Employer-sponsored residence permit for non-EU nationals to work long-term in Estonia.
Estimated Cost
$410
Processing Time
~3 months
Validity
60 months
The Residence Permit for Employment is the primary route for third-country nationals with a job offer from an Estonian-registered employer. The employer must obtain a recruitment permit from the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund (Töötukassa). Permit holders must earn at least the legally required minimum salary for their occupational category. After 5 years on a temporary permit, applicants may apply for permanent residency, and after a total of 8 years may apply for citizenship.
Average: 3 months
Path to Residency
Path to Citizenship
~8 years
Job offer from Estonian employer*
Employer must be registered in Estonia's Business Register.
Employer recruitment permit (Töötukassa)*
Employer must obtain a recruitment permit from the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund before the foreign national can apply.
Minimum salary threshold (~€1,585+/month)*
Salary must meet the minimum for the occupational category; specialist roles require significantly higher pay.
Valid passport*
| Fee | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| State fee (applied in Estonia) | $272 | One-time |
| D-visa (entry before permit) | $109 | One-time |
| Estimated Total | $410 |