What's the Difference Between the Digital Nomad Visa and e-Residency Program of Estonia?

The Estonia Digital Nomad Visa allows entrepreneurs and remote workers to live and work in Estonia for an extended period, ranging from 6 to 12 months. Individuals do not need to have a company in Estonia.

On the other hand, the e-Residency program is a digital identity that enables people to establish online businesses in Estonia. It is not a travel or residency document.

The Digital Nomad Visa and the e-Residency program of Estonia cater to different needs:

Digital Nomad Visa

• Allows remote workers to reside and work in Estonia for a maximum of one year.
• Ideal for remote workers who do not have a company in Estonia and wish to stay in Estonia while working for a foreign company.
• Requires applying for the visa at an Estonian embassy.
• The application process takes at least 15 days.
• Does not provide citizenship or permanent residency in Estonia or the European Union.

e-Residency Program

• Provides a secure digital identity issued by the Estonian government, enabling entrepreneurs, startups, and remote-operating businesses to access Estonia's digital services. These services include opening and managing online businesses, filing taxes online, and accessing online banking services, all while reducing paperwork and bureaucracy.
• The application is done online, and the process takes 3 to 5 weeks.
• Does not grant citizenship, residency, or travel permission to Estonia or the European Union.
• There is no need to visit an embassy to obtain the digital identity; it is collected in person at one of the official pickup points.

Updated on: 25/01/2024