Who Needs a Visa or Residence Permit?

EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens

• No Visa Required: Citizens from EU/EEA countries and Switzerland do not need a visa for studies lasting up to 90 days.
• Residency Registration: For stays longer than 90 days, registration of residence in Estonia is mandatory, and students must apply for an Estonian ID card within three months of arrival.

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens

• Visa/Permit Requirement: Students from non-EU countries must apply for an Estonian study visa or residence permit, with different types based on the duration of study.

Types of Student Permits

Important Note: Students admitted to studies longer than one year must travel to Estonia with a D-visa initially and apply for a temporary residence permit (TRP) upon arrival.

Key Steps for Non-EU Students

1. Receive Acceptance: Formal admission to an Estonian university is required. The university will provide the necessary acceptance documents for the visa application.
2. Apply for a Long-Term (D) Visa:
   • Appointment: Schedule an appointment at the nearest Estonian embassy or consulate.
   • Application Submission: Submit the visa application form along with supporting documents in person. Visa processing times usually range from 10 to 30 days.
3. Enter Estonia: Upon successful application, students can enter Estonia using their D-visa.
4. Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (if studies exceed 1 year): After arrival, students must book an appointment at a Police and Border Guard Board service office to submit their TRP application. The decision on the residence permit is usually made within two months.
5. Register Place of Residence: Students must register their address in the Population Register within one month of receiving their residence permit.

Document Checklist

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond planned stay.
• Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent photographs.
• Application Form: Completed and signed.
• Visa Processing Fee Payment: Usually around €100.
• Letter of Acceptance: Official document from the Estonian university.
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or scholarship confirmation to demonstrate financial capacity.
• Accommodation Proof: Evidence of accommodations—university housing or rental agreements.
• Health Insurance: Must cover the Schengen area for the duration of studies.
• Criminal Record Certificate: From the home country.
• Translations: Supporting documents may require translation to English or Estonian as needed.

Note: Requirements may vary slightly, so it is advisable to check with the specific university and embassy for the latest updates.

Special Considerations for Family Members

• Children: If a student holds a TRP, their child may apply for a temporary residence permit.
• Spouse: The spouse of a student can apply for a TRP only after the student has lived in Estonia on a TRP for at least two years.

Working While Studying

With a residence permit for studies, students can work in Estonia without needing separate permission. However, they should ensure that their work does not interfere with their academic progress.

Key Contacts and Support

• Estonian Police and Border Guard Board: The main authority regarding residence permit matters.
• University International Office: Essential for guidance and support throughout the application process.
• Migration Advisors: These advisors offer free legal and practical advice in Estonian, English, or Russian, available via phone, email, Skype, or in-person consultations in major cities.

Processing Times

• D-visa: 10–30 calendar days.
• Temporary Residence Permit: Up to 2 months after application submission.

Summary Table

For more information and step-by-step guidance, we encourage you to consult your university’s international office or connect with the Study in Estonia support team. Our platform provides a comprehensive resource for international students embarking on their Estonian education journey, ensuring clarity on navigating your student visa process.

Take the Next Step with Study in Estonia

Explore further opportunities and resources tailored for your needs in international education.