Estonia is a great place for innovative expats.
From having the third-highest number of startups per capita in Europe to having half of its votes cast electronically in the 2019 election to have free internet in all public areas.
Furthermore, according to a 2016 European Commission assessment, Estonia is one of the greatest places to live in Europe if you wish to live in a country where people speak English every day.
If you want to work in a technologically advanced atmosphere where everyone is connected and everyday problems are solved with digital solutions, Tallinn is the place to be.
While strolling through the capital’s gorgeous Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and along the city’s broad coastline promenades, Wifi will accompany you.
Don’t worry if you’re in a hurry; all public transportation is free which will aid in taking you where you want to be, as well as meeting up with time schedules.
Types of Work Visas in Estonia
Estonia has three different visa categories:
Type A: Airport transit visa is for those traveling through the international transit routes of the Schengen Area
Type C: A short-term visa permits you to stay in the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-days period
Type D: A long-stay visa that allows you to enter the country for up to 365 days in a 12-month period.
Travel to other Schengen countries is possible with Schengen visas (classes A and C).
Individuals who are solely visiting Estonia can apply for visas through the relevant Estonian representation. If the visit lasts more than two months and includes visits to various member states, the applicant must apply to the main destination.
The bulk of your staff, with a few exceptions, will apply for a long-term visa. They are required to present themselves in person to an Estonian representative who handles visa applications or at one of the country’s Police and Border Guard Board service points.
Requirements to Obtain Estonia Work Visas
To obtain an Estonian work visa, your staff must meet specific conditions. Firstly, you are expected to have given them an employment contract as an employer. You should also present a signed work contract confirming their commitment to work for you. It is important that you tender a letter of invitation to the Police and Border Guard Board. Occasionally an applicant may need the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund’s authorization to work. If your employee is a top specialists, they may have additional needs to meet.
Application Process
To obtain a long-stay work visa in Estonia, you will need to submit the following documents:
- A travel document with two blank visa pages that was issued within the last ten years, is valid for at least three months after the visa expires and was issued within the last ten years.
- A completed and signed application form
- A photo
- A travel insurance policy with a minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 for the duration of the trip.
- A letter from the host, work paperwork, study documents, proof of family relations, and proof of lodging are all examples of documents that prove the purpose of the journey.
- Biometrical data, including 10 fingerprints
- Payment of the visa fee of EUR 100
A non-EU citizen intending to work for more than 6 months must apply for both a residence permit and a work visa. Advisably, employees can apply for a two-year temporary residency. They can apply for a long-term residence permit those functions similarly to an Estonian work permit after staying in Estonia for five years with a temporary residence permit.
