Temporary residence permit for study
Non-EU nationals admitted to full-time study at a recognised Estonian institution usually enter on a long-stay (D) visa and, if their studies last more than a year, apply to the Police and Border Guard Board for a temporary residence permit for study. Applicants confirm, by signing, that they have legal income of at least €880 a month (2026) and health insurance. The permit is issued for the study period, up to 5 years, and allows work that does not interfere with full-time studies.
Life in Estonia
Money
3
Currency
Euro
EUR
Euro
Cost of living
76
Price level · US = 100
World Bank price levels, 2025
Tax
Flat 22%
Income tax (national)
VAT 24%
Flat 22%; basic exemption EUR 700/month (EUR 8,400/year) from 2026. A planned rise for 2026 was cancelled.
Living
1
Happiness
#44 of 145 countries
World Happiness Report 2025
Your edge here Members
What gives you an edge here: passports, visas and permits you hold, work, study, language and family ties
Who it’s for
Non-EU nationals admitted to full-time bachelor's, master's or doctoral study, vocational school, preparatory courses or other recognised education in Estonia.
Eligibility
Admission and invitation
The school confirms admission; the institution's invitation is usually sent directly to the Police and Border Guard Board.
Sufficient legal income
- €880
- per month per applicant in 2026
At least four times the subsistence level, which is €880 per month per applicant in 2026, confirmed by signing the application. For the D visa, bank statements, a sponsor letter or a scholarship letter covering the 3 months before applying are submitted.
Health insurance
A health insurance contract meeting § 120 of the Aliens Act for the whole permit period (requirements differ from visa insurance).
A sneak peek at what's inside
- Next requirementCriminal record
- Document checklistD visa application form, photo, passport, insurance, acceptance letter and proof of income
- FeesLong-stay (D) visa state fee
The full requirements are for members
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- 2 more requirements
- 4 documents
- 2 fees
- 5 steps
- Processing times and conditions
Programs and scholarships Members
Study programs here that can lead to work and settlement, grouped by route and ranked for your background, with scholarships matched to your profile.
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