Home > An Essential Guide to Estonia Long Stay Visas

An Essential Guide to Estonia Long Stay Visas

Estonia is an incredible country in Northern Europe. Its extensive coastline, old world architecture, and amazing food are among a few of the reasons why Estonia is growing in popularity.

If you are planning to stay in Estonia for several months, it's not uncommon to have questions about what you need to do to get there. From whether or not you need a visa, to which types Estonia offers, and how to get one. There are a lot of stones to turn over.

In this article, we will cover it all, giving you important information that will help you head to Estonia with confidence. Learn whether or not you need a visa, which type might make sense for you, whether or not you meet the application requirements, and ultimately, how to apply.

While the process can seem a bit daunting, don't worry. It's relatively straightforward, and with the right information, you'll be ready to take the next step on your journey to Estonia.

Do I need a long stay visa for Estonia?

Many travelers need a long stay visa when spending multiple months in Estonia. If you are NOT an EU/Schengen country citizen AND plan to spend more than 90 days in Estonia, you likely need a long stay visa.

Long stay visas in Estonia allow visitors to stay up to one year (365 days), though it is possible in some cases to get two consecutive long stay visas. In that case, you can stay up to 548 days within a 730 consecutive-day period.

While generally anyone can apply for an Estonian long stay visa, there are eligibility requirements that you need to be aware of.

Am I eligible for an Estonian long stay visa?

To get an Estonian long stay visa, there are some general requirements that the Estonian government has.

First, you must be able to meet the minimum funds requirement. When you apply for your visa (we will talk about how in a bit), you will need to prove that you can financially provide for yourself for your entire stay in Estonia.

Depending on the type of long stay visa you're applying for, there are different monthly minimums. For example, in 2025, students must prove they have 800 euros per month. Digital nomads must prove 4500 per month. Since these numbers can change, you should always get them from the Estonian Embassy's official site.

In addition to the financial requirements, there are a number of documents you will need to provide when you apply for your visa.

Only the Estonian Embassy/Consulate can decide whether or not a visa application is approved or denied. Having a strong visa application is important

What are the long stay visa requirements for Estonia?

When you apply for your visa, it's mandatory to bring a number of documents with you. These documents outline the purpose of your extended stay in Estonia and show that you can provide for yourself while you are there.

In order to apply for an Estonian long stay visa, you will need to be able to provide:

An official passport/travel document that was issued within the past 10 years and has at least 2 blank pages remaining. It also needs to remain valid 3 months beyond your trip to Estonia.
A recent passport-sized photograph in color.
Proof of travel medical insurance. This insurance must cover you for emergency medical costs in Estonia.
Proof of financial means (as mentioned above).
Documents about the purpose of your stay. These documents will vary based on which Estonian visa you are applying for. We will break down those requirements by visa in the next section.
Biometric data (10 fingerprints) which will be collected at your in-person visa appointment.
Proof of visa fee payment.

Specific requirements by visa

Each long stay visa for Estonia requires the documents listed above, as well as additional supporting documents.

Estonian long stay visas for studying abroad

Required documents include:

Proof of admission (that the university/program has offered you enrollment).
For students in a program (such as Erasmus), you also need to show confirmation from the program's local coordinator.

Estonian long stay visas for visiting family

To visit your family in Estonia for more than 90 days, you'll need to provide the required documents above, as well as:

Document(s) proving how you're related to your family member. Examples of this are birth certificates or marriage licenses.
If the visa applicant is a disabled adult who needs support, you must provide documentation that proves their health status.

Estonian long stay visa for short term employment

If you're going to be working in Estonia for a number of months, you'll need this additional document when you apply for your visa.

A printout of the registration confirmation of your short-term employment.

Estonian long stay digital nomad visa

If you're planning to stay in Estonia to live the digital nomad life, there are a number of documents you'll need in addition to the basic requirements listed above.

Proof that you can work remotely anywhere/in Estonia.
Documents that show your employer is registered somewhere other than Estonia.
Proof of work relationship (a contract, for example).
Proof that you will be providing services for people outside of Estonia.
Proof of income that meets the minimum financial requirements.
A resume/CV that describes your job history and what you do.

How to apply for an Estonia long stay visa

The application process is typically as follows:

Find out which visa you need.
Make sure you meet the minimum visa application requirements.
Begin collecting the necessary documentation. You will need physical copies of everything (including originals). The Estonian Embassy/Consulate or visa application center will give you a list of exactly which documents you need. This is the list you should go off of, as it's the most up-to-date and accurate.
Book an in-person visa appointment at an Estonian Consulate/visa application center in your country of residence.
Attend your appointment, bringing all of the documents with you in the formats requested. At this appointment, a visa officer will look over your file to make sure all of the required documents are present.
Submit your biometrics (fingerprints) at the visa appointment and your visa application.
Wait for an answer!