Applying for a residence permit

How long can a residence permit be extended for?

A residence permit may be extended for up to 10 years at a time. A residence permit card is valid for a maximum of 5 years. If the residence permit is valid for a longer period, a new residence permit card must be applied for in the meantime.

How to extend a residence permit?

1. Apply for an extension of your residence permit at least 2 months before the expiry of the current permit.
2. Submit the required documents and pay the state fee.
3. For an application submitted on time and with all the required documents, you will receive a decision no later than 10 days before the expiry of your current residence permit.

If you have provided fingerprints within the past 6 years and you hold a valid residence permit card, you may also apply for an extension by e-mail.

What documents are required when applying for an extension of a temporary residence permit?

When applying for an extension of a temporary residence permit, you need to provide:

• Completed application for extension of temporary residence permit
• Completed application form with details on close relatives and family members, and the required documents only if the information has changed
• Biographical data
• Additional form
• Identity document
• Documents certifying legal income (income during the six months preceding the application, showing at least the amount, regularity and sources of the income)
• Digital photo
• proof of payment of the state fee, such as a payment order.

The proceedings officer may request additional information or documents if necessary.

Additional documents

Any application for extension of a residence permit must, in addition, be accompanied by supporting documents relating to the purpose of the residence permit in order to confirm the continuation of that purpose. The proceedings officer may request additional information or documents if necessary.

Residence permit for employment

When applying for an extension of a temporary residence permit for employment, the employer or their authorised representative must submit an invitation by employer confirming the continuation of the foreign national’s employment.

Residence permit for study

When applying for an extension of a temporary residence permit for study, the educational institution must submit an invitation by an educational institution confirming the continuation of the studies.

Residence permit to settle with a spouse

When applying for an extension of a temporary residence permit for settling with a spouse, the spouse must provide an invitation by a spouse.

Residence permit for an adult child to settle with a parent

When applying for an extension of a temporary residence permit for an adult child to settle with a parent, the parent with whom the foreign national is applying to settle must provide an invitation by a parent.

Residence permit for a parent or grandparent to settle with a child or grandchild

When applying for an extension of a temporary residence permit for a parent or grandparent to settle with a child or grandchild in Estonia, an invitation by a child or grandchild must be submitted.

Residence permit for business

When applying for an extension of a temporary residence permit for business, you must also submit a business plan and a document proving the investment.

Residence permit for start-up business

When applying for an extension of a temporary residence permit for engaging in start-up business, the decision of the expert committee must still be valid.

Residence permit for large investors

When applying for an extension of a temporary residence permit as a major investor in Estonia, you must submit documents proving the investment.

How quickly is the extension of a residence permit decided?

A decision on the extension or refusal of a extension will be made no later than 10 days before the expiry of your current permit, if you submitted the application for extension at least 2 months before the expiry of the residence permit and you had submitted all the required documents.

A migration consultant is available to help you every step of the way. Seek advice from a migration consultant.