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startupPath to citizenship

Startup Visa

Temporary residence for non-EU founders building a scalable, tech-driven startup in Estonia.

Estimated Cost

$200

Processing Time

~2 months

Validity

12 months

Description

Estonia's Startup Visa provides a D-visa (up to 12 months) for non-EU founders whose startup concept is approved by the Startup Estonia Committee. The startup must be technology-based, scalable, and have at least an MVP. Founders must have minimum €800/month in personal funds. After initial approval, founders can upgrade to a Residence Permit for Entrepreneurship (up to 5 years), which leads to permanent residency and eventually citizenship.

Official informationLast updated: 2026-02-28

Timeline

Processing Time
1 months – 2 months

Average: 2 months

Visa Validity
1 year

Path to Residency

Path to Citizenship

~8 years

Eligibility

Age:18+Min Income:$873/yr

Requirements

Scalable tech-driven startup with MVP*

Startup must be technology-based, scalable, and have at least a minimum viable product.

Startup Estonia Committee approval*

Business concept must be approved by the Startup Estonia evaluation committee.

Minimum €800/month personal funds*

Must demonstrate sufficient personal financial means to support themselves during the visa period.

Valid passport*

Cost Breakdown

FeeAmountType
D-visa (long-stay, up to 12 months)$109One-time
Residence Permit for Entrepreneurship (if upgrading)(optional)$381One-time
Estimated Total$200