Long-stay visas (Type D)
Estonian Residence Permit for Study
A temporary residence permit for non-EU students enrolled in a full degree programme at an Estonian educational institution.
Important information
- Issued by
- Police and Border Guard Board (PPA)
- Validity
- Duration of the curriculum, up to 5 years
- Income requirement
- Sufficient funds — four times the subsistence level (set annually by law)
- Decision time
- Up to 2 months from acceptance
- After studies
- Up to 270 days to find a new legal basis to stay
Who it's for
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals admitted to a full degree programme (or other qualifying study) at an educational institution in Estonia, whose studies will last longer than a year.
Requirements
- Admission to a recognised Estonian educational institution
- Sufficient income to support yourself (four times the subsistence level)
- A health insurance contract valid in Estonia
- A valid travel document
- Registration of your Estonian residence in the Population Register after arrival
What you can do
- Live in Estonia for the duration of your studies (up to five years)
- Work in Estonia alongside your studies, provided it does not hinder them
- Stay up to 270 days after the permit expires to find work or another basis to remain
- Progress towards a work or other residence permit after graduation
How to apply
Apply at an Estonian embassy abroad or, where allowed, at a PPA service office in Estonia, submitting proof of admission, funds and insurance and giving biometrics. Many students enter first on a long-stay D-visa and then apply for the study residence permit.
A decision is made within up to two months of the application being accepted.
Documents
- Completed application form and photograph
- Valid travel document
- Proof of admission / enrolment from the Estonian institution
- Evidence of sufficient funds (four times the subsistence level)
- Health insurance valid in Estonia
- Proof of payment of the state fee
Frequently asked questions
Yes, students may work provided the work does not interfere with their studies.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
Related Estonian visas
- SHORT STAYUP TO 365 DAYSMULTI-PURPOSELong-Stay (Type D) VisaEstonia's national long-stay visa allowing a stay of up to 365 days within a 12-month period for work, study, business or other approved purposes.View visa details
- BUSINESSREMOTE WORKERSUP TO A YEARDigital Nomad VisaA long-stay visa letting location-independent remote workers live in Estonia for up to a year while working for employers or clients based outside Estonia.View visa details
- WORKJOB REQUIREDSALARY THRESHOLDResidence Permit for EmploymentA temporary residence permit letting non-EU nationals with an Estonian employer live and work in Estonia, subject to a salary threshold and, usually, Unemployment Insurance Fund approval.View visa details
