Introducing the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa Requirements & Application 2023 – a comprehensive guide for professionals seeking the flexibility of remote work in a digitally advanced nation.
Discover the essentials of eligibility criteria, application processes, and documentation to successfully obtain this innovative visa and embrace the Estonian e-lifestyle.
Estonia Digital Nomad Visa – Key Points Explained
Estonia’s Digital Nomad Visa is designed to facilitate remote work for professionals in a digitally progressive environment.
Here are the key points to consider before you apply :
- Eligibility : you must be able to work remotely, possess a minimum monthly income of 3504 € / $3800 (gross), and demonstrate a contractual relationship with your employer or clients outside Estonia.
- Duration : the Estonia digital nomad visa is available in two different types : short-term (up to 90 days) and long-term (up to 12 months), with no possibility for extension.
- Application Process : submit an online application, pay the processing fee (80 € – 100 €), and provide the necessary documents such as a valid passport, proof of income, and health insurance.
- Remote Work Opportunities : Estonia boasts a robust digital infrastructure and a thriving start-up ecosystem, with ample remote work opportunities and networking possibilities.
- Quality of Life : the country offers a high standard of living, affordable accommodation, and access to excellent healthcare and educational facilities.
Is It Hard To Get An Estonian Digital Nomad Visa ?
Acquiring an Estonian Digital Nomad Visa is not necessarily challenging, but you absolutely have to meet specific criteria to be eligible.
The process demands thorough documentation, including proof of remote work or business ownership, and evidence of sufficient income.
You must exercise diligence and patience in gathering required materials to ensure a smooth application experience, ultimately reaping the benefits of this innovative visa program.
Digital Nomad Visa For Estonia – Types To Consider
Estonia offers two different types of digital nomad visas :
- Short-term Digital Nomad Visa (Type C) : this short stay visa grants you the right to reside and work remotely in Estonia for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is ideal if you’re seeking a temporary base in Estonia without committing to a long-term stay.
- Long-term Digital Nomad Visa (Type D) : this visa allows you to reside and work in Estonia for up to 12 months. It is well-suited for those who wish to explore the country in depth and establish stronger connections with the local community. You will have to prove a minimum monthly income of 3504 € / $3800 (gross) to qualify.
Eligibility & Estonia Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
Here are the Estonia nomad visa requirements you will have to meet in order to apply for the Estonia digital nomad visa :
- Proof of Remote Work : you must demonstrate that you are either employed by a company registered abroad or conducting business through a foreign entity with telecommunications technology. Employment contracts, invoices, or other official documents can serve as evidence.
- Monthly income threshold : you must meet a minimum monthly income requirement of 3504 € / $3800 (gross) during the six months preceding the application. This ensures you can support yourself while living in Estonia.
- Adequate health Insurance : a valid health insurance policy covering your entire stay in Estonia is mandatory. This policy must provide coverage for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation.
- Clean Criminal Record : a background check from your home country confirming the absence of any criminal history is necessary.
- Valid Passport : a passport with at least six months’ validity beyond the visa’s duration is required.
More About Digital Nomad Visa Estonia Income Requirements
To qualify for the Estonia digital nomad visa, you must meet specific income requirements, which ensure that you are financially stable and able to contribute to the local economy.
The minimum threshold requirement is 3504 € / $3800 (gross), which must be consistently maintained for six months prior to the application.
This income can be derived from various sources such as employment, freelancing, or business ownership. You will have to provide official documentation to verify the income (payslips, invoices, or contracts for example).
Digital Nomad Visa Estonia Documents
Here is a document checklist you will have to get for your visa application :
- Application form : complete the DNV application form, available on the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
- Passport : provide a passport with a minimum of 6 months validity remaining.
- Photo : submit a recent passport-size color digital photo.
- Proof of income : provide documents to demonstrate a stable, regular income that meets or exceeds the minimum requirement.
- Employment or business details : submit contracts, payslips, or invoices as evidence of work-related activities and income sources.
- Health insurance certificate : present proof of valid international health insurance that covers the entire duration of the visa.
- Criminal record check : provide a certificate from your home country, showing no criminal convictions.
- Proof of residence : submit a document confirming your accommodation arrangements in Estonia (rental agreement, hotel reservation…).
- Visa fee payment : provide proof of the visa application fee payment, which varies depending on the visa type (short-term or long-term).
- Motivation letter : include a brief explanation of your intentions for residing in Estonia as a digital nomad and how you plan to contribute to the local community.
Estonia Digital Nomad Visa Apply These Steps
Follow this step-by-step guide in order to obtain your Estonia digital nomad visa.
Here we explain how to apply for Estonia digital nomad visa.
1. Assess Your Eligibility
Before you begin the application process, make sure you meet the criteria for a digital nomad visa. You must work remotely, maintain a stable income of at least 3504 € per month, and have a valid passport with a minimum of six months remaining.
2. Gather the Required Documents
Prepare all the required documents, including your passport, proof of income, employment or business details, health and travel insurance, criminal record check, proof of residence, and visa fee payment.
3. Complete the Application Form
Visit the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to access the digital nomad visa application form. Fill out the form accurately and ensure all the details you enter are correct.
4. Prepare a Motivation Letter
Compose a brief letter explaining your reasons for choosing Estonia as a digital nomad destination, and how you plan to contribute to the local community during your stay.
5. Submit the Application
Once all documents are prepared, submit your completed application form, motivation letter, and supporting documents to the nearest Estonian consulate or embassy. You also have the option to submit your application electronically, but it will depend on your country of residence.
6. Attend an Interview
After your application has been reviewed, you may be required to attend an in person interview at the consulate or embassy. This interview will help determine your eligibility and suitability for the digital nomad visa.
7. Receive your visa
Depending on the application processing period and whether you submit your application form online or at the embassy, the processing time varies from two to six weeks.
Digital Nomad Travel Visa Estonia Renewal Process
The Digital Nomad Visa for Estonia can be valid for up to one year, but it cannot be extended or renewed.
Once the visa expires, you must leave the country and may later apply for a new visa, following the same application procedure as before.
However, you will have to meet the eligibility criteria and provide up-to-date documentation.
How Long Is An Estonian Digital Nomad Visa Valid For ?
The Estonia digital nomad visa Schengen is available in two types :
- the short-term Type C visa
- and the long-term Type D visa
The Type C visa is valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, it is great if you have shorter stays in mind.
On the other hand, the Type D visa offers a longer validity period as it allows you to reside in Estonia for up to a year. Also, digital nomads won’t be able to renew it.
Cost Of Digital Nomad Visa Estonia
The cost to obtain an Estonia Digital Nomad Visa in Estonia varies depending on the type of visa you apply for:
- For short-term stay visas, or Type C visa, the application fee is 80 €.
- For long-term stay visas, or Type D visa, the application fee is a little higher : 100 €.
These fees cover the processing and issuance of the visa and they are non-refundable, regardless of the application’s outcome.
You will also have to add to this fee health insurance, accommodation and other expenses.
Digital Nomad Visa Estonia Taxes To Expect
How do Estonia digital nomad visa taxes work ?
Whether you pay tax or not will all depend on your individual circumstances:
- If you are considered as a tax resident in Estonia, you may be subject to taxation on your worldwide income. To be deemed a tax resident, you have to stay in Estonia for at least 183 days during a 12-month period.
- If not, you’ll be considered as a non-resident and will only have to pay taxes on income earned from Estonian sources.
The personal income tax liability in Estonia is a flat rate of 20%. Depending on your tax residency, you may be required to pay social tax if you’re not covered in your home country.
Estonia Digital Nomad Visa Processing Time
Following standard visa application procedures, the processing time for the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa depends on your nationality, the completeness of your application, the workload of the Estonian embassy…
You can expect a processing time of 15 to 30 days for the short-term Type C visa and up to 30 days or more for the long-term type of digital nomad visa.
Bringing Family With You
The Estonian digital nomad visa doesn’t automatically include family members.
No matter if you want to bring your spouse, partner, or / and children, they will have to apply for a separate residence permit or visa to come with you.
Your legal income will also have to be sufficient to support your family members.
Cost Of Living In Estonia
Good news if your plan is to move to Estonia for a few months : the country is one of the most affordable in Europe.
Here is a list of what digital nomads can expect to pay while living and working in Estonia.
| Accommodation | Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent | 500 to 600 € / $540 to $648 |
| Buy | 35000 to 150000 € / $40000 to $162000 |
| Hotels | 80 € / $85 |
| BnB | 30 to 60 € / $32 to $65 |
| Food | Cost |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | 10 to 20 € / $11 to $22 |
| Groceries | 150 to 200 € / $158 to $215 /month/pers |
| Fast Food | 5 to 10 € / $5 to $11 |
| Transports | Cost |
|---|---|
| Train | 10 to 15 € / $10 to $16 per 100km |
| Bus | 2 to 2.5 € / $2,10 to $2.63 per trip |
| Taxi | 1 to 2 € / $1.05 to $2.10 per km |
| Car rental | 20 to 50 € / $22 to $54 per day |
| Airplane | 80 to 100 € / $86 to $108 per national trip |
| Leisure | Cost |
|---|---|
| Day excursion | 40 to 100 € / $43 to $108 |
| Nightlife | 10 to 30 € / $32 to $22 |
| Museum / attractions | 5 to 10 € / $5 to $11 |
| Outdoor activities | 10 to 50 € / $11 to $54 |
Is There Digital Banking In Estonia ?
Estonia created the e residency program and is one of the most tech developed countries in Europe.
The country is renowned for its advanced digital infrastructure and innovative e-services, and this, of course, includes digital banking.
Both local and international banks operating in Estonia offer comprehensive online and mobile banking services.
Amongst the best neobanks in Estonia, you will find:
- Bunq
- LHV Bank
- and SEB Bank
Do you go on business trips often? Make your travel hassle-free by using these banking services with apps designed specifically for business travel.
Popular Digital Nomad Hotspots (Cities) In Estonia
Here is a list of some of Estonian best cities to live in as a digital nomad.
Tallinn
Estonia’s capital boasts a growing startup scene and a wide range of coworking spaces.
The city is pretty modern and has a lot of great infrastructure for remote workers. But Tallinn’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will add some historical charm to your experience.
Tartu
Tartu is Estonia’s second-largest city. It is known for its intellectual atmosphere as it’s where you’ll find the famous University of Tartu.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back environment and a pretty low cost of living, then you will love joining its digital nomad community.
Pärnu
Located on Estonia’s western coast, Pärnu is a popular seaside resort town.
Imagine yourself working from a beautiful sandy beach and enjoying your days off hiking in picturesque parks. A great destination for outdoor activities and farniente !
Kuressaare
On the island of Saaremaa, the charming town of Kuressaare provides a unique island experience for digital nomads.
It’s an excellent choice for remote workers looking for a serene and inspiring environment away from urban hustle.
Viljandi
With its annual folk music festival and rich cultural heritage, Viljandi offers you a peaceful and affordable lifestyle.
Only drawback : one year won’t probably be enough to enjoy this paradise !
Are There Coworking Communities In Estonia ?
Wishing to join a remote workers community while living and working in Estonia ?
Good news, Estonia is one of the best developed Schengen countries for digital nomads.
Here are, for us, the best cities to live in if you want to join a coworking community.
Tallinn
Tallinn is home to numerous coworking spaces that cater to the digital nomad community.
Spring Hub, Lift99, Work27 and Impact Hub Tallinn offer modern facilities, high-speed internet, and networking opportunities.
These coworking communities foster collaboration, innovation, and connection among remote professionals.
Tartu
Tartu is known to be Estonia’s intellectual hub, and the city also features coworking communities with spaces like MobiSpace and sTARTUp HUB that offer state-of-the-art amenities, flexible membership options, and a diverse community of like-minded professionals.
Pärnu
The picturesque coastal town of Pärnu has also embraced the coworking trend by providing shared workspaces for digital nomads and remote workers, like ForwardSpace or Pärnu StartUp Keskus, for example.
All of them provide an ideal environment for digital nomads who seek a work-life balance within a relaxed and beachside setting.
Final Pros & Benefits
The Estonia Digital Nomad Visa offers numerous advantages for digital nomads looking for a Schengen country.
- The long-term Type D visa allows you to reside in Estonia for up to one year and is actually pretty easy to obtain as long as you meet the requirements.
- Also, Estonia offers a relatively low cost of living compared to other European nations. It’s a budget-friendly option if you’re looking for a cheap place !
- Another advantage is the fact that Estonia is a frontrunner in digital technology. It’s one of the European countries offering the fastest internet connectivity and the most innovative e-services !
Few Drawbacks To Have In Mind
Unfortunately, Estonia digital nomad visas are not perfect and there are a few drawbacks you should consider before you submit your application to the Estonian government.
- One of the big black points is the fact that the Estonian digital nomad visa cannot be extended or renewed. This means you will absolutely have to leave the country after one year, unless you ask for permanent residency.
- Also, the digital nomad visa does not automatically cover family members, and each of them will have to apply separately.
- Finally, you will only be able to work for a foreign employer or a company registered abroad.
3 Alternative Countries With Similar Requirements We Recommend
Estonia digital nomad visa doesn’t fulfill all your requirements ?
Here is a list of other Schengen countries you could also consider.
Croatia
Croatia offers a dedicated digital nomad visa that allows you to stay in the country for up to one year. You will absolutely love its stunning coastline, beautiful islands and rich history !
Croatia is a great alternative if you’re seeking an attractive work-life balance with relatively low cost of living and a growing network of coworking spaces.
Italy
Italy should launch its digital nomad visa sometime in 2023. It’s a great alternative thanks to its beautiful landscapes, historical cities and exquisite cuisine.
Italy will provide you an inspiring and diverse environment with a range of coworking spaces and a well-developed digital infrastructure.
Germany
Germany doesn’t offer a digital nomad visa but a freelancer visa, which is almost the same, except it will allow you to stay in the country for up to three years.
In Berlin more than anywhere else, you’ll find a thriving startup scene and a real hub for innovation and creativity.
There are also plenty of other countries you could consider !
FAQs
Does Estonia offer a digital nomad visa ?
Yes, Estonia offers a Digital Nomad Visa, which enables you to work for a company registered abroad and to reside in the country for up to one year.
How hard is it to get an Estonian Digital Nomad Visa ?
It will all depend on your capacity to meet eligibility criteria : stable income, proof of remote work, etc. The process is fairly straightforward for qualified applicants.
Can I Work For A Company Registered In Estonia ?
No, the Estonian government makes it very clear that the Estonian Digital Nomad Visa is for individuals working remotely for clients or a company registered outside of Estonia.
Can I Extend the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa ?
Unfortunately, no, the Estonian Digital Nomad Visa cannot be extended. After the visa expires, you must leave the country and apply again for a short stay visa or a long stay visa.
Can I Visit Other Schengen Countries With an Estonian Digital Nomad Visa ?
As a Schengen visa, the Estonia digital nomad visa will allow you to visit a foreign country in the Schengen area during its whole validity.
Wrap Up
The Estonian Digital Nomad Visa offers you an exceptional opportunity to experience a high-quality and connected lifestyle in a digitally advanced European country.
Estonia is a great choice if you’re looking for an extended stay duration, affordable living costs, and access to the Schengen Area !
