Estonia Tourist Visa Guide
Estonia, a land of captivating islands, pristine coastlines, and a rich architectural heritage, is now easily accessible to travelers worldwide, thanks to the Estonia tourist visa. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or adventure, Estonia has something for everyone. From its historical buildings that span various eras to its breathtaking landscapes, Estonia promises an unforgettable experience.
What is Estonia Tourist Visa? To visit Estonia, most travelers require a visa, specifically the Estonia Schengen tourist visa. This visa allows tourists to enter Estonia for leisure activities, sightseeing, and adventure. Similar to other Schengen tourist visas, it permits a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It comes in various formats, including single-entry, double-entry, or multiple entries, depending on your travel needs.
How to Apply for Estonia Tourist Visa? The application process for an Estonia tourist visa for Indian citizens is primarily conducted online, with offline submission. Ensure your eligibility for the tourist category before proceeding with the application:
- Gather all required documents for the tourist category.
- Visit the Estonian embassy website and access the online visa application portal.
- Create an account and complete the Estonia visa application form with your details.
- You’ll receive an application number and the completed form via email. Print and sign the form.
- Book a visa appointment at one of the Visa Application Centers (VACs).
- Attend the appointment with your documents, the signed application form, and the visa fees. Submit your documents and biometrics at the designated center.
If you’ve submitted biometrics within the past 5 years, you may not need to resubmit them. In such cases, you can send the application through a third party or use dropbox facilities provided by the VACs. Ensure that your application form is signed, as unsigned forms are rejected.
Eligibility for Estonia Tourist Visa To qualify for a tourist visa, you must meet the following conditions:
- Apply from your home country or, if residing abroad, from a nation where you hold a residence permit.
- Possess a passport valid for at least 6 months from your travel date.
- Have a clear intent for tourism-related activities during your visit.
- Demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your stay.
- Apply for the permit if Estonia is your sole destination or, if visiting multiple Schengen countries, spend the majority of your time in Estonia or have Estonia as your port of entry.
Documents Required for Estonia Tourist Visa As per Estonia tourist visa requirements, you must provide the following documents:
- Valid Indian passport and any previous passports.
- Two passport-size photographs.
- A covering letter explaining your trip details.
- Comprehensive travel itinerary.
- Confirmed round-trip flight tickets.
- Proof of accommodation.
- Travel medical insurance with coverage of €30,000.
- Proof of occupation.
- Financial documents showing sufficient funds.
Specific documents may be necessary based on your visa type.
Estonia Tourist Visa Photo Requirements Ensure your visa photo meets these specifications:
- Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm.
- Colored photograph.
- The central position of the head.
- Recently captured within the last 3 months.
- Solid, plain white, or grey background.
- 80% face coverage.
- Neutral facial expression.
- Non-thick framed glasses and prescription glasses are permitted.
- Headgear allowed for religious reasons.
- Facial hair is allowed.
Estonia Tourist Visa Processing Time Estonia tourist visa processing typically takes around 15 working days. However, processing time can vary based on factors such as the type of visa, the number of applications at the embassy, and more. To ensure a smooth experience, apply well in advance.
Estonia Tourist Visa Fees The total fees for an Estonia tourist visa depend on various factors, including the number of entries, biometric charges, service charges, and foreign exchange rates. It’s advisable to check the exact fee before starting your application.
| Entry | Stay Duration | Validity | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multiple entry Normal | 90 days | 3 months | 8319.0 |
Where to Apply for a Visa to Estonia? Estonia visa applications are submitted online, but submission locations vary by visa type:
- C-type visas are submitted at Visa Application Centers (VACs) located in major Indian cities.
- D-type visas (long-term) must be submitted directly at the Embassy of Estonia in New Delhi.
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After Submission Once you’ve submitted your application and paid the fees, your application begins processing. If the embassy requires additional documentation, they will notify you. Upon visa approval, collect it from the respective VAC in person or have it delivered via mail.
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How to Check Visa Status? While awaiting a decision, track your application on the VAC website using the provided tracking facility. Enter your application number and name to check your status. Alternatively, contact the travel agency through which you applied for the visa.
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When You Have This Visa Once you receive your tourist visa, remember the following:
- Note the visa expiry date and number of entries on the sticker. Do not overstay beyond this period.
- Carry a copy of your passport and travel documents while exploring the country.
- Tourist visas do not permit work activities.
- Extensions are not possible unless extreme unforeseeable circumstances arise.
- You can visit other Schengen nations while on this permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Estonian tourist permits, like other Schengen country tourist permits, are non-extendable. You must depart before the expiration date. In exceptional cases like force majeure or medical emergencies, extensions may be considered.
Overstaying your tourist permit is considered an offense. You must leave the country before the sticker’s specified date. Staying beyond this period can lead to deportation or even a ban on re-entry.
Estonia tourist permits do not require mandatory medical tests. However, longer-duration Estonia permits may have medical test requirements. In any case, it’s advisable to undergo a medical checkup before traveling abroad.
No, you cannot convert your Estonia Schengen tourist visa into another category. Upon expiration, you must leave the country. If you plan to study, you’ll need to apply for a new student visa from your home country.
Yes, you are free to travel to other Schengen countries with an Estonian permit. Estonia’s Schengen membership allows visa-free travel within the Schengen states. However, entry is subject to each country’s immigration rules.