What Is a Residency Check?

The residency check is a periodic verification process carried out by the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board (PBGB) to ensure that all e-residents’ information remains valid and up to date.

Once you become an e-resident, you may occasionally receive an email asking you to confirm your personal details. This is a normal procedure that helps the Estonian authorities maintain the integrity and security of the e-Residency program.

During a residency check, you may be asked to:

• Confirm your current place of residence.
• Upload a recent photo of your passport or ID document.
• Provide additional information if your address or personal data has changed.

For most e-residents, this verification happens once a year, but in some cases (for example, if you have frequent international travel or changes of address), the check may be required every six months.

It’s important to complete this verification promptly when requested. If you don’t respond, your digital ID may be temporarily blocked or suspended until your data is updated.

How to Renew Your e-Residency Card

Your e-Residency card is valid for five years from the date of issue. To continue using it, you’ll need to renew it before it expires. The renewal process is very similar to the initial application, but simpler and faster.

To renew your card:

1. Check the expiration date printed on your e-Residency card. Try to start the renewal process 2–3 months before it expires.
2. Submit your renewal application online through the official e-Residency portal: [https://eresident.politsei.ee]().
3. Pay the renewal fee, which is the same as for a new application (around €100–€120, depending on your pickup location).
4. Choose a pickup point for your new card, usually the same embassy or collection center where you collected the first one.
5. Collect your new e-Residency kit in person once you receive the confirmation email.

When you collect your new card, bring your current e-Residency card and a valid photo ID for verification.

Your previous card will usually remain active until you receive the new one, but it’s best to complete the process early to avoid interruptions in access to Companio or other Estonian digital services.

Tips to Avoid Access Problems

• Renew early: Don’t wait until your card expires — renewal can take a few weeks.
• Keep your contact information updated: Make sure your email address and physical address are current in the e-Residency system, so you receive residency check notifications.
• Respond quickly to residency check emails: Delays in confirming your details may lead to temporary loss of access to Estonian government portals or your Companio account.
• Replace lost or damaged cards immediately: You can apply for a replacement card through the same official e-Residency portal.

Updated on: 29/10/2025