EU Blue Card - Estonia
Embassy required
- Processing time
- Up to 2 months; accelerated processing may be available for shortage occupations
- Fee
- EUR 160 (temporary residence permit) + EUR 100 (D visa if needed)
- Validity
- Valid for the duration of the employment contract plus 3 months, up to 4 years; renewable
- Entry
- Multiple entry
The EU Blue Card is available in Estonia for highly qualified third-country nationals. Applicants must hold a higher education qualification (university degree of at least 3 years) or demonstrate at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in certain fields. The salary must be at least 1.5 times the Estonian average gross annual salary (approximately EUR 2,850/month gross in 2026). For shortage occupations (including ICT professionals), the threshold may be lower at 1.2 times the average. Blue Card holders can move between EU member states after 12 months under certain conditions. The Blue Card is exempt from Estonia's annual immigration quota.
Eligibility
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Nationality
Third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss) with high qualifications.
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Employment
Must have an employment contract of at least 6 months with salary at least 1.5 times the Estonian average gross salary (or 1.2 times for shortage occupations). Must hold a university degree or have 5 years of relevant professional experience.
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Financial
Employment contract must meet minimum salary thresholds for the EU Blue Card.
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) + EUR 100 (D visa if needed)
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Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
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Academic transcript
Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.
Must be notarized: Yes; Must be translated: Yes
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Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
How to apply
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Document gathering
Obtain employment contract meeting Blue Card salary requirements. Gather passport, photos, degree certificates, CV, insurance, and accommodation proof.
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Online application
Submit TRP application via PPA e-service portal or at Estonian embassy.
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Appointment booking
Book appointment at Estonian embassy or consulate for identity verification.
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Fee payment
Pay TRP fee of EUR 160 and D visa fee of EUR 100 if applicable.
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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
Wait for processing, up to 2 months.
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Visa collection
Receive decision. If approved, D visa issued for initial entry. Collect EU Blue Card residence permit card after arrival in Estonia.