Family members temporary right of residence

Who is a family member of a citizen of the European Union?

You are considered a family member iff you are an alien who is not a citizen of the EU (except Estonia) and are an EU citizen’s:

• spouse
• child up to 21 years of age or dependant adult child, i.e. dependant child
• spouse’s child up to 21 years of age or dependant adult child, i.e. dependant child
• dependant parent or grandparent
• spouse’s dependant parent or grandparent
• dependant or member of household under a common household in the country of departure
• other dependant person or person who needs care by EU citizen.

What is the right of temporary stay for family member?

The right of temporary stay is the right to visit Estonia for a short term with visa or visafree status.

The right of temporary stay is for family members who have given in an application for a temporary right of residence until the decision is made on the application.

The right of temporary stay is also for family members after the expiration of their temporary right of residence for 90 days.

How can a family member obtain a visa?

You can obtain a visa as a family member, if:

• you have a valid travel document,
• prove that you are a family member of EU citizen and
• you are traveling with EU citizen or joining them in Estonia.

What additional rights European Union citizens family member has when staying in Estonia?

EU citizens family member who resides in Estonia based on a visa or a visa free status, is not allowed to work in Estonia.

Family member who has received a temporary or permanent right of residence has an unlimited right to work, engage in business or study.

What is the temporary right of residence?

The temporary right of residence gives you the right to reside in Estonia for up to 5 years.

For how long is the right of residence of an EU citizen’s family member valid?

If you are a family member of an EU citizen, your right of residence shall be valid for 5 years or until the expiry of the right of residence granted to the family member who is an EU citizen and resides in Estonia on the basis of the temporary right of residence.

What is a residence card?

A residence card is a document proving your right of residence in Estonia, which also serves as your identity card. The residence card contains your personal details, residence right details, photo and fingerprint images.