must be in good condition. You should include a copy of previous visas (if applicable).
- Completed and signed application form. You have to print and sign the online application form and attach it to the rest of the documents.
- Work contract. Document proof that you have a valid work contract with companies or clients outside of Estonia.
- Letter from your employer. You must provide a letter from your employer stating that you intend to work remotely.
- Bank statement. A document issued by your bank within the last six months that must prove you have enough monthly income to finance yourself during your stay in Estonia.
- Proof of accommodation in Estonia. This document can be a rental agreement, hotel reservation, invitation letter, etc., and will serve as proof that you have found a place to stay in Estonia.
- Proof of paid fee. The payment receipt that shows you have completed the payment.
- Criminal record. This is a document issued by the police of your home country. It must prove that you don’t have any criminal record in your home country and that you will not be a threat to the Republic of Estonia.
- Proof of health insurance coverage. You must have valid health insurance that covers the whole Schengen area. Your health insurance must have coverage of €30.000.
- University degree. Certificate of your studies (diploma), training certificate, and other certificates (if any).
What Is the Validity of the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa?
Estonia issues the digital nomad visa with a validity of up to 12 months (one year).
This visa cannot be extended, but you can apply for a new visa while you are in Estonia at the Police Border Guard Border.
Can I Bring My Family Members While on a Digital Nomad Visa?
The digital nomad visa allows you to bring your family members with you to Estonia. Just make sure to submit the necessary documentation to verify that your dependents will be accompanying you throughout your stay in Estonia.
Do I Need to Pay Taxes as a Digital Nomad in Estonia?
If you live in Estonia for more than 183 days in a year then you need to pay taxes. After this period of stay, you will be considered an Estonian tax resident, consequently, you also have to declare and pay taxes. You’ll be taxed on your worldwide income at the flat 20% rate.
If you have any questions regarding taxes please direct them to the Estonian Tax and Customs Board by email to [email protected].
Living Costs for Digital Nomads in Estonia
You should prepare to have about €1000 to cover your monthly expenses. Keep in mind that your lifestyle preferences affect how much you will spend per month.
See the examples below to have a general idea of living costs in Estonia.
| Accommodation (Rent): | |
| 1 Bedroom Apartment in City Centre | From €400 to €800 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of Centre | From €300 to €600 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment in City Centre | From €750 to €1,700 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of Centre | From €500 to €1,100 |
| Groceries | |
| Milk | €1.05 |
| Rice | €2.06 |
| Eggs | €2.49 |
| Apples (1kg) | €1.67 |
| Banana (1kg) | €1.28 |
| Tomato (1kg) | €2.49 |
| Potato (1kg) | €0.87 |
| Utilities (Monthly) | |
| Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage (85m2 apartment) | From €185 to €425 |
| Transportation | |
| Local transport | €1.00 – €2.00 |
| Taxi 1km | €0.57 – €1.30 |
| Gasoline (1l) | €1.62 – €1.90 |
Best Places for Digital Nomads in Estonia
As a digital nomad, the best places for you to live in Estonia include:
- Tallinn – the capital city is perfect if you love and want to learn more about the history and culture of Estonia. This area is also a great place for food lovers and has a diverse cuisine.
- Tartu – great if you want a more affordable place. This area is one of the best cities in Estonia to move to, known for the oldest universities and numerous museums.
- Pärnu – if you love the beach and want to work in a relaxing environment. This place is known for its music, dance, food and art, so if you are a culture lover, you will enjoy living here.
- Haapsalu – if you’re looking to live in a coastal town with a romantic vibe and a tranquil environment.
- Lahemaa National Park – if you want to work surrounded by nature, this area has beautiful forests, bogs, and coastline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a limited number of how many digital nomad visas are issued?
No, there isn’t a limited number or quota for the number of visas that can be issued.
What is the processing time for the digital nomad visa applications?
The processing time for the Estonia digital nomad visa is 15 working days.
Can I become a citizen of Estonia with a digital nomad visa?
No, the digital nomad visa does not give you the right to citizenship or permanent residency in Estonia.
Can I travel to other Schengen countries if I have the Estonia digital nomad visa?
Yes, you can visit other Schengen member countries as a digital nomad living in Estonia.