1. What is the current visa policy for traveling to Estonia?
As of October 2021, the current visa policy for traveling to Estonia is as follows:
1. Citizens of EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, and the UK do not need a visa to enter Estonia for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
2. Non-EU/EEA citizens from countries that have a visa-free agreement with Estonia (such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand) can also enter without a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
3. Nationals of some non-EU/EEA countries are required to obtain a Schengen visa before traveling to Estonia. These include individuals from Russia, China, India, and Ukraine.
4. Citizens of certain non-EU/EEA countries may enter Estonia without a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period for specific purposes such as business or tourism. This applies to passport holders from Brazil, Argentina, Panama, Paraguay, Uruguay,Costa Rica and the Bahamas among others.
5. Some nationalities are required to obtain an Estonian national visa before travel regardless of their country’s visa-free status.
6. Estonia also offers e-visas for travelers who require a Schengen visa but intend to visit only Estonia on their trip.
It is always best to check with the nearest Estonian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements before traveling.
2. Do I need a visa to enter Estonia as a tourist?
If you are a citizen of the European Union, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, you do not need a visa to enter Estonia as a tourist. You are allowed to stay in Estonia for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, if you plan on staying longer than 90 days or traveling for purposes other than tourism, you may need to obtain a visa.
If you are a citizen of a country outside of the European Union and do not hold a Schengen visa, you will need to apply for a tourist visa before traveling to Estonia. The visa application process may vary depending on your country of citizenship. It is recommended to check with the nearest Estonian embassy or consulate for specific requirements and procedures.
3. How long does it take to get a tourist visa for Estonia?
The processing time for an Estonian tourist visa can vary depending on your country of citizenship and the volume of applications at the time of submission. Generally, it can take between 15-60 days from the date of application to receive a decision on your visa application.
It is recommended to apply for your tourist visa well in advance of your intended travel dates to allow enough time for processing and potential delays.
4. What documents do I need to apply for an Estonian tourist visa?
The specific documents required for an Estonian tourist visa may vary depending on your country of citizenship and individual circumstances. However, some common required documents include:
– A fully completed and signed visa application form
– Passport with at least two blank pages and at least 3 months validity beyond the duration of the planned trip
– Dos fotografías recientes tamaño pasaporte.
– Proof of sufficient funds to cover expenses during your stay in Estonia (e.g. bank statements)
– Proof of travel insurance with coverage that meets the minimum requirements set by Estonia
– Flight itinerary or reservation
– Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation arrangements in Estonia
– Travel itinerary and planned activities in Estonia
– If you are being sponsored by someone, proof of their financial means and a letter of invitation from them may be required
– A valid Schengen visa, if applicable
– Other supporting documents as requested by the embassy or consulate.
It is important to note that these are general requirements and may vary based on your specific situation. It is recommended to check with the nearest Estonian embassy or consulate for a more comprehensive list of required documents.
5. How much does an Estonian tourist visa cost?
The cost of an Estonian tourist visa can vary depending on your country of citizenship and individual circumstances. Generally, the fee for a short-stay Schengen visa, which covers visits up to 90 days, is 80 euros.
However, certain categories of travelers may be eligible for reduced or waived fees. For example, children under 6 years old are exempt from visa fees, while children between 6 – 11 years old pay a reduced fee of 40 euros. You may also be eligible for fee exemptions if you are traveling as part of a school trip or visiting close relatives in Estonia.
It is recommended to check with the nearest Estonian embassy or consulate for updated information on visa fees and payment methods accepted.
6. Can I extend my tourist visa in Estonia?
Yes, it is possible to extend your stay in Estonia on a tourist visa. However, this is only permitted under exceptional circumstances such as unforeseen events like health reasons, natural disasters, or humanitarian reasons.
If you need to extend your stay for other reasons such as continuing tourism activities or visiting friends/family, it is recommended to leave Estonia before your initial tourist visa expires and apply for a new one from outside the country if necessary.
7. Can I work on an Estonian tourist visa?
No, it is not permitted to work while on an Estonian tourist visa. The purpose of a tourist visa is solely for tourism and leisure activities. Engaging in any form of paid work, even short-term or temporary work, is not allowed. If you are caught working while on a tourist visa, you may be subject to fines and possible deportation.
If you wish to work in Estonia, you will need to apply for a work visa from your home country before traveling. Alternatively, if your employer has obtained a residence permit for you, this may also allow you to work in Estonia legally.
3. Are there any exemptions for certain nationalities in regards to visa requirements in Estonia?
Yes, certain nationalities are exempt from visa requirements for entering Estonia. These countries include the members of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland. Citizens of other countries may also be exempt if they hold a residence permit or long-stay visa from another Schengen area country. Additionally, citizens of some countries may also be able to enter Estonia for short stays without a visa if they hold a valid residence permit or visa for the United States, Canada, Japan, South Korea, or certain countries in Latin America. It is recommended to check with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia for the most up-to-date information on visa exemptions.
4. How long does it typically take to obtain a visa for Estonia?
The processing time for an Estonian visa varies depending on the type of visa being applied for and the individual’s country of origin. In general, it can take anywhere from 2 weeks to several months to receive a visa for Estonia. It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of your planned travel date. To get an accurate estimate of processing time, it is best to contact the nearest Estonian embassy or consulate.
5. Is there an option for expedited processing of visa applications for Estonia?
Yes, there is an option for expedited processing of visa applications for Estonia. The Embassy or Consulate of Estonia may offer the option of expedited or urgent processing for certain visa applications in cases where the applicant has an urgent need to travel to Estonia. However, this service may come at an additional cost and is subject to approval by the Embassy or Consulate. It is recommended to contact the Embassy or Consulate directly to inquire about their specific procedures and fees for expedited visa processing.
6. Are vaccinations required for entry into Estonia?
No, vaccinations are not required for entry into Estonia.
7. Is there a limit on how long I am allowed to stay in Estonia on a tourist visa?
Yes, the maximum stay on a tourist visa in Estonia is up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If you wish to extend your stay beyond this period, you will need to apply for a residence permit.
8. Can I work or volunteer while on a tourist visa in Estonia?
Yes, it is possible to work or volunteer while on a tourist visa in Estonia. However, there are some limitations and restrictions in place.
According to the Estonian Embassy, individuals with a valid Schengen tourist visa are allowed to engage in volunteer work for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. They can also attend unpaid training courses or seminars during this time.
However, working for an employer or receiving any form of payment is not allowed on a tourist visa. If you wish to work in Estonia, you will need to obtain a work permit before entering the country.
It is important to note that even though certain types of work may be allowed on a tourist visa, it is always best to check with the Estonian Embassy or the Immigration and Border Guard before engaging in any activities related to employment. Violating the terms of your tourist visa could lead to deportation or legal consequences.
9. Is it possible to extend my tourist visa once I am already in Estonia?
Yes, it is possible to extend your tourist visa while in Estonia. You can apply for an extension at a local migration office or police station. The decision to approve or deny an extension is made by the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board. It is recommended to apply for an extension at least two weeks before your current visa expires. 10. What are the necessary documents and fees required for a visa application to Estonia?
The necessary documents and fees required for a visa application to Estonia will vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, the following documents and fees are required:
1. Formulario de solicitud de visa completado
2. Valid passport or travel document
3. Dos fotografías recientes tamaño pasaporte.
4. Proof of travel insurance
5. Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Estonia
6. Flight itinerary or confirmed return ticket
7. Proof of accommodation in Estonia (hotel booking, rental agreement, invitation letter from a host)
8. A cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip and your itinerary
9. For business trips: invitation letter from an Estonian company
10. For study/training trips: acceptance letter from an Estonian educational institution or training provider
11. Medical certificate (if applicable)
12. Visa fee payment (varies depending on the type of visa and nationality)
It is important to check with the Estonian embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements and fees as they may vary depending on your nationality and personal circumstances.
11. Are there any specific requirements or restrictions for business travelers entering Estonia?
As of September 2021, the following requirements and restrictions are in place for business travelers entering Estonia:
1. Vaccination or COVID-19 Recovery: All arrivals must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or have recovered from COVID-19 within the last six months.
2. Negative Test: Unvaccinated travelers must present a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival, or a rapid antigen test taken no more than 48 hours before arrival.
3. Documentation: Business travelers must be able to provide supporting documentation for their trip, such as proof of employment or an invitation from a business partner in Estonia.
4. Entry Declaration Form: All arrivals must fill out an entry declaration form prior to travel.
5. Quarantine Requirements: Unvaccinated travelers coming from countries with high rates of COVID-19 must self-quarantine for ten days upon arrival, with the option to take another PCR test after seven days to end quarantine early if the result is negative.
6. Travel Restrictions: Business travelers from certain countries may be subject to additional entry restrictions based on their country of origin’s epidemiological situation.
7. EU Digital COVID Certificate: The EU Digital COVID Certificate can be used as proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test results when traveling within the EU/European Economic Area (EEA).
It is recommended to regularly check the official government website for updates on entry requirements before planning any business trips to Estonia.
12. Do minors require a separate visa when traveling with their parents or legal guardians to Estonia?
No, minors traveling with their parents or legal guardians do not require a separate visa for Estonia. They can travel on the same visa as their parents or legal guardians as long as they are included in the visa application and have valid passports. However, if the minor is traveling without their parents or legal guardians, they may need to obtain a separate visa. It is recommended to consult with the Estonian embassy or consulate for specific requirements and procedures for minors traveling alone.
13. What is the duration of validity for a tourist visa to enter Estonia?
The duration of validity for a tourist visa to enter Estonia can vary, but is typically up to 90 days within a 180-day period from the date of issuing. It is important to note that this is subject to change and it is best to check with the Estonian Embassy or Consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information.
14. Can I enter and exit multiple times with one single-entry tourist visa for travels within Estonia?
No, a single-entry tourist visa only allows you to enter Estonia once. If you plan to leave and re-enter Estonia during your stay, you will need to apply for a multiple-entry visa.
15. Can I apply for a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Estonia?
No, you cannot apply for a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Estonia. You must obtain a visa before traveling to Estonia from an Estonian embassy or consulate in your home country or country of residence. Some nationalities may be exempt from obtaining a visa for short visits, but it is best to check with the nearest Estonian embassy or consulate before traveling.
16. Does my passport need to have a minimum number of months remaining before expiration in order to apply for a visa to enter Estonia?
Yes, your passport must be valid for at least three months after the planned departure date from Estonia in order to apply for a visa. If your passport will expire within three months, you will need to renew it before applying for a visa.
17. Will my criminal record affect my eligibility for obtaining a visa to enter Estonia?
It is possible that a criminal record may affect your eligibility for obtaining a visa to enter Estonia. It will depend on the severity of the offense and whether it is considered a threat to national security or public order in Estonia. The final decision on visa issuance is made by Estonian authorities, taking into account all relevant factors. It is recommended that you disclose any criminal record in your visa application and provide all necessary documents, such as court records and character references, to support your case.
18. What are the consequences if I overstay my tourist visa period in Estonia?
Overstaying your tourist visa period in Estonia can result in serious consequences such as:
1. Penalties and fines: Overstaying your visa period may result in an administrative fine of up to 3,200 euros, based on the length of overstay and other factors.
2. Visa revocation: Your tourist visa may be revoked if you overstay your allowed period in the country. This may also affect your ability to obtain a visa in the future.
3. Deportation: If you overstay for a significant period or have a history of overstaying, you may be deported from Estonia. This can also lead to being banned from entering the country for a certain period.
4. Difficulty re-entering Estonia/EU: Overstaying your visa can also make it difficult for you to re-enter Estonia or any other EU countries in the future, as overstaying is considered a violation of immigration laws.
5. Legal consequences: In some cases, overstaying may be considered a criminal offense and could lead to legal consequences such as imprisonment, depending on the length of overstay and other factors.
It is important to abide by the terms of your tourist visa and leave Estonia before your allowed period expires to avoid these consequences. If you wish to stay longer, you should apply for an extension or change of visa type before your current one expires.
19.Is it possible to convert from one type of temporary residency permit (such as student, work, or family) to another while remaining within country limits in Estonia?
Yes, it is possible to convert from one type of temporary residency permit to another in Estonia while remaining within the country limits. This process is called “changing the purpose of stay” and can be done at the Police and Border Guard Board. However, it is important to note that not all types of temporary residency permits can be converted into each other. For example, a student residence permit cannot be converted into a work residence permit, but it can be changed to a family member residence permit if the requirements are met. It is recommended to consult with the Police and Border Guard Board for specific information and requirements for changing the purpose of stay for your specific situation.
20.What are the mandatory requirements regarding passport photos and sizes for visa application in Estonia?
According to the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the following are the mandatory requirements regarding passport photos and sizes for visa application in Estonia:
1. The photo must be recent (taken within the last 6 months) and accurately represent your current appearance.
2. The photo must be in color and printed on high-quality photo paper.
3. The size of the photo must be 35 mm x 45 mm.
4. The background of the photo must be white or light-colored and free from patterns or shadows.
5. Your head must occupy 70-80% of the image with a neutral facial expression and both eyes open.
6. You must be facing directly towards the camera with your face visible, not tilted or rotated.
7. The photo must be clear and in focus with no red-eye or other blemishes.
8. Headgear is only allowed for religious purposes, but it must not cover any part of your face or cast shadows on it.
9. Glasses are allowed as long as they do not cover your eyes and there is no reflection on them.
10. If you wear glasses that can’t be taken off for medical reasons, make sure there’s no glare on them.
It is important to note that these requirements may vary depending on the specific embassy or consulate where you are submitting your visa application. It is recommended to check with the relevant embassy/consulate for any additional requirements before submitting your application.