Working in Estonia for a foreigner

Application

What do I need to do to apply for a residence permit for employment in Estonia?

  1. Find a suitable job.
  2. Submit the required documents and pay the state fee.
  3. You shall receive an answer within 2 months and your residence card shall be issued within 30 days after approval.

Migration advisers will assist you every step of the way. Ask a migration adviser.

Where can I apply for a residence permit?

You can apply for a residence permit for employment:

How to apply at a foreign mission?

If you are residing abroad, apply for a visa to come to Estonia and start the residence permit application when arriving to Estonia. Find more info of Estonian foreign missions. For more information about the procedure for submitting the application, contact the respective foreign mission.

How to apply for a residence permit at the Police and Border Guard Board?

If you are residing in Estonia, you can submit the application for the residence permit at the service offices of the Police and Border Guard Board. To do so, make a reservation online.

Does the residence permit application need to be submitted in person?

The application must be submitted in person in order to have your fingerprints taken. Fingerprints shall not be taken if:

  • your fingerprints have already been taken less than 6 years ago, e.g., if you have applied for a residence permit before
  • you have been proven permanently incapable to provide fingerprints.

What documents are needed to apply for a residence permit for employment in Estonia?

In order to apply for a residence permit for employment in Estonia, you must submit:

The processor of the application may ask you to submit additional information or documents, if necessary.

Migration advisers will assist you every step of the way. Ask a migration adviser.