Estonia's e-Residency program offers an electronic visa, or a digital identity, that provides access to Estonia's e-services, economy and business environment, allowing entrepreneurs to establish and manage an EU-based company entirely online. It does not offer physical residency rights in Estonia.
MOBILITY ASSSET SNAPSHOT
The e-Residency program in Estonia provides a digital identity for non-Estonian citizens, enabling them to access Estonia's advanced digital infrastructure. This program is designed to attract entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and freelancers looking to establish and manage an EU-based business remotely.
Overview
A digital identity that allows access to Estonia's e-services and business environment
Eligibility Requirements
No specific nationality or residency requirements
Anchor Ancestor restrictions
Months to citizenship
Length of Visa
5 years
Months to Visa
1-2 months
Physical Presence Requirement
None
Availability
High
Family Allowance
Spouse and children
Overview
Submit application online through the official e-Residency website
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
How long does it take to process an e-Residency application?
The processing time is typically 3-8 weeks from the point of submission
Can I include my family members in my e-Residency application?
No, e-Residency is an individual digital identity. Each family member would need to apply separately if they wish to become e-residents
Does e-Residency give me the right to live in Estonia?
No, e-Residency is not a visa or residence permit. It does not confer the right to live in Estonia or enter the country without a visa
How often do I need to renew my e-Residency digital ID?
The e-Residency digital ID is valid for 5 years and can be renewed after expiration
Can e-Residency holders apply for Estonian citizenship?
No, e-Residency does not provide a pathway to Estonian citizenship. It is purely a digital identity for business purposes
benefits
Estonia e-Residency Program
The program offers numerous advantages for individuals looking to establish their digital presence in Estonia's advanced e-governance ecosystem.
Digital-friendly environment
E-residency program
Access to EU digital market
Fast Processing Time
Very simple application process
Online Submission Allowed
Visa-Free Travel Countries
155
Passport Validity
10 years
Overview
Estonia offers a highly advanced digital infrastructure, business-friendly environment, and innovative e-governance solutions.
Benefits:
Advantages:
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
How long does it take to process an e-Residency application?
The processing time is typically 3-8 weeks from the point of submission
Can I include my family members in my e-Residency application?
No, e-Residency is an individual digital identity. Each family member would need to apply separately if they wish to become e-residents
Does e-Residency give me the right to live in Estonia?
No, e-Residency is not a visa or residence permit. It does not confer the right to live in Estonia or enter the country without a visa
How often do I need to renew my e-Residency digital ID?
The e-Residency digital ID is valid for 5 years and can be renewed after expiration
Can e-Residency holders apply for Estonian citizenship?
No, e-Residency does not provide a pathway to Estonian citizenship. It is purely a digital identity for business purposes
REQUIREMENTS
Check if you qualify based on your family history
Not applicable
Personal documents: Passport, ID, Bank account+Motivational statement+Specify ID pickup location in application form+Credit card
Not applicable
Background check required
REQUIREMENTS
To qualify for e-Residency, applicants must meet specific criteria demonstrating their eligibility.
PROCESS
Initial Application
• Complete online application
• Provide digital identity verification
• Submit background information
• Pay application fee
Identity Verification
• Background check processing
• Digital ID photo submission
• Document verification
• Review intended activities
Approval & Card Issue
• Receive application decision
• Select pickup location
• Schedule collection appointment
• Card activation preparation
Digital ID Collection
• In-person identity verification
• Collect e-residency kit
• Set up digital certificates
• PIN code activation
Digital Services Setup
• Digital signature activation
• Business services registration
• Banking/payment setup
PROCESS
DOCUMENTS
Passport+State issued ID+One recent passport-style photograph+Biometrics
Not applicable
Not applicable
Estonian Police and Border Guard Board will review the application and conduct a background check
Bank accounts information
DOCUMENTS
Birth certificates from government archives; Marriage certificates for family dependencies; Police clearance records from current and past residences
Certified translations into official language(s); Apostille certification; Government-issued document legalization
Diploma and transcript verification; Professional certification authentication; Credential evaluation services
Initial application submission fee; Processing and handling charges; Administrative review fees
Fingerprint collection fee; Digital photograph requirements; Biometric data processing
Required medical examinations; Vaccination verification; Health certificate processing
Document verification fees; Background check processing; Application status updates
Consulate visit expenses; Interview travel costs; Temporary accommodation (if required)
Language proficiency testing; Skills assessment fees; Additional document requests
Immigration lawyer consultation; Document review services; Legal representation fees
Tax planning consultation; Asset transfer advisory; Investment planning services
Relocation services; Property search assistance; Settlement support services
Residency card processing; Passport issuance fees; Registration certificates
Oath ceremony fees; Registration charges; Local authority fees
Renewal fees; Status maintenance costs; Annual reporting fees
Rankings
123
Overall Rank
Cost
Based on application fee
Residency Requirements
Based on residency requirements
Residency Privileges Length
Based on programs’s term
Processing Speed
Based on estimated processing time
Eligibility Requirements
Based on entry requirements
Program Stability
Based on years of activity
Time to Permanent Residency
Based on permanent residency timeline
Rankings
Safety
24
Cost of Living
36
Quality of Life
45
Healthcare Quality
37
Internet Speed
63
Human Freedom
5
IMMIGRATION PROGRAMS
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