Estonian visa resources
After you arrive in Estonia
After arriving, residence permit holders collect their residence permit card in person and register their place of residence in the Estonian Population Register.
Important
Once your long-stay (D) visa or residence permit is granted and you are in Estonia, there are a few national steps to complete. Residence permit holders receive a residence permit card, which is the obligatory identity document for domestic use for non-EU nationals living in Estonia on a permit. The card must be collected in person and is valid for up to 5 years.
Residence permit holders must also settle in Estonia and register their place of residence in the Population Register - a requirement built into the employment and study residence routes.
Collect your residence permit card
- Collect the card yourself in person; book a PBGB service office slot at broneering.politsei.ee
- Cards can also be picked up at certain retail stores during opening hours for a service fee (EUR 8 for adults; EUR 4.80 for minors and seniors/disabled persons)
- Bring your old residence permit card if renewing
- The card certifies your right to reside and serves as your identity document
Register your place of residence
- Residence permit holders must register their Estonian address in the Population Register
- This is a condition of settling in Estonia under the employment and study permit routes
Keep your status valid
- A long-stay (D) visa allows a stay of up to 365 days within twelve consecutive months
- If extending a period of stay in Estonia, apply to the PBGB at least 30 days before your current stay expires
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.