Startup Visa and Temporary Residence Permit for Entrepreneurship
Embassy required
- Processing time
- D visa: 15-30 working days; TRP: up to 2 months
- Fee
- EUR 160 (temporary residence permit) + EUR 100 (D visa if needed)
- Validity
- D visa for startup: up to 12 months; TRP for enterprise: up to 5 years, renewable
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Estonia offers a Startup Visa programme for entrepreneurs looking to establish or operate a startup in Estonia. The programme is managed by the Startup Estonia team (part of the Estonian Business and Innovation Agency). Applicants must receive a favourable evaluation from the Startup Committee confirming the business idea is innovative and scalable. The startup visa (D visa) allows up to 12 months to develop the startup. After that, entrepreneurs can apply for a temporary residence permit for enterprise/business. Estonia is also known for its e-Residency programme, which allows digital access to Estonian business services but does NOT grant the right to enter, reside in, or travel to Estonia. Separate from e-Residency, the TRP for enterprise requires demonstrating that the business benefits the Estonian economy and that the entrepreneur has sufficient funds.
Eligibility
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Nationality
Third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss) with an innovative startup idea.
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Employment
Must receive a favourable evaluation from the Estonian Startup Committee for the startup visa. For TRP for enterprise, must demonstrate the business benefits the Estonian economy.
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Financial
Must have sufficient personal funds for living expenses. For TRP for enterprise, company must have at least EUR 16,000 share capital or investment.
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Photo
Count: 2
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Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.
Must cover full stay: No
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash or card at embassy; Amount: EUR 160 (TRP) or EUR 100 (D visa)
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Business plan
Provide a business plan showing the activity, funding, market and expected costs.
Must include financials: No
How to apply
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Document gathering
Prepare business plan and apply for Startup Committee evaluation via startupestonia.ee. Gather passport, photos, financial proof, insurance, and accommodation documents.
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Online application
After receiving favourable Startup Committee evaluation, apply for D visa at Estonian embassy or TRP via PPA portal.
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Appointment booking
Book appointment at Estonian embassy or consulate.
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Fee payment
Pay D visa fee (EUR 100) or TRP fee (EUR 160).
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Document submission
Submit documents in person at embassy/consulate.
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Biometrics
Provide biometric data.
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Processing wait
D visa: 15-30 working days. TRP: up to 2 months.
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Visa collection
Collect passport with D visa sticker or receive TRP decision.