Estonia Quick Facts
Estonia is a country located in Northern Europe that shares borders with the Gulf of Finland, the Baltic Sea, Latvia, and Russia. Estonia is a beautiful country that consists of its mainland, two large islands, and over 2,000 other islands and islets on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea.
Estonia is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a lifestyle that is quite different to others offered in Europe. Estonia is one of the least crowded countries in Europe, but it is as charming and breathtaking as all the other countries on the continent. And it’s full of medieval cities, enchanting forests, and fairy-tale settings.
Capital
Tallinn
Form of Government
Unitary multiparty republic
Population
1.3 million
Climate
Temperate and mild
Language
Estonian
Currency
Euro - Need Help Converting?
Living in Estonia as a digital nomad
Estonia is a digital hub, the perfect place for digital nomads and ex-pats to settle down.
The country is also a startup powerhouse, having produced some of the biggest startups of all time with names like Skype, Playtech, Transferwise, and Bolt, which have proven effective to attract entrepreneurs from all over the world. Estonia is a modern, organized, and tech-forward country, so digital nomads will fit right in.
Plus, reaching Estonia is surprisingly easy. There are lots of cheap flights from other places in Europe, so you’ll have no issue traveling there.
Estonia is a fantastic country that has everything one could ever need to live comfortably while enjoying the tourist attractions. Summer (June-August) is usually its busiest season, though it never gets as busy as other big cities in Europe. However, if you want to avoid crowds, it is recommended you visit during spring or fall. Winter is extremely cold in Estonia, but the snow offers a beautiful backdrop to the many Christmas markets.
Attractions and best places to visit
It’s impossible to get bored while living in Estonia. There are so many things to see!
The capital city, Tallinn, is the first place everyone goes to. And for good reason! The city is beautiful and it offers a unique look into Estonian culture and history. Tallinn’s Old Town is one of the world’s most pristinely preserved Hanseatic town centers. Tallinn’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is full of cobblestone streets and medieval churches. The most impressive sight there is the beautiful architecture scattered everywhere. You’ll see art and Gothic arches, lots of churches, and even a Russian orthodox cathedral.
Another beautiful town you should visit is Pärnu. It is just a two-hour drive away from Tallinn and it’s the perfect place to kick back, relax, and enjoy the sunshine. Pärnu has gorgeous beaches and many spas. While there, make sure to visit the Hedon SPA & Hotel. It’s almost 200 years old, and it is the oldest of its kind in Estonia.
If you’re looking to explore more of the history of Estonia, head towards Kuressaare Episcopal Castle. It is one of the best-preserved fortifications in the Baltic region. The castle has been around since the 1380s. While you’re walking the grounds, you’ll get the chance to absorb the castle’s Gothic atmosphere and explore many unique spaces like steep staircases, the central courtyard, refectory, and the bishop’s living quarters.
If you visit the Soomaa National Park, you’ll get the chance to spot lots of wildlife. The Soomaa National Park is a magical natural landscape. It covers over 359 square kilometers, and it’s home to elks, deers, beavers, wolves, bears, and many more. There are multiple hiking trails and you’ll also get the opportunity to kayak and canoe along the Raudna River and Parnu Basin.
Digital nomad hotspots
The best place to live as a digital nomad in Estonia is Tallinn. Tallinn is an amazing city filled with lots of activities. It is a modern hub and a very tech-forward city. You’ll find everything you need here. Plus, Tallinn has a big digital nomad community, so you’ll easily find many people enjoying the same lifestyle you are.
Tallinn has good internet, many accommodation options, good bars and restaurants, and multiple coworking spaces. Plus, Tallinn is the perfect place to explore Estonia’s history and culture. The locals are nice, and you’ll find many that speak English so you’ll have no problem communicating.
Tallinn is also very centric, so you can easily visit all the other places around Estonia while basing yourself in the capital city.
Cost of Living
Estonia uses the Euro as its currency, so you’ll have no trouble when it comes to exchanging your money. The country is relatively affordable, but it can get a bit pricey the closer you are to the city center. You’ll pay around $730/month for a studio apartment in the city center. A bigger apartment costs $1,105/month. A meal at an inexpensive place will cost you around $10 while a combo at a fast-food restaurant costs $8.
Tallinn is very compact and easy to get around. The city has a good public transport system that consists of buses, trolleys, and trams. The prices are as follows:
- One-hour ticket: €1.50
- One-day ticket: €4.50
- Three-day ticket: €7.50
- Five-day ticket: €9
- 30-day ticket: €30
Digital nomad essentials
Estonia has a decent internet connection, although it isn’t as good as other European countries. The average internet speed is 11.1mbps and you’ll find many places that offer free Wi-Fi. We also recommend you purchase a SIM card with a data plan to stay connected at all times.
Estonia has a fantastic selection of co-working spaces, especially in Tallinn. Check out our favorites:
Estonia also has many coffee shops that are perfect for working remotely. We recommend you visit these:
Visa Overview
In August 2020, Estonia launched its digital nomad visa for remote workers. After a year that saw remote work increase exponentially due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Estonia is taking advantage of the opportunity to attract digital nomads to the country.
This digital nomad visa will allow remote workers to live in Estonia and legally work for their employer or their own company registered abroad. It will allow them to live there for up to a year.
While the digital nomad visa for Estonia might be new, the interest of the government in facilitating immigration and access to the country’s infrastructure is not. In 2014, it launched its e-residency program which allows people around the world to access Estonian services without the need to physically be in the country.
Now, with the digital nomad visa, remote workers have a new option to enjoy everything Estonia has to offer while they keep working remotely! You can opt to apply for a short-stay visa (C-Visa) or a long-stay visa (D-Visa), each of them with a duration of 3 months or a year respectively.
It is important to note that this Visa won’t provide you with the right of citizenship or permanent residence in Estonia or the EU. On the other hand, this visa will allow you to perform work for Estonian companies while staying in the country as long as your main purpose is the remote work specified in your application.
Keep in mind that Estonia may have special requirements to travel due to COVID-19. Stay up to date with the current travel restrictions on this website!
Who Can Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa for Estonia
The digital nomad visa is available to any foreigner looking to work from Estonia while working for an employer/company registered abroad or as a freelancer offering its services to a clientele registered out of the country.
The Estonian government has not placed any restrictions based on nationalities, so anyone can apply!
You must comply with the following requirements:
Be able to work location-independent
Be able to perform your work duties remotely using telecommunications technology.
Have an active employment contract with a company registered outside of Estonia, conduct business through your own company registered abroad, or work as a freelancer for clients outside of Estonia.
Provide evidence of your income, which should meet the minimum threshold during the six months preceding the application (currently the monthly income threshold is €3504)
You will still be able to apply for this digital nomad visa for Estonia if you have an e-residence or you are already in Estonia, which is a huge plus as a lot of travelers decide to stay in a country once they are already there.
Additionally, family members will be able to travel with you to Estonia by applying for visas under the same conditions as yours.
How to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa for Estonia
The application process for the Estonian digital nomad visa is pretty straightforward. You only require certain documentation and you should be able to obtain the visa easily, without the need of having to travel to the country or finding a proxy.
In order to apply for the digital nomad visa for Estonia, you must follow these steps:
- Make sure you review the eligibility requirements.
- Gather all the required documents, listed below
- Fill in the application form online.
- Print the form and sign it after completion.
- Make an appointment at your nearest Estonian Embassy or Consulate to submit your application.
- Wait for the application to be reviewed and approved.
If you are already legally in Estonia and would like to extend your stay, you can apply for this visa at a Police and Border Guard Board office. However, if you’re applying from Estonia make sure you have enough time for the application processing period.
Documents required to apply for the digital nomad visa for Estonia
In order to apply, you’ll need the following documents:
Valid passport
A written description of your study and professional life course
35×45 mm photo
An insurance policy that covers illness expenses for the duration of the visa being requested.
Biometrical data will be collected at the time of the application
Documents certifying your income in the six months that precede the application. You must meet the minimum threshold, which at the moment is €3504 (gross of tax).
Processing fee payment
How much does it cost?
The price for a long-stay visa (D-Visa) is €100.
The price for a short-stay visa (C-Visa) is €80.
These payments are non-refundable.
Timeline for Applying
Once you’ve submitted your application to the nearest Estonian Embassy, the reviewing process takes up to 30 days. Afterward, you’ll receive a response and you’ll be able to pick up your Visa at the nearest Estonian Embassy.
FAQs About the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa
Do You Have to Pay Taxes on the Estonian Digital Nomad Visa?
Taxes are a confusing subject for just about any digital nomad. Most nomads prefer to move around frequently enough to where they do not need to pay taxes, but if you plan on staying in Estonia for a year, you will need to.
For nomads in Estonia for less than 183 consecutive days, there is no need to pay taxes. After staying for more than 183 consecutive days, you are considered a tax resident and must pay taxes. If your home country has a tax treaty with Estonia, you can reduce your tax obligation.
Can Estonia Digital Nomad Visa Be Extended?
Unfortunately, the Estonia digital nomad visa cannot be extended. You can only stay in the country for one year. If you love it and wish you could extend it, then you can reapply for a brand new digital nomad visa while you are still in Estonia.
What Are the Benefits of an Estonian Digital Nomad Visa?
There are plenty of benefits of an Estonian digital nomad visa. To name a few, you can enjoy great weather, easily travel to nearby countries, and find excellent internet connectivity just about anywhere.
Due to the availability of the digital nomad visa, there is a thriving community. Locals frequently speak English, which is such a relief. The environment is clean, and the country is beautiful. All in all, having a digital nomad visa for Estonia is beneficial because it allows you to get to know such a fantastic country.
Can I Bring Dependents on My Estonian Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes, you can bring your dependents with you while on your Estonian digital nomad visa. Dependents include your spouse, child under 18, or child over 18 who is financially or medically dependent on you. They have the same rules and regulations that you have.
What If I Am Denied a Digital Nomad Visa for Estonia?
The most common reason for getting denied would be because you do not meet the financial requirements of €3,504 or that you completed the application incorrectly or submitted false information.
You can reapply with the proper information and documentation and prove your monthly income if you get denied. However, you will have to start the application entirely over.
Can I Visit Other Schengen Countries While My Estonian Digital Nomad Visa Is Valid?
Yes, you can travel freely within the Schengen Zone to other countries. However, the same rules apply, where you can only stay in those countries for 90 days out of 180 days. This means you cannot get the Estonian digital nomad visa and spend most of your year in other Schengen countries.
What Is the Difference Between the Estonian Digital Nomad Visa and the E-residency?
First, you can get an e-residency visa. This is a more complicated option but excellent if you want to establish an online company and run it from Estonia, backed by the Estonian Government. These visas allow you to work remotely in Estonia for five years without the possibility of extending.
The digital nomad visa allows you to work remotely for a company based outside of Estonia for a period of one year. The process takes up to 30 days to complete, with standard visa rules and procedures.
The best option for you will depend on how long you want to stay in Estonia and if you are running and operating your own business or are an employee or freelancer for other companies.
Can I work remotely in Estonia?
Yes, you can work remotely in Estonia. The visa does not explicitly outline how this remote work needs to be conducted, so it is up to the employer and employee.
Does an Estonian Digital Nomad Visa Lead to Permanent Residency?
No, the Estonian digital nomad visa does not lead to permanent residency. It is only valid for one year and cannot be extended.
Can You Work for a Company Registered in Estonia with a Digital Nomad Visa?
No, you cannot work for a company registered in Estonia with a digital nomad visa. This specific type of visa is only for employees of a company registered abroad or for a freelancer for clients abroad.
