Guide to Moving to Estonia as an Expat

Published on October 2, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Estonia, this small Baltic country nestled between the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Finland, is attracting more and more expatriates seeking professional opportunities and exceptional quality of life. Renowned for its thriving digital economy and pleasant living environment, Estonia offers a unique blend of modernity and traditions. In this article, we’ll guide you through all the essential steps to successfully settle in Estonia, from preparing your departure to integrating into the local community.

Prepare for the Big Leap: Essential Steps Before Departure

Before packing your bags for Estonia, thorough preparation is essential. This crucial step will help you establish solid foundations for your new life and avoid unpleasant surprises upon arrival.

Research information about Estonia: Start by learning about Estonian history, culture, and lifestyle. This knowledge will help you better understand your future host country and adapt more easily. Estonia is known for its well-preserved medieval heritage, particularly in Tallinn’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s also famous for its commitment to technology and innovation, often nicknamed “e-Estonia” due to its advanced digital government services.

Learn the basics of the Estonian language: Although English is widely spoken in major cities and professional environments, mastering a few basic Estonian phrases will be very useful in daily life and will be appreciated by locals. Estonian is a Finno-Ugric language, quite different from Indo-European languages, but learning it can be a rewarding experience. Apps like Duolingo or online courses can help you get started.

Prepare your documents: Make sure you have all necessary documents in order. This includes your passport (valid for at least six months after your planned arrival date), copies of your diplomas and professional certificates, as well as official translations if necessary. If you’re an EU citizen, you won’t need a visa to enter Estonia, but you must register with local authorities if staying more than three months.

Plan your budget: Create a detailed budget considering the cost of living in Estonia. Although generally lower than in many Western European countries, the cost of living can vary significantly between Tallinn, the capital, and smaller cities. Plan sufficient funds to cover your initial expenses, including housing, food, and transportation, for at least the first three months.

Organize your move: If you plan to bring your personal belongings, research reputable international moving companies. Compare quotes and make sure you understand insurance conditions and delivery times. Don’t forget to check Estonian customs restrictions to avoid any problems upon arrival.

Contact the Estonian embassy: Reach out to the Estonian embassy or consulate in your home country to get the latest information on entry and stay requirements. They can provide valuable advice on administrative procedures to follow.

Welcome to Estonia: First Steps to Take Upon Arrival

Once you’ve arrived on Estonian soil, several administrative procedures await you to formalize your status and start your new life on the right foot.

Register with local authorities: If you’re an EU citizen and plan to stay more than three months, you must register with the Police and Border Guard Board (Politsei- ja Piirivalveamet) within three months of your arrival. You’ll then receive an Estonian personal identification number, essential for many administrative procedures.

Get your electronic ID card: Estonia is at the forefront of digitalizing public services. Your electronic ID card (ID-kaart) will allow you to access many online services, sign documents electronically, and even vote in local elections after residing in Estonia for a certain period.

Open a bank account: To facilitate your financial transactions, open an Estonian bank account as soon as possible. Major banks in Estonia, like SEB, Swedbank, or LHV, offer services in English and highly developed online banking options. You’ll need your passport and personal identification number to open an account.

Register for social security: The Estonian healthcare system is based on mandatory health insurance. If you work in Estonia, your employer will typically handle your registration. If you’re self-employed or unemployed, you’ll need to register yourself with the Estonian Health Insurance Fund (Eesti Haigekassa).

Find a general practitioner: In Estonia, every resident must choose a family doctor (perearst) who will be their first point of contact for healthcare. You can find a list of available doctors on the Estonian Health Insurance Fund website.

Familiarize yourself with public transportation: Major Estonian cities, particularly Tallinn, have efficient public transportation networks. In Tallinn, registered residents even benefit from free public transportation. Get a transportation card (Ühiskaart) that will allow you to use buses, trams, and trolleybuses.

Finding Your Home: The Quest for Perfect Housing in Estonia

Finding housing is a crucial step in your Estonian settlement. Whether you choose to rent or buy, here are some tips to help you find the ideal home.

Choose your neighborhood: Before starting your search, think about your priorities. Do you want to live in the heart of the action in Tallinn, in a historic neighborhood like Kalamaja, or do you prefer a calmer atmosphere in a city like Tartu or Pärnu? Each city and neighborhood has its own charm and advantages.

Use specialized websites: The main housing search websites in Estonia are KV.ee and City24.ee. These platforms offer a wide range of options, from downtown apartments to suburban houses. Most listings are in Estonian, but you can use your browser’s translation function for initial understanding.

Use a real estate agency: If the language barrier poses a problem, consider using a real estate agency. Many of them offer services in English and can help you navigate the local real estate market. Make sure you understand their fees before committing.

Understand lease terms: Rental contracts in Estonia are generally written in Estonian. Don’t hesitate to request an English translation or use a professional translator to ensure you fully understand all terms before signing. Check especially the lease duration, security deposit amount, and termination conditions.

Prepare for additional costs: Besides rent, you’ll typically need to pay utilities (kommunaalkulud) that include water, heating, electricity, and sometimes internet. These costs can vary significantly depending on the season, especially for heating in winter.

Register your address: Once you’ve found your home, don’t forget to register your new address with the Population Register (Rahvastikuregister). This procedure is mandatory and can be completed online via the eesti.ee portal.

Opening Estonia’s Doors: Practical Guide to Obtaining Your Visa

Although EU/EEA and Swiss citizens don’t need a visa to settle in Estonia, nationals from other countries will need to obtain a residence permit. Here are the steps to follow to get your Estonian visa or residence permit.

Determine the type of visa you need: Estonia offers different types of visas and residence permits depending on your situation. The most common are: – Temporary residence permit for work – Residence permit for studies – D visa for long-term stay (up to 12 months) – Residence permit for entrepreneurship

Gather necessary documents: Required documents vary depending on the visa type, but generally include: – Valid passport – Biometric-standard ID photos – Proof of sufficient financial resources – Valid health insurance for the duration of stay – Employment contract or admission letter from an Estonian university (depending on reason for stay)

Submit your application: You can submit your visa or residence permit application at the Estonian embassy or consulate in your country of residence. For certain types of permits, it’s also possible to apply online via the Police and Border Guard Board portal.

Pay application fees: Fees vary depending on the type of visa or permit requested. Make sure to pay the fees when submitting your application.

Wait for the decision: Processing time can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the visa type and complexity of your application. You’ll be informed of the decision by email or mail.

Collect your visa or residence permit: If your application is approved, you’ll need to go to the embassy or consulate to pick up your visa. For residence permits, you’ll need to visit the Police and Border Guard Board in Estonia in person to provide your biometric data and receive your residence card.

Stay Compliant: Renewing Your Residence Permit

Once settled in Estonia, it’s crucial to remain compliant by renewing your residence permit before it expires. Here are the steps to follow to ensure continuity of your legal stay.

Check your permit’s expiration date: Start by checking the expiration date of your current residence permit. It’s recommended to begin renewal procedures at least two months before this date.

Gather necessary documents: Documents required for renewal are generally similar to those for the initial application, but may include additional proof of your integration in Estonia, such as: – Current employment contract or proof of stable income – Proof of housing in Estonia – Certificate of your Estonian language level (if applicable)

Submit your renewal application: You can generally submit your renewal application online via the Police and Border Guard Board portal. If your situation has significantly changed, it may be necessary to visit a service office in person.

Pay renewal fees: Renewal fees vary depending on the permit type. Make sure to pay them when submitting your application.

Wait for the decision: Processing time for renewal is generally shorter than for an initial application, but still plan for several weeks.

Collect your new residence permit: If your application is approved, you’ll need to visit the Police and Border Guard Board to provide your biometric data and collect your new residence card.

Navigating Estonian Bureaucracy: Essential Administrative Procedures

Estonia is renowned for its efficient and largely digitalized administration. Nevertheless, there are certain essential administrative procedures that every expatriate should know and complete.

Get your personal identification number: This number, called “isikukood,” is the cornerstone of your administrative life in Estonia. It will be assigned during your initial registration and will be necessary for almost all your future procedures.

File your taxes: Estonia has a relatively simple tax system, with a flat 20% tax rate on income. Tax filing is generally done online and is pre-filled with information provided by your employer. You must verify and submit it annually between February and April.

Register for the healthcare system: If you work in Estonia, your employer will automatically register you for the public healthcare system. If you’re self-employed or unemployed, you’ll need to register yourself with the Estonian Health Insurance Fund.

Register your vehicle: If you bring your vehicle to Estonia or purchase one locally, you must register it with the Estonian Road Administration (Maanteeamet) within 30 days of your arrival or purchase.

Register your children for school: If you have school-age children, you must enroll them in a local school. Education is compulsory in Estonia for children aged 7 to 17. Registration is generally done with the local municipality.

Update your address: Whenever you move within Estonia, you must update your address in the population register within 14 days of moving. This procedure can be completed online via the eesti.ee portal.

Know Your Rights: Essential Laws and Regulations for Expatriates in Estonia

As an expatriate in Estonia, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and obligations. Here’s an overview of the main laws and regulations that directly concern you.

Labor law: Estonia has relatively flexible labor laws. The standard work week is 40 hours, with a minimum of 28 days of paid vacation per year. Employment contracts must be written and can be fixed-term or indefinite.

Residence rights: EU/EEA and Swiss citizens have the right to reside and work in Estonia without a work permit. However, they must register with local authorities if staying more than three months. Nationals from other countries must obtain a residence and work permit before arrival.

Social rights: Expatriates working legally in Estonia generally have the same social benefits as Estonian citizens, including health insurance, family allowances, and unemployment benefits.

Taxation: Estonia applies a flat 20% tax rate on income. Tax residents are taxed on their worldwide income, while non-residents are only taxed on their Estonian-source income.

Property ownership: There are generally no restrictions for foreigners wanting to purchase real estate in Estonia. However, purchasing agricultural or forest land may be subject to certain limitations.

Education: Education is compulsory for all children aged 7 to 17 residing in Estonia, including expatriates’ children. Public education is free, but there are also paid international schools in major cities.

Driving: Driving licenses issued by EU/EEA countries are valid in Estonia. License holders from other countries can drive with their original license for 12 months, after which they must obtain an Estonian license.

Integrate into Estonian Society: Tips for Building Lasting Connections

Integrating into a new culture can be challenging, but it’s also a rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you integrate harmoniously into Estonian society.

Learn the language: Although English is widely spoken, especially in major cities, learning Estonian will open many doors for you. The state offers free language courses for newcomers. Take advantage of them!

Participate in cultural events: Estonia has a rich tradition of festivals and cultural events throughout the year. The Song and Dance Festival, held every five years, is a highlight of Estonian culture.

Explore nature: Estonians have a strong connection with nature. Participate in hikes, mushroom picking, or forest outings to share this passion.

Join expatriate groups: Groups like “InterNations Tallinn” or “Expats in Tallinn” on social media can help you meet other expatriates and get valuable advice.

Engage in volunteering: Volunteering is an excellent way to meet locals and contribute to your community. Organizations like Volunteer in Estonia can help you find opportunities.

Embrace the sauna: The sauna is an important part of Estonian culture. Don’t hesitate to participate in this tradition to integrate and socialize.

Respect local customs: Estonians generally appreciate quiet and personal space. Be mindful of these aspects of local culture in your daily interactions.

Settling in Estonia as an expatriate is an exciting adventure that offers many opportunities. With its unique culture, dynamic economy, and commitment to digital innovation, Estonia has much to offer newcomers. By following this guide and remaining open to new experiences, you’ll be well prepared to start your new life in this fascinating Baltic country.

Remember that every expatriation experience is unique. Be patient with yourself during your adaptation period and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed. Over time, you’ll discover all the treasures Estonia has to offer and create your own story in this welcoming country.