An identification document or ID-card is a mandatory identity document of the Estonian citizens and aliens staying/residing permanently in Estonia. In addition to regular identification of a person, an ID-card can also be used for establishing one’s person in electronic environment and for giving one’s digital signature. Within the European Union, an ID-card can be used by the Estonian citizens also as a travel document.

A residence card is a mandatory identity document of an alien who is residing permanently in Estonia on the basis of a valid residence permit or right of residence. In addition to regular identification of a person, a residence card can also be used for establishing one’s person in electronic environment and for giving one’s digital signature. NB! The identity cards issued to aliens earlier shall be valid until the expiry of their validity period.

Digital identification document or digi-ID is a digital document by means of which it is possible to establish one’s person in electronic environment and to give one’s digital signature. Holding of digi-ID is voluntary.

Passport of the Estonian citizen is foremost a travel document that is issued to the Estonian citizens for crossing the state border. Passport can also be used as identification document.

An alien’s passport is issued to an alien who holds valid permit of residence in Estonia and if it is established that the alien does not hold a travel document of a foreign country.

Certificates of record of service on Estonian ships and seaman's discharge books are issued to seafarers. The documents respond to requirements of the “Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention” of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).  

Travel document for refugee is a travel document that is issued to a refugee for crossing the state border.

Temporary travel document is issued to an alien staying in Estonia for single departure from Estonia and for return to Estonia.

More detailed information related to application and issuing of documents can be found in the rights-side menu of the page.