If you are planning to work in Estonia and you are not from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you will need an Estonia Work Visa. This visa allows you to live and work in the country for up to one year, with the option to extend or later apply for a temporary residence permit.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know, including Estonia work visa requirements, application steps, processing time, fees, and family rules.
Do You Need a Visa to Work in Estonia?
- Yes, if you are a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you must apply for a work visa before starting employment.
- The visa is valid for 12 months. If you plan to stay longer, you must apply for a temporary residence permit.
- No, if you are from the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you only need to register your stay:
- Register in the Population Register of Estonia within three months.
- Apply for an Estonian ID card within the first month.
Conditions to Get an Estonian Work Visa
Before applying, you must meet these conditions:
- Your employer must register your employment with the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board.
- You must have a valid work contract.
- You need the right qualifications for the position.
- You must be in good health.
Estonia Work Visa Requirements
To apply, prepare the following documents:
- Valid Passport – must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay and have 2 blank pages.
- Two passport photos – recent, in color, on a light background.
- Application Form – complete the long-stay (D) visa form online, print it, and sign.
- Visa Fee Payment – attach the payment receipt.
- Health Insurance – valid across the Schengen area with minimum coverage of €30,000.
- Proof of Accommodation – rental contract, hotel booking, or invitation letter.
- Cover Letter – explain your purpose of stay and job details.
- Criminal Record Certificate – issued by your home country’s authorities.
- Work Contract – details of job type, salary, and duration.
- Qualifications – diploma, CV, licenses, etc.
Note: All documents must be in English or Estonian (translated and notarized if necessary). Missing papers can result in visa refusal.
How to Apply for an Estonia Work Visa
Step 1: Employer Registration
Your employer registers your short-term employment in Estonia. You receive an 11-digit ID code used for identification.
Step 2: Apply at Embassy/Consulate
Book an appointment at the Estonian embassy/consulate in your country. Submit all documents, attend the interview if required, and pay the fee. Wait for the embassy’s decision (email/text notification).
Step 3: Apply for Residence Permit (After Arrival)
Visit the Police and Border Guard Board (PBGB) in Estonia. Submit your documents and register your residence. Once approved, you can apply for a transportation card and use public transport for free.
Processing time for residence permit: up to 2 months.
Estonia Work Visa Processing Time
- Average processing time: 30 days.
- Delays may happen during holiday seasons or peak months.
- After arrival, add 2 more months for residence permit approval.
Estonia Work Visa Fees
- The application fee is €100.
- Payment can be made in cash or card at the embassy/consulate.
How Long Can You Stay in Estonia with a Work Visa?
- A work visa is valid for 365 days.
- To stay longer, apply for a temporary residence permit (valid for up to 5 years and renewable).
- Visa holders can also travel to other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Can You Extend an Estonia Work Visa?
Yes, you can extend your visa. Apply at least 3 working days before expiry at a PBGB office.
Bringing Your Family to Estonia
Family members can join you if you have a valid work visa or residence permit. They can work, study, and live in Estonia. Eligible family members include:
- Spouse or partner
- Cohabiting partner
- Children under 18
- Elderly dependent relatives (65+ with health problems)
Life and Work in Estonia: What to Expect
- Average salary: €1,150 per month (varies by job and skills).
- Cost of living: Around €661 per month for a single person (excluding rent).
- Health insurance: Private premium plans may cost €188 per month, though public coverage is available once you register.
Conclusion
Applying for an Estonia Work Visa is straightforward if you follow the requirements and prepare the necessary documents. With a valid job contract, health insurance, and employer registration, you can secure a visa within about a month and later apply for a residence permit to extend your stay. Estonia not only offers strong work opportunities but also a good quality of life with affordable living costs and access to the Schengen area.
