A Simple Guide to Getting an Estonia Visit Visa
Estonia is a beautiful country in Northern Europe, part of the Schengen Area. This means that its visa rules follow common Schengen regulations. If you’re planning a visit to Estonia, here’s everything you need to know about applying for a visa.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Estonia?
| If You Are | Do You Need a Visa? |
|---|---|
| An EU/EEA/Swiss citizen | No |
| From a visa-free country (e.g., USA, UK, Canada) | No, for up to 90 days within 180 days |
| From a non-EU/EEA/Swiss country without a visa-free agreement | Yes |
Types of Estonia Visas
| Visa Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Schengen Visa | For short visits and tourism. Valid for 90 days within 180 days. Allows travel to other Schengen countries. |
| Transit Visa | For passengers transiting through Estonian airports. |
| Work Visa | For employment. Requires employer registration with Estonian authorities. |
| Student Visa | For studying. Apply after being accepted into an Estonian educational institution. |
| Family Visa | To join family members or partners. Allows work and study. |
| Investment Visa | For investing in a business. |
| Digital Nomad Visa | For freelancers working remotely. |
| EU Blue Card | For skilled workers seeking jobs in Estonia. |
Schengen Visa vs. Long-Term Visa
| Feature | Schengen Visa | Long-Term Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 90 days | 365 days (1 year) |
| Purpose | Short visits, tourism | Work, study, business, family reunion |
| Residence Permit | Not possible | Possible and extendable |
Required Documents for an Estonian Visa
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | At least three months beyond return date, with two blank pages. |
| Application Form | Fill out online, print, and sign. |
| Passport Photos | Two recent photos with a bright background. |
| Medical Insurance | Coverage of at least €30,000 in Estonia and Schengen. |
| Cover Letter | Explains your visit purpose, flight details, and return date. |
| Proof of Accommodation | Documentation showing where you’ll stay. |
| Civil Status Documents | Marriage certificate, child’s birth certificate, etc. |
| Bank Statement | Proof of at least €100 per day of stay. |
| Biometric Data | Fingerprints. |
How to Apply for an Estonian Visa
- Book an Appointment: Contact the Estonian consulate or embassy.
- Complete the Application: Fill out and sign the form online, then submit with your documents.
- Pay the Fee: Visa fees vary by type and nationality. Attach the payment receipt.
- Submit Documents: Provide all required documents, translated into Estonian or English.
- Wait for a Response: You’ll receive your visa result via email or SMS.
Visa Processing Time
Processing usually takes 15 to 60 days. Make sure all documents are complete to avoid delays.
What If My Visa Application Is Refused?
If refused, you can:
- Reapply: Submit a new application.
- Apply for a Schengen Visa: Use a visa from another Schengen country.
- Appeal: Appeal the decision within 30 days. A €20 fee applies.
How Long Can I Stay in Estonia?
Depending on the visa type:
- Short-Stay Visa: Up to 90 days.
- Long-Stay Visa: Up to one year.
Extending Your Stay
To stay longer:
- Short-Stay Visa: Extensions are rare and granted under specific conditions.
- Long-Stay Visa: Apply for an extension or switch to a residence permit.
Visa Fees
| Visa Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Short-Stay Visa | €90 |
| Long-Stay Visa | €100 |
| Transit Visa | €80 |
| Schengen Visa for Children | €45 |
Attach the payment receipt with your application.
By following this guide, you’ll be prepared to apply for your Estonian visit visa and enjoy your trip to this wonderful country!