Complete Guide To Estonia Digital Nomad Visa Application

Introduction to Estonia Digital Nomad Visa:

The Estonia Digital Nomad Visa is a relatively new visa category that was introduced by the Estonian government in 2020. It offers an opportunity for non-EU citizens to live and work remotely in Estonia for up to 12 months, making it an attractive option for digital nomads and location-independent entrepreneurs.

The Estonia Digital Nomad Visa allows individuals to experience the unique culture, stunning landscapes, and high-tech infrastructure of Estonia while maintaining their remote work lifestyle.

Application Process:

The application process for the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa is simple and straightforward. The first step is to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria, which includes being a non-EU citizen, working for a company registered outside of Estonia, having location-independent work that can be done remotely, having sufficient funds to support yourself while living in Estonia, and having valid health insurance.

Once you have confirmed your eligibility, you will need to gather the necessary documents, including a valid passport, a passport-sized photo, proof of health insurance, proof of sufficient funds, a digital copy of your employment contract or a letter from your employer stating that you are employed and can work remotely, and a completed application form.

After you have collected all the necessary documents, you can submit your application online through the Estonian E-Residency  website. You will need to pay a processing fee of €100 when you submit your application. Once you have submitted your application, you will need to wait for a decision, which usually takes up to 30 days.

If your application is approved, you will need to collect your visa from an Estonian embassy or consulate. You will need to present your passport and pay a visa fee of €80.

Data Findings:

According to the official statistics of the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board, there were a total of 568 Estonia Digital Nomad Visa applications received between August 2020 and March 2022. Out of these applications, 556 were approved, 10 were rejected, and 2 were withdrawn. The majority of the applicants were from the United States, followed by Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

The table below provides a breakdown of the number of applications received from each country:

Benefits of the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa:

1. High Quality of Life: Estonia is known for its high standard of living, clean environment, and modern infrastructure.
2. Easy access to the rest of Europe: Estonia is located in Northern Europe and is only a short flight away from other major European cities, making it an excellent base for traveling and exploring.
3. Tech-Savvy Environment: Estonia is a highly innovative country that is at the forefront of digital technology, making it an ideal location for digital nomads who require a fast and reliable internet connection.
4. Friendly Business Environment: Estonia is known for its friendly and supportive business environment, making it an excellent location for entrepreneurs and startups.
5. Affordable Cost of Living: Estonia has a relatively low cost of living compared to other European countries, making it an attractive option for digital nomads who are looking for a cost-effective place to live.

Tips for a successful Estonia Digital Nomad Visa application:

1. Plan ahead: Make sure to give yourself enough time to gather all the necessary documents and complete the application process. The processing time can take up to 30 days, so plan accordingly.
2. Be prepared to show proof of sufficient funds: The Estonian government requires digital nomads to have a minimum of €3500 in their bank account to cover their living expenses while in Estonia.
3. Ensure that your health insurance is valid in Estonia: Make sure to check with your health insurance provider that your policy is valid in Estonia.
4. Double-check your application form for accuracy: Make sure that all information on your application form is accurate and up-to-date to avoid delays in processing your application.
5. Seek professional assistance if necessary: If you are unsure about any aspect of the application process, seek professional assistance from a visa agency or immigration lawyer to ensure that your application is successful.

Eligibility Criteria:

To be eligible for the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Must be a non-European Union citizen
2. Must be a remote worker or self-employed individual who can work from anywhere in the world
3. Must be able to support themselves financially during their stay in Estonia
4. Must have valid health insurance that covers Estonia
5. Must not be considered a threat to national security or public health

Application Process:

The application process for the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa is relatively simple and can be completed online. The following is a step-by-step guide on how to apply:

Step 1: Gather all required documents The following documents are required for the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa application:

1. Passport with at least six months of validity remaining
2. Proof of health insurance that is valid in Estonia
3. Proof of accommodation in Estonia
4. Bank statement or other proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay in Estonia
5. Criminal record certificate

Step 2: Fill out the online application form .The online application form is available on the Estonian E-residency website . Make sure to fill out the form accurately and completely, as any errors or omissions can delay the processing of your application.

Step 3: Pay the application fee The application fee for the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa is €80. The fee can be paid online via credit card.

Step 4: Submit the application Once you have filled out the application form and paid the fee, you can submit your application. The processing time for the visa can take up to 30 days, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Step 5: Receive your visa If your application is approved, you will receive your visa via email. Print out a copy of your visa and carry it with you when you travel to Estonia.

Cost of Living:

Estonia is known for its relatively low cost of living compared to other European countries. According to Numbeo, the cost of living index in Estonia is 47.41, which is lower than the European average of 57.64. Some examples of the cost of living in Estonia are:

1. Accommodation: A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €500-€700 per month, while a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center costs around €300-€500 per month.
2. Transportation: A monthly public transportation pass costs around €30-€50, while a one-way ticket on public transportation costs around €1-€2.
3. Food: A basic lunch in a restaurant costs around €8-€10, while a meal for two in a mid-range restaurant costs around €35-€45.
4. Internet: The average monthly cost of internet is around €20-€25.

Data Findings:

According to a survey conducted by the Estonian Investment Agency in 2020, digital nomads who have relocated to Estonia have reported high levels of satisfaction with their experience. The survey found that:

1. 94% of digital nomads were satisfied with their decision to relocate to Estonia
2. 92% of digital nomads were satisfied with the quality of life in Estonia
3. 85% of digital nomads were satisfied with the local business environment
4. 85% of digital nomads were satisfied with the cost of living in Estonia
5. 79% of digital nomads were satisfied with the infrastructure in Estonia, including the availability of high-speed internet