e-Residency is an Estonian government programme which grants successful applicants an Estonian digital ID. The programme has been created to enable remote identification and access to the Estonian digital services (state services, banking, etc). With an e-residency card, the holder will also receive the option to sign documents digitally which is equal to in person identification and signing. For you, the benefits will be being able to submit the residence permit documents online without an appointment, and access to online banking before having an Estonian residence permit.
Importantly, e-Residency does not grant any physical residency rights, nor does being an e-resident directly benefit visa/residency applications. An e-Residency card is also not an equivalent to a personal ID document.
1. Preparing for the application process
You should have the following items readily at hand before you start:
- Your up-to-date English language CV. Make sure it includes all previous employment and education history and the locations by every item (city, country);
- A clear copy of your passport’s ID page;
- A document photo that very closely meets the requirements set out here;
- Your credit card (VISA Credit card OR MasterCard Debit/Credit card) to pay a state fee 100€.
2. Submitting the application
Create an account for yourself on the Estonian Police Board’s online website here. Follow the instructions and complete the application process. With the above documentation prepared beforehand, it should take ca. 30 minutes. The FAQ page should help you if you face any other difficulties during the process.
- Where the reason for applying is asked, you should choose the option that covers ‘Employment in Estonia’. Where further explanations are asked, note that you are employed in Estonia and need access to online banking and other online services while working in Estonia.
After your application has been submitted, you should receive a confirmation email from the authorities. Check your junk/spam folder as well. During processing, you can track the progress of your application in the same online self-service portal where you submitted your application.
3. e-Residency has been granted
A decision on your application will be made within 30 days from submission and you will receive the notification via email. When a positive decision is issued, it will take around 2-5 weeks for your e-Residency card to reach the pick-up location. If applying when already in Estonia, it will likely take 2-3 weeks.
You will be notified via email when you can visit the Police Board office to pick up the document. When attending the office, bring along your original passport for identification. Your fingerprints will be collected and you will be issued the e-Residency kit.
Together with the e-Residency card, you will receive PIN codes. These are confidential and very important, as you can use them for digital signing purposes. Let your MoveMyTalent consultant know once you’ve received the e-Residency card and they will advise you on next steps.