Estonia: Higher Minimum Funds Requirements and New Language Requirement for Renewals

Short-term employment registration applicants must now prove sufficient funds of at least EUR 1,200 (in savings or earned per month) when applying for a D-visa, and individuals entering Estonia to work in a start-up company or as seasonal workers must prove sufficient funds of at least EUR 800 (in savings or earned per month) when applying for a visa, whereas previously, there were no sufficient funds requirements for these categories of workers. Additionally, starting July 2023, temporary residence permit for employment renewal applicants will need to prove Estonian language proficiency at least at the language proficiency level A2. The following renewal applicants are exempt from this requirement: 1) applicants for a temporary residence permit for employment with the purpose of research activities; 2) applicants for an EU Blue Card; 3) applicants for a temporary residence permit for an intra-corporate transferee; and 4) applicants for a temporary residence permit for employment as an academic staff member in Estonia.