Permanent Residence in Estonia

Written by Luis Minvielle Moderated by Oleksandra Dosii

Luis Minvielle

Luis is a writer with over 5 years of experience in B2B software. Even though he has always worked in tech, a sector he regularly publishes about, his initial incursions into writing were, curiously enough, music essays discussing scenes from different parts of the world—most likely to deal with his unfulfilled ambition of becoming a neo-soul crooner.

Oleksandra Dosii

Oleksandra is a dedicated marketer with a passion for growing HR-tech products. She believes content marketing is about delivering high-quality content that provides value—not just generating leads. Since 2016, Oleksandra has been involved in tech talent relocation.

Last update: September 15, 2024

Next update: Scheduled for February 1, 2025

You need to have lived in Estonia for at least five years to get a permanent residence permit. Also, you must have a temporary residence permit when you apply and your place of residence should be listed on the Estonian Population Register.

This article provides a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about securing a permanent residence permit in Estonia.

What is an Estonian permanent residence permit?

An Estonian Permanent Residence Permit, formally known as the residence permit for long-term residents, grants you the right to settle permanently in Estonia. Unlike temporary residence permits, which are valid for up to ten years, this permit doesn’t expire and acts as a stable legal status for non-EU citizens.

What are the benefits of an Estonian permanent residence permit?

First of all, as a permanent resident, you gain access to Estonia's social security system. Whether you are facing unemployment or financial hardship, you can claim various means-tested benefits, including subsistence benefits and unemployment allowances (if you’re actually expecting UBI to happen, Estonia is a clear candidate for a trial).

One of the most useful aspects of holding a permanent residence permit is the possibility to work in Estonia without needing a further work permit. But the most important benefit is that it’s a pathway to citizenship.

When can you apply for an Estonian permanent residence permit?

To apply for an Estonian permanent residence permit, you need to have lived continuously in Estonia for at least five years on a temporary residence permit. Additionally, you must have a valid temporary residence permit at the time of application, and your place of residence should be registered in the Estonian Population Register.

Keep in mind that one of the key conditions is having a permanent and legal income that supports your subsistence in Estonia. You are also required to have health insurance coverage from the Estonian Health Insurance Fund, which gives you access to medical care.

Another important requirement is meeting the integration criteria, which includes demonstrating proficiency in the Estonian language at least at the B1 level. This language requirement can be carried out by passing an exam or through proof of education in the Estonian language.

Immigration quota considerations

When applying for a residence permit in Estonia, it’s important to know about the immigration quota. This quota limits the number of foreign nationals who can receive a residence permit each year to 0.1% of Estonia's resident population. For your reference, that meant slightly more than 1,300 jobseekers in 2023.

Still, not all applicants are subject to this immigration quota. Exemptions include citizens of the United States or Japan, as well as those applying for residence permits for specific purposes such as scientific or research work, employment in the IT sector, work in a start-up or with start-ups, or as a majority investor or top specialist. Additionally, family members of existing residents and those applying for residence permits to study are also exempt from the quota.

What documents are required to apply for an Estonian permanent residence permit?

First, you will need your identity document, such as a passport. You will also need to provide a digital photo that meets specific requirements, as well as proof of payment for the state fee that must be included in your application.

In some cases, the Police and Border Guard Board may request additional documents or information to support your application. This could include evidence of your legal income, proof of health insurance, or documents that verify your place of residence in Estonia.

How to apply for permanent residency in Estonia?

You can submit your application in person at the service offices of the Police and Border Guard Board or, if applicable, digitally signed by email.

If you plan to visit in person, schedule an appointment online before. During your visit, your fingerprints will be taken unless they have been taken in the past six years—or you are exempt because of permanent incapacity.

Once your application is submitted, the Police and Border Guard Board will begin processing it. If there are any issues with your application, they will contact you to fix them.

How long does it take to get a residency card in Estonia?

The processing time for your application can take up to two months, and if approved, your residence card will be issued within 30 days. You can then collect your residence card in person at the service office or a designated foreign mission of Estonia, depending on your choice during the application.

Can your family members get permanent residency?

Yes, your family members can join you in Estonia and obtain permanent residency, but the process depends on their relationship to you and their current residency status.

If you’re living in Estonia with a temporary or permanent residence permit, your close family members—like your spouse, dependent children, and other immediate relatives—can apply for a residence permit to live with you. They’ll start with a temporary residence permit, which can be renewed over time. After living in Estonia for five years, they can apply for a permanent residence permit, just like you.

To be eligible for permanent residency, your family members need to meet a few key requirements. They should have a registered place of residence in Estonia, a stable income to support themselves, and health insurance. Like you, they’ll also need to demonstrate basic proficiency in Estonian, typically at the B1 level.

Good news for families: when your family members apply as dependents, they won’t be counted towards Estonia’s immigration quota, which can make the process a bit smoother.

If your family members are from the EU, the process is even simpler. They don’t need a residence permit but should register their right of residence in Estonia. After five years, they can gain a permanent right of residence, which comes with similar benefits to a permanent residence permit.

What are Estonian permanent residence permit fees?

The fees vary depending on the specific type of application. For a long-term resident's residence permit, the fee is €64 for adults. If you’re applying for a child under the age of 15, the fee is reduced to €24. Similarly, for those who have reached retirement age and are applying under general conditions, the fee is also €24.

If you need to reinstate a long-term resident’s residence permit, the same fees apply: €64 for adults, €24 for children under 15, and €24 for retirees.

EU citizens applying for a permanent right of residence will need to pay a fee of €25 and €31 for their family members’ permanent right of residence.

What if your application is rejected?

If your application is turned down, you will be notified and provided an opportunity to submit additional information or address any issues you may have. Estonia is an English-friendly language and their digital information bank is very complete. But you could be better off by handling the whole process along with immigration and relocation experts.

Talk to an immigration expert

If you're ready to make Estonia your long-term home, having the right support can make the process a little easier and more streamlined. Working with relocation experts can make it easier to get a permanent residence permit.

Platforms like Relocate.me are designed to assist with all aspects of relocating. With a great deal of resources and connections to employers across Estonia, the site can help you find the perfect opportunity to start your new chapter. Explore the job board, check the expat stories, or get in touch so we can connect you with relocation experts. 

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