WHO ARE DIGITAL NOMADS? WHAT IS THE VISA FOR DIGITAL NOMADS IN ESTONIA?
Digital nomads is a term one encounters with increasing frequency. According to the simplest definition, it is a person who combines travel and work through the use of new technologies in the broadest sense. They can work from anywhere on the globe as long as they have access to the Internet. It is estimated that by 2035 there will be more than one billion such people worldwide!
Estonia as the digital heart of Europe
Estonia is actively trying to work on its image as the digital heart of Europe. It is a country that understands the modern following of the absence of physical boundaries and limitations and the necessity of global operation of businesses of the future. Hence, it was one of the first countries in the world to introduce a special type of visa dedicated to people who work in one country and want to physically stay in Estonia specifically. This program began in August 2020 and is being successfully continued.
Visa for digital nomads in Estonia
The idea behind the digital nomad visa is to allow entrepreneurs, employees and freelancers to provide work from the territory of Estonia without having an actual residence there. This is particularly innovative and suited to the realities of a changing world and all the more useful in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic.
How to apply for a digital nomad visa in Estonia?
What does it look like in practice to apply for this type of visa? Digital nomads are subject to general requirements similar to those of applicants for other types of visas. This means that in order to be granted one needs to verify one’s identity and provide information on one’s intended stay. Basic criteria must also be met: work using modern technologies (in other words, it is necessary to prove being a digital nomad), be an employee of a foreign entity (or a partner in a company registered outside Estonia, or be a freelancer providing services to entities outside Estonia documented by an appropriate contract), and it is necessary to prove receipt of relevant income.
The visa program itself will be gradually expanded and can be combined with other Estonian programs such as obtaining e-residency in one application.
For what period is the visa issued?
The Estonian digital nomad visa is issued for one year and cannot be extended. It is possible to apply for a second visa of this type, but it is only issued for an additional six months. Its main advantage is the possibility to stay on Estonian territory and it can become an excellent starting point for getting to know the Estonian lifestyle and local culture. Family members of the holder can also apply for such a visa.
The described type of visa is another big step Estonia is taking towards work done remotely and independently of location. The adopted regulations are perfectly in line with global trends, daring to say that they even dictate them. Indeed, Estonia’s footsteps are being followed by other jurisdictions that see considerable potential in this modern form of travel.