Estonia
Residence procedure: Right of residence registration at the local municipality
Official government websiteYour 7-step relocation checklist
- Step 1
EU Free Movement confirmed
As an EU citizen, you have the right to live and work in Estonia with no visa. Bring a valid passport or national ID card.
- Step 2
Find accommodation
A local address is required for most other steps (registration, bank, tax number). Check housing costs before you move.
Cost of living in Estonia - Step 3
Register your residence — Right of residence registration at the local municipality
Deadline: Within 3 months of arrival. This is the local residence registration procedure required under EU Directive 2004/38/EC after your first 3 months.
Official government portal - Step 4
Get your Isikukood (personal identification code)
You need a Isikukood (personal identification code) to work, get paid, or open a bank account in Estonia.
Apply for Isikukood (personal identification code) - Step 5
Register with Estonian Health Insurance Fund (Tervisekassa)
Once resident and working, register with Estonian Health Insurance Fund (Tervisekassa). In the meantime your EHIC covers necessary care.
Estonian Health Insurance Fund (Tervisekassa) portal - Step 6
Open a local bank account
Most Estonia employers pay salary into a local EUR account. Bring your ID, proof of address and Isikukood (personal identification code).
- Step 7
Calculate your expected net salary
See what you'll actually take home in Estonia after tax and social security.
Open net salary calculator
FAQ — Moving to Estonia
Information verified for 2026 from official Estonia government sources. This guide applies to EU citizens under EU Directive 2004/38/EC.