Residence permit for study

For foreign nationals

What is it?

A residence permit for study is a temporary residence permit issued by the Police and Border Guard Board for full-time study in recognised educational institutions in Estonia. The residence permit for study is issued for the entire period of study for the completion of a full-time study programme.

Useful information

Who needs it?

You need a residence permit for study in Estonia if:

  • you are not a citizen of a European Union Member State, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland,
  • your period of study lasts more than 1 year, and
  • you do not already hold an Estonian residence permit on other grounds.

A residence permit for study is suitable for:

  • pupils of primary, basic, and upper secondary schools,
  • vocational school students,
  • university students – at bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral level,
  • participants in preparatory courses,
  • trainees of educational institutions,
  • young people participating in voluntary service.

How to find the most suitable educational institution?

Information about Estonian higher education institutions and curricula can be found on the Study in Estonia website. Once you have chosen the most suitable curriculum, contact the school to obtain more information about admission requirements.

How to apply for a residence permit for study?

  1. Find a suitable Estonian school through the Study in Estonia website and pass the admission exams.
  2. Submit the required documents and pay the state fee.
  3. You will receive a response within 90 days, and the residence permit card will be issued within 30 days thereafter.

What are the requirements for a residence permit for study if you are a foreign national?

  • The school confirms that you are admitted to study there.
  • You have sufficient income (four times the subsistence level) to support yourself in Estonia, confirmed by signing the application. The subsistence level is established annually by the State Budget Act.
  • You have a health insurance contract, confirmed by signing the application. The requirements for health insurance are listed in § 120 of the Aliens Act (insurance cover).
  • After receiving the residence permit, you will settle in Estonia and register your place of residence in the Population Register.

How to maintain your residence permit for study?

A residence permit for study is issued for completing the curriculum on a full-time basis. To maintain your residence permit and successfully complete your studies, you must:

  • commence your studies on time,
  • complete the curriculum in full,
  • not interrupt your studies.

Is a residence permit for study also valid for employment in Estonia?

If you have been granted a residence permit for study, you may work alongside your studies provided that employment does not interfere with your studies and you continue your studies full-time.

The length of your study period depends on the level of education. A residence permit for study is issued for up to 5 years.

 

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