Estonia Digital Nomad Visa: Eligibility and How to Apply

Estonia was one of the first countries in Europe to openly welcome remote workers. In 2020, it introduced a digital nomad visa that allows online workers to stay in Estonia for up to one year, while also giving them access to the Schengen area.

So if you’ve been eyeing places like Tallinn and thinking you’d like to stay longer than a weekend, this guide covers everything you need to know: who’s eligible, how the application works, how much it costs, and what life in Estonia is actually like as a digital nomad.

What Is the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa?

The Estonia Digital Nomad Visa is a temporary stay visa (either a short-stay Type C or long-stay Type D) that allows remote workers to live in Estonia for up to 12 months while working for an employer or clients based outside the country.

It does not grant permanent residency and it does not allow you to take on local employment in Estonia.

As a Type D visa holder, you can also travel within the Schengen Area up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

The most important update for 2025 is the income requirement: applicants now need to prove a minimum monthly income of €4,500 over the last six months. This recent increase is the biggest hurdle for many applicants, so make sure you meet this before anything else.

Who Can Apply for the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa

You’re eligible if you work remotely and fit at least one of these situations:

• You’re employed by a company registered outside Estonia
• You own or partner in a business registered outside Estonia
• You’re a freelancer with clients based outside Estonia

In addition to meeting the income requirement (€4,500/month for the last 6 months), you’ll also need:

• Valid health insurance
• Proof of accommodation in Estonia
• A clean criminal record

If you’re traveling with family, your partner and minor children can also apply. However, they’ll need to file separate applications. Estonia doesn’t issue dependent visas automatically for this program, so each person must qualify individually under similar conditions.

Estonia Digital Nomad Visa: Required Documents

When you apply, here’s what you’ll actually need to submit:

• Completed visa application form
• Proof of visa fee payment
• Valid passport (at least 6 months remaining)
• Recent passport-sized photo
• Proof of employment or business ownership (e.g. employment letter, company registration, freelance contracts)
• Proof of income for the last 6 months (payslips, invoices, contracts, bank statements)
• Health insurance valid for Estonia
• Criminal background check
• Proof of accommodation in Estonia

How To Apply for the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa

The application is straightforward, but it does require a bit of patience. Here’s how it works:

1. Start your application online

Visit Estonia’s official visa application portal, and select either a Type C (short stay) or Type D (long stay) visa.

2. Complete the application form

Enter your personal details, travel dates, accommodation address, and other required information.

4. Upload your documents

Attach all supporting documents, including proof of income, employment, insurance, etc.

5. Book an appointment

Schedule a visit at an Estonian embassy/consulate or a VFS Global center (depending on your country).

6. Attend your appointment

Go in person to submit biometrics, present original documents, and pay the visa fee.

7. Wait for processing

The decision typically takes up to 30 days. Once approved, you’ll collect your visa from the same location where you applied.

Estonia Digital Nomad Visa: Costs and Timeline

Visa fees vary slightly depending on where you apply, but here’s what you can expect:

• D Visa (long stay, up to 12 months): ~€100–120
• C Visa (short stay): ~€90

Processing typically takes up to 30 days, though timelines may vary by embassy or consulate.

Estonia Digital Nomad Visa: Pros and Cons

Living in Estonia as a Digital Nomad

Most digital nomads base themselves in Tallinn, and it’s easy to see why. The city is compact, walkable, and packed with cafés and coworking spaces. The international community is growing fast, and it’s one of those places where working from a laptop actually feels normal.

Estonia has real seasons with mild summers and seriously cold winters thanks to its proximity to Finland. With proper thermal layers, you’ll manage just fine, but expect snow and darkness in the colder months. Summer, on the other hand, is perfect for biking, outdoor cafés, and long daylight hours.

Infrastructure is one of Estonia’s strong points: fast internet, reliable public transport, digital-first services, and generally high quality of life.

It’s also a great base for exploring Europe. Tallinn is well connected, and short flights can take you anywhere, including Iceland, Norway, and just about any major European nomad hub when you need a change of scenery.

Taxes for Digital Nomads Living in Estonia

Estonia’s tax rules are fairly straightforward. If you spend 183 days or more within a 12-month period, you can become a tax resident. If you stay for less than that, you’re generally expected to continue paying taxes in your home country or current country of tax residence.

Estonia uses a flat personal income tax rate, and the country has agreements in place to avoid double taxation. However, taxation for digital nomads can get complicated, especially if you earn income from multiple countries, so it’s best to consult a tax professional about your specific situation.

Estonia Digital Nomad Visa: FAQs

Is Estonia good for digital nomads?

Yes. Estonia has excellent digital infrastructure, fast internet, lots of coworking spaces, and a visa that was literally designed for remote workers.

Can I stay longer than 12 months?

There’s no automatic renewal. Once your visa expires, you can apply for a new one, but it doesn’t convert into long-term residency.

Can I bring my partner or kids?

Yes, but they’ll need to apply separately under similar requirements. There is no automatic dependent visa, so plan ahead for timing and paperwork.

What if I lose my job or clients while I’m there?

The visa depends on you working for clients or employers based outside Estonia. If your situation changes, you should notify the authorities (embassy or Police and Border Guard Board) to avoid visa issues.

Can I work for Estonian companies while on this visa?

No. Local employment isn’t allowed under this program. If you want to work for Estonian employers, you’ll need a different type of permit.

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Written by Angelina Bertoni

After trying the conventional life, I packed everything into a backpack and started walking the world. I feel the energy of the spaces I explore — and that’s what I write about.

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