Working in Estonia for a foreigner

Process

When does the processing of the application begin?

The processing of the application shall begin when it is accepted into processing at the Police and Border Guard Board.

  • When submitting the application at an embassy, the processing of the application shall begin when the application arrives at the service office of the Police and Border Guard Board in Estonia.
  • If there are deficiencies in the application, the processing of the application shall begin once all deficiencies have been resolved.

Submit your residence permit application in good time.

How is the residence permit application processed?

The Police and Border Guard Board shall verify whether the necessary documents for application have been properly submitted and whether the conditions necessary for the issue of the residence permit are satisfied. If there are deficiencies in the application or if additional information is required, you will be contacted. If everything is in order, you will not be contacted.

How long does the issue of a residence permit take?

Processing the application may take up to 2 months. If the decision is positive, the residence card shall be issued within 30 days of making the decision. If you applied for the residence permit at a foreign mission of Estonia, please take into account the extra time required for delivery by mail.

What happens if the issue of the residence permit is refused?

If there are grounds for refusal to issue the residence permit, you will also be contacted. The processor of your application shall ask for your opinion and objections on the matter. Your position will be taken into account when deciding whether or not to issue the residence permit.
 

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