Visa, work permit & immigration support in Estonia
Estonia is an attractive destination for businesses looking to expand their operations globally. However, hiring and managing a workforce in a foreign country comes with its own challenges, especially regarding immigration regulations. A Global Employer of Record (EOR) can help companies navigate the complex immigration requirements in Estonia and provide expert support throughout the process.
Global Mobility Made Easy with a Global Employer of Record in Estonia
Estonia has strict immigration regulations and requirements that companies must comply with to hire foreign workers. These regulations can be complex and time-consuming, and ensuring that all applications and documents are completed accurately and submitted on time is essential. Failure to do so can result in costly mistakes and rejections.
However, a Global EOR can help simplify the process by providing expert guidance and support throughout the entire immigration process. They have a team of experienced professionals who understand the intricacies of Estonia’s immigration regulations and can help companies navigate the requirements smoothly and efficiently.
Avoiding Costly Mistakes and Rejections
Immigration applications can be rejected for various reasons, including incomplete or inaccurate information, missing documents, or not meeting the necessary criteria. These rejections can be costly for businesses, not only in terms of finances but also in terms of time and effort.
A Global EOR can help businesses avoid costly mistakes and rejections by ensuring that all applications are complete, accurate, and submitted on time. They have an in-depth knowledge of Estonia’s immigration regulations and can help businesses meet all the necessary criteria.
Keeping Up with Changing Immigration Laws and Policies
Immigration laws and policies in Estonia are subject to change, and it can be challenging for companies to keep up with the latest developments. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in severe consequences, including fines, penalties, and legal action.
A Global EOR can help businesses stay updated with immigration laws and policies. They have a team of professionals who stay informed about any changes and ensure that all applications and processes comply with the latest regulations.
Streamlined and Efficient Process, Saving Time, Cost, and Effort
The immigration process in Estonia can be time-consuming and tedious, taking up valuable resources that could be better spent on core business activities. A Global EOR can help streamline the process, saving time and effort for businesses.
Our well-established Global Mobility services involves collecting all the necessary information, completing the necessary paperwork, and submitting applications on time. This process is efficient and streamlined, ensuring businesses can focus on their core activities while the Global EOR handles the immigration process.
Simplified Management of Foreign Talent, Leaving You to Focus on Core Business Objectives
Managing an international workforce can be challenging, especially when it comes to complying with immigration regulations. A Global EOR can simplify this process by managing foreign talent for businesses. This includes handling all immigration-related paperwork, ensuring compliance with regulations, and providing ongoing support and guidance to foreign workers.
Acumen International can handle various kinds of relocation operations, including international assignments for different types of expatriates in Estonia. We will relieve you from the burdensome of hiring expatriate staff there, and help you take the first steps in international development fast with no risk. Our work permit and immigration support solution turns a bothering immigration procedure into a serviceable solution that can be tailored to the specific needs of your global mobility program.
Learn more about the timelines and requirements for getting a work permit in Estonia below.
Estimated Time for Securing a Work Permit
The procedure of work permit issuance in Estonia takes about 2-4 weeks.
Major steps to get a work permit in Estonia
- For EU citizens who want to work in Estonia for more than three months, it is necessary to register as an Estonian resident in the Population Register of Estonia within the first three months of your stay.
- For non-EU countries, residents who’d like to work in Estonia for up to 6 months a year, should obtain a D-visa. Before applying, the employer has to register your short-term employment with the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board. During the application submission, the applicant’s biometrics will be collected.
Documents for a D-visa in Estonia (working up to 6 months a year)
| Type of documents |
| A travel Passport or ID, issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least three months past the intended expiration date of the visa, with a minimum of two blank pages. |
| A complete and signed D-visa application form (obtained from official sources, preferably online). |
| A recent standard color photo (35×45 mm) that meets ICAO requirements. |
| A valid travel medical insurance policy that covers the entire duration of the intended stay in Estonia, with a minimum coverage of €30,000. |
| For short-term employment: An employment contract or confirmation from the employer and confirmation of the registration of short-term employment.Individuals will typically need to apply for a temporary residence permit for long-term employment, particularly beyond the 365-day limit of a D-visa. This is a crucial step after arriving in Estonia with a D-visa. |
| Visa fee of €80 |
When considering long-term employment in Estonia and the associated D-visa, it’s important to understand the nuances that differentiate it from short-term employment. Here’s a breakdown:
Key Differences and Requirements for Long-Term Employment in Estonia
Temporary Residence Permit
Individuals will typically need to apply for a temporary residence permit for long-term employment, particularly beyond the 365-day limit of a D-visa. This is a crucial step after arriving in Estonia with a D-visa.
Employment Contract
A detailed and valid employment contract is essential. This contract will be a key document in both the D-visa and the temporary residence permit applications.
Employer’s Obligations
The employer in Estonia plays a significant role. They may need to provide documentation and support the employee’s application. The employer must also ensure that it is legally authorised to hire foreign workers.
Proof of Qualifications
Proof of qualifications and professional experience are often required for long-term employment, especially in skilled positions. This may include diplomas, certifications, and work history documents.
Financial Stability
It is paramount to demonstrate sufficient financial means to support oneself during the stay. This may involve providing bank statements or other financial documents.
Registration
While short-term employment requires registration, long-term employment involves the employer gaining a temporary residence permit, which is more involved than short-term registration.
Health Insurance
Adequate health insurance coverage is mandatory. Individuals may eventually be covered by the Estonian Health Insurance Fund (Haigekassa) for long-term stays, but they must have valid insurance until that coverage begins.
Documents for a residence permit in Estonia (working longer than 6 months)
If you need to have your expat personnel legally work for you in Estonia without setting up your own business entity for that, trust us to assist you with work permits and immigration support and then employ your expats locally on your behalf.
Contact us for more details on how you can get a work permit for your expatriate staff and employ them through Acumen International in Estonia.