Study Abroad: Student Visa in Estonia, Application Process and Requirements

Are you planning to get a student visa in Estonia? If yes, then you are at the right place. Of the three Baltic states, Estonia is the northernmost, bordering Russia to the east and Latvia to the south. Finland’s southernmost point is located just a short distance away across the sea.

At 1.3 million people, Estonia is among the least populous nations in Europe. In total, Estonia has roughly twenty higher education establishments. You can study English at that level. 

Estonia is a technological leader in the globe despite its tiny size. It is the original home of TransferWise and Skype. Estonia is at the forefront of technology. 

The Bank of Estonia, the world’s first bank to provide e-residency for financial services and enterprises, is also based there. 

In this blog, we have given detailed information about student visas in Estonia. From the application process to the possibilities of rejection, we have covered it all. 

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Who Needs To Apply for a Student Visa in Estonia?

To study in Estonia, anyone who is not from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland must apply for a student visa. Your options for applying to study in Estonia will depend on how long you want to stay:

• Short-term study visa: You have six months to spend ninety days in Estonia with this visa. For training sessions, conferences, courses, etc., a short-term visa is recommended.
• Long-term student visa: You have 365 days to visit and study in Estonia with this visa.
• A temporary residency authorization: You have five years to stay and study in Estonia with a residence permit.

For ninety days, citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland are exempt from needing a visa to study in Estonia. 

However, they must register their place of abode and apply for an Estonian ID card if they intend to stay longer than ninety days.

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What Are The Types of Estonia Student Visa?

Sorting students based on the reason for and length of their education in Estonia is the simplest method to convey the available possibilities. 

But keep in mind that they are broad classifications. Variations could be relevant to specific personalities, programs, or educational levels. 

So, please strictly abide by the precise instructions that UT staff members provide you. It is recommended that personnel and students select a multiple-entry visa.

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Degree-seeking students

• Study period in Estonia up to one year – D visa, TRP is not required.
• Study period longer than one year – entering Estonia with a D visa and requires students to apply for TRP for studies once they are in Estonia. 

Short-term students

• Study period up to 3 months – D visa or C visa, TRP is not granted.
• Study period up to 12 months – D visa, TRP is not granted.

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What Is The Difference Between an Estonia Schengen Visa and a Long-Term Visa?

The differences between an Estonia Schengen visa and a long-term visa are:

Estonia Schengen Visa	Estonia Long-Term Visa
Is issued for 90 days.	It is issued for 365 days.
It is recommended more for short visits, for tourism, etc.	It is recommended more for study, work, business, and family reunion purposes.
You are not able to obtain a residence permit. You must leave Estonia before the visa expires.	You can obtain a residence permit, and extend your stay indefinitely.

What Are The Documents Required for an Estonian Student Visa?

1. Valid passport: After the return date, your passport must still be valid for at least three months. Ascertain that your passport is in good shape and enclose a copy of any prior visas, if any.

2. Two passport-sized pictures: The images had to be from the previous six months. They need to be photographed against a light background and in colour.

3. Application form: The Estonian application form must be completed electronically, printed on paper, and signed at the end. Make sure there are no spaces left unfilled.

4. Proof of fee payment: The cost of obtaining an Estonian study visa is €100. When you turn in your paperwork at the embassy or consulate, you can pay with cash or a credit or debit card. Attach the receipt to your application after completing the payment for your Estonian visa.

5. An acceptance letter from the college: Provide documentation attesting to your acceptance to a university in Estonia.

6. Statements from banks: Provide documentation of your last six months’ worth of bank statements. This paper serves as proof of your ability to pay for yourself in Estonia.

7. Evidence of accommodations: This document needs to attest to the fact that you are staying in Estonia. This document, for instance, could be a:

• A letter from the Estonian university confirming that you would be living with other students
• A letter of invitation. This document, which attests to their ability to sponsor and pay for your stay in Estonia, may be provided by one of your relatives living in Estonia
• Make a hotel reservation
• Rent contract

8. Health insurance document: Evidence of current, legitimate health insurance that is valid within the Schengen area. 

9. Criminal history: A police record from your nation of origin attesting to your lack of criminal background.

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How To Apply For A Student Visa In Estonia?

You must do the following procedures to apply for an Estonian student visa:

• Make an appointment by contacting the Estonian embassy or consulate that is closest to you in your home nation.
• For your visa appointment, turn in the application form, the receipt for the fee, and all other required paperwork.
• Await hearing back regarding your visa outcome from the embassy or consulate. After submitting your documents to the embassy or consulate, you will receive an email or text message containing the outcome of your visa application.

The visa application process for most European countries is similar. For example, the Spain student visa application process is quite similar to that of the process for a student visa in Estonia.

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The general costs of a student visa in Estonia:

• A short-stay visa is €80.
• A long-stay visa is €100.
• An airport transit visa is €80. 
• A Schengen visa for children under the age of 15 is €40.

Estonia presents a compelling option for international students seeking a vibrant and modern study abroad experience. By understanding the visa requirements, application process, and living costs, you can make informed decisions about pursuing your education in Estonia. Remember to start planning well in advance, gather the necessary documents, and carefully review the application process to ensure a smooth transition to student life in Estonia. Want more such updates? Make sure you follow Leverage Edu News Updates.