Estonia Tourist Visa - Definitive Guide

To visit the country of Estonia, most people require a permit. Also known as the Estonia Schengen tourist visa, this permit allows people to enter the country for the purpose of tourism such as sightseeing, leisure activities, adventure activities, and so on. Similar to other Schengen tourist categories, this is also issued for a duration of 90 days in a 180-day period. This is issued in formats such as single-entry, double-entry, or even multiple entries depending upon your requirements.

The application for the Estonia tourist visa for Indians is done online. However, the submission of the application is performed offline. Before starting the application, it is essential to determine if you are eligible for the tourist category. If you are, you may proceed to make the application as follows - 

1. Obtain all the documents required for the tourist category. 
2. Visit the website of the Estonian embassy, and enter the online visa application portal.
3. Create an account and fill in the Estonia visa application form with your details. 
4. You will receive an application number, as well as the completed application form to your mail. Take a print out of this confirmation, and sign it.
5. Book your visa appointment at one of the VACs (Visa Application Center). 
6. Attend the visa appointment with your documents, duly signed application form, and the visa fees. You will have to submit the documents and your biometrics at the respective centre. 

Please note that if you have submitted biometrics in the past 5 years, you do not have to submit them again. In this case, you may send the application via a third person, or also choose to drop the documents at one of the dropbox facilities availed by the VAC. Also, note that you have signed the print out of the application form. Unsigned forms get rejected.

Ensure that you submit genuine documents and provide the right information. Submission of fake documents or wrong information can get your application rejected. Visa rejection can affect your future travel plans.

To ensure that you are eligible to apply for a tourist permit, you must meet the following conditions - 

1. You must be in your home country while applying in the country. If you are residing in a residence permit in a foreign nation, you may apply it from there. 
2. You must possess a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel.
3. Your sole purpose of the visit must be to take part in tourism-related activities.
4. You must have proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in the country.
5. You must apply for the permit only if -

• • Estonia is your only destination, or
  • Estonia is one of your multiple Schengen destinations, in which case you will be spending the majority of the time here, or, you are spending time in all the other destinations where Estonia is your port of entry.

As per the Estonia tourist visa requirements, the following are the documents you must produce to apply for the permit -

Mandatory Documents

1. Valid Passport:
• Issued within the last 10 years
• Valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area
• Have at least 2 blank pages
  
  
2. Completed and Signed Application Form:
• Download and fill the Schengen Visa application form (also available at the embassy/consulate website)
• Sign the form (for minors, parents/guardians must sign)
  
  
3. Recent Photos:
• 2 passport-sized photos (not older than 6 months)
• Meet the Schengen photo requirements
  
  
4. Flight Itinerary or Travel Plans:
• Confirmed flight tickets (if available) or a detailed travel itinerary
  
  
5. Travel Insurance:
• Covering at least €30,000 for medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation
• Valid for the entire Schengen Area and the duration of your stay
  
  
6. Proof of Accommodation:
• Hotel reservation or confirmation
• Invitation letter with your host's ID (if staying with family/friends)
  
  
7. Proof of Financial Means:
• Bank statement showing sufficient funds (approx. €67.65 per day for the duration of your stay)
• Income Tax Return (ITR) or salary slips (if employed)
  
  
8. Proof of Employment/Study (if applicable):
• Leave approval letter (if employed)
• University/School ID and proof of enrollment (if a student)

Additional Documents (May Be Required)

1. Cover Letter: Explaining the purpose of your visit, itinerary, and other relevant details.
2. Proof of Previous Visas (if any): Copies of previous Schengen Visas (if you've traveled to the Schengen Area before).
3. Marriage Certificate (if applicable): For spouses, if the surname has changed after marriage.
4. Minor's Birth Certificate (if applicable): For children, along with both parents' passports.

• Dimensions:  35mm X 45mm
• Colour: Coloured 
• Head must occupy the central position
• Must be recently captured within the last 3 months
• Background: Solid, plain white or grey
• 80% face coverage
• Neutral expression
• Glasses: Non-thick framed and prescription are permitted
• Headgears are allowed only for religious reasons
• Facial hair - permitted

The time taken for the Estonian tourist visa processing is approximately 15 working days. However, this can vary significantly based on several factors such as the number of entries, the volume of applications at the embassy, and so on. As a result, it is advised that you apply for the permit as early as allowed.

The total fees for the application depends on a lot of factors such as the number of entries, the biometric charges, as well as any other service charges. It can also vary upon the foreign exchange rates. As a result, it is suggested that you check the exact fees before applying.

Once you have submitted your application and paid the fees, your application will start being processed. In the meanwhile, if the embassy requires additional documentation, you will be notified. Once your visa has been approved, you may collect it from the respective VAC in person, or have it delivered to you via mail.

While you are waiting for a decision, you may track your application. You can do this by visiting the website of the VAC and using the tracking facility they provide. You will simply have to enter the application number and your name to do so. Alternately, you may contact the travel agency through whom you have applied for the permit.

Step 1: Book an Appointment

• Where to Book:
  
  
• Estonian Embassy: If there's a Estonian Embassy in your country, you can book an appointment directly with them. Check the official website of the Estonian Embassy in your country for appointment booking details.
• Estonian Consulate: If there's no embassy, look for a Estonian Consulate in your country. The process is similar to booking with an embassy.
• VFS Global: For many countries, Estonia has outsourced the preliminary application process to VFS Global, a third-party service provider. Check if VFS Global operates in your country and handles Estonian visa applications.
  
  
• When to Book:
  
  
• Peak Travel Seasons: It's crucial to book your appointment well in advance, especially if you're planning to travel during peak seasons (e.g., summer, holidays, or special events in Estonia).
• Non-Peak Seasons: Even during less busy periods, booking a few weeks in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
  
  
• How to Book:
  
  
• Online Booking: Most embassies, consulates, and VFS Global offer online appointment booking systems. You'll typically need to create an account, select a date and time, and confirm your appointment.
• Phone or Email: If online booking is not available, you might be able to book over the phone or via email. Be prepared to provide your name, preferred dates, and contact information.
  
  

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

• Mandatory Documents:
  
  
• Passport: Valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in the Schengen Area, with at least two blank pages.
• Completed Application Form: (Details in Step 3)
• Recent Photos: As per the Schengen Visa photo requirements.
• Travel Insurance: Covering at least €30,000 for medical and hospital expenses, including repatriation for medical reasons.
• Flight Itinerary or Travel Plans: Showing entry and exit from the Schengen Area.
• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking, rental agreement, or a letter from your host.
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statement showing sufficient funds for your stay.
• Employment Letter or Student ID (if applicable): To justify the purpose of your visit.
  
  
• Additional Relevant Documents (if applicable):
  
  
• Marriage Certificate (for family visits)
• Birth Certificate (for minors)
• Divorce/Death Certificate (if applicable)
• Any other document supporting your application purpose
  
  
• Language and Translation:
  
  
• Accepted Languages: English, German, French, or Estonian.
• Certified Translation: If your documents are in another language, ensure you provide a certified translation along with the original document.
  
  

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

• Obtaining the Form:
• Official Embassy/Consulate Website: Download the application form (usually in PDF format) from the official website of the Estonian Embassy or Consulate in your country.
• VFS Global: You can also pick up a form from a VFS Global center if they handle Estonian visa applications in your country.
  
  
• Filling Out the Form:
• Accuracy is Key: Ensure all information matches your documents.
• Signature and Date: Sign and date the form after completing it.
  
  
• Tips:
• Use Capital Letters: When filling out the form by hand.
• Do Not Leave Blank Spaces: If a question does not apply, write "N/A" (Not Applicable).
  
  

Step 4: Attend Your Appointment

• What to Bring:
  
  
• All Prepared Documents: Including the application form.
• Appointment Confirmation: Printed or digital.
• Biometric Data Capture: Be prepared for your fingerprints to be taken. (Certain individuals might be exempt; check with the embassy/consulate or VFS Global.)
  
  
• During the Appointment:
  
  
• Submission of Documents: Hand over all your documents and the application form.
• Biometric Data Collection: If not already done, your fingerprints will be collected.
• Interview (if required): In some cases, you might be asked questions about your application.
  
  

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

• Current Fee for a Schengen Visa: €60 (subject to change; check the latest rate before your application).
• Additional Fees for VFS Global Services: If you're using their services, there will be an extra charge for facilitation, which varies.
• Payment Methods: This can vary depending on where you submit your application. Common methods include cash, credit/debit cards, or bank transfers. Confirm the accepted payment methods in advance.
  
  

Step 6: Wait for the Decision

• Processing Time:
• Typical Processing Time: 15 calendar days.
• Extended Processing Time: Up to 30 days or more in complex cases or during peak periods.
  
  
• Tracking Your Application:
• Embassy/Consulate Website: Many offer online tracking services with your application reference number.
• VFS Global Tracking: If you applied through VFS Global, you can track your application status on their website or through their customer service.

Estonian Embassy/Consulate

1. Estonian Embassy in New Delhi:
• Address: 11, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi - 110021
• Phone: +91 (11) 4209 0700
• Email: newdelhi@um.dk
  
  
2. Royal Estonian Consulate General in Mumbai:
• Address: Raheja Center, 4th Floor, Nariman Point, Mumbai - 400021
• Phone: +91 (22) 2288 0921
• Email: mumbai@um.dk
  
  
3. VFS Global Application Centers

• Locations: New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.
• Booking Appointment: Through the VFS Global website or their helpline.
• Service Fee: In addition to the visa application fee, a service fee is charged by VFS Global.

• Apply Early: Especially during peak seasons (June to August, December).
• Double-Check Documents: Ensure all documents are complete, accurate, and meet the requirements.
• Travel Insurance: Must cover the entire Schengen Area and your stay duration.
• Stay Informed: Check the official government and embassy websites for the latest requirements and travel advisories.

Need more clarity on Estonian visa? check out helpful resources below

• Estonia Visa Requirements
• Estonia Business Visa Requirements 
• Estonia Visit Visa Requirements
• Visa Rejection Reasons