Estonia is a pioneer in digital innovation and the first country to offer both e-Residency and a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa. Known for its advanced e-governance, medieval Old Town in Tallinn, and startup-friendly environment, Estonia is ideal for tech-savvy remote workers seeking efficient bureaucracy, strong internet infrastructure, and access to the EU market.
6
Visa Types
186
Nationalities visa-free
🪪Your Passport:
Visa requirements vary by nationality
🎫 Available Visa Types
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Special Program
Digital Nomad Visa (Type D)
Long-stay visa for remote workers employed by foreign companies or freelancing for international clients. Valid for up to 12 months.
365 days
Duration
€100
$109 fee
+€700 additional
💰 Income Requirement
Minimum $4,500/per_month
Alternative: Bank statements showing savings equivalent to 6 months of minimum income requirement (approximately €27,000) may be considered.
✅ Key Benefits
✓Legal residence in Estonia for up to 12 months
✓Freedom to travel visa-free within the entire Schengen area
✓Access to Estonia's advanced digital infrastructure
✓Work legally for foreign employers or clients
✓Bring family members (separate applications required)
✓Access to coworking spaces and startup ecosystem
✓Pathway to explore e-Residency for business purposes
📋 Requirements (8)
•Valid passport (at least 3 months validity beyond intended stay)
•Completed and signed visa application form
•Proof of remote employment, freelance contracts, or business ownership abroad
•Bank statements showing minimum €4,500 gross monthly income for past 6 months
•Health insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage
•Criminal record certificate from country of residence
What is the difference between e-Residency and the Digital Nomad Visa?
E-Residency is a digital identity program that allows you to establish and manage an EU-based company remotely, but it does NOT give you the right to live or work in Estonia. The Digital Nomad Visa is an actual residence permit that allows you to physically stay in Estonia for up to 12 months while working remotely for foreign clients. Many digital nomads use both: e-Residency for running their business and the Digital Nomad Visa for living in Estonia.
Can I work remotely on a tourist visa in Estonia?
Technically, remote work is not permitted on a standard Schengen tourist visa. Estonia specifically created the Digital Nomad Visa to address this legal gray area. If you plan to work remotely while in Estonia, even for foreign employers, you should apply for the Digital Nomad Visa to ensure you are fully compliant with Estonian law.
What are the income requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa?
You must demonstrate a minimum gross monthly income of approximately €4,500 for the six months preceding your application. This can come from employment with a foreign company, freelance work for foreign clients, or revenue from your own business registered abroad. Bank statements and contracts are typically required as proof.
Can I bring my family with me on the Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes, you can bring your spouse and children to Estonia, but each family member must submit their own separate visa application with all required documents. The primary applicant must demonstrate sufficient income to support the family, with requirements increasing by approximately 50% for a spouse and 30% for each child.
Do I have to pay taxes in Estonia if I have a Digital Nomad Visa?
If you stay in Estonia for more than 183 days within a 12-month period, you become a tax resident and may be liable for Estonian income tax at a flat rate of 20%. However, Estonia has double taxation agreements with many countries. Non-residents working for foreign employers are generally not subject to Estonian taxes. Consult a tax advisor for your specific situation.
Can I open a bank account in Estonia as a digital nomad?
Opening a personal bank account in Estonia as a non-resident can be challenging. Banks require proof of a genuine connection to Estonia, such as a residence permit, employment contract, or rental agreement. E-Residency alone is not sufficient for personal accounts, though it can help with business accounts. LHV, Swedbank, and SEB are the main banks, with LHV being most accommodating to digital nomads and e-residents.
Can I extend my Digital Nomad Visa beyond 12 months?
No, the Estonian Digital Nomad Visa cannot be extended. After the 12-month validity expires, you must leave Estonia. You can reapply for a new Digital Nomad Visa after spending at least 6 months outside the country, but your total stay cannot exceed 548 days within any 730-day period. For longer-term residence, consider other visa categories such as employment or business visa.
Is health insurance mandatory for the Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes, health insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 is mandatory for the Digital Nomad Visa application. The insurance must cover medical expenses and repatriation for the duration of your stay. Popular options include SafetyWing, World Nomads, and local Estonian insurers. EU/EEA citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for emergency care.
How do I register my address in Estonia?
All residents, including Digital Nomad Visa holders, must register their address with the local municipality within 14 days of settling. This can be done in person at the city or rural municipality government office, or online through the e-Population Register if you have an Estonian digital ID. Your landlord may need to provide consent for the registration.
What happens when ETIAS is introduced?
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is expected to launch in late 2025 or early 2026. Once active, visa-exempt travelers from countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia will need to obtain ETIAS authorization online before traveling to the Schengen area, including Estonia. The authorization costs €7 and is valid for 3 years. This does not affect EU/EEA citizens or those applying for visas or residence permits.
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Important Disclaimer
Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 3, 2025