ETIAS Visa Waiver for Estonia

The Republic of Estonia is a relatively young nation in Europe, with a typical Estonian identity not forming until the 19th and 20th centuries, despite being populated as far back as 9000 BC at the latest. Bordering both Russia and Latvia with Finland to the north, Estonia enjoys a humid continental climate with vast temperature differences in the summer and winter months, making it an ideal tourist destination throughout the year.

As part of the European Union, Estonia will, therefore, be implementing the Europe travel authorization from 2026 .

Independence was declared by Estonia and the other Baltic states in 1991. Throughout the last three decades, the country has grown and transformed immensely to incorporate a capitalist democracy.

Becoming a member of the UN, NATO, and the European Union within 15 years of independence, Estonia has also since adopted the Euro as its currency and continues to grow economically, commercially, and technologically.

Estonia joined the Schengen zone in 2007 and is set to adopt the ETIAS visa waiver from 2026 . The European Union Agency for large scale IT Systems (eu-LISA), which manages the ETIAS system, is based in Tallinn, Estonia’s capital city.

ESTONIA’S FIGHT FOR INDEPENDENCE

Throughout history Estonia has been subject to German, Danish, Swedish, Polish, and Russian rule, gaining independence from Russia in 1920 after a short War of Independence.

In 1940, in the aftermath of World War II, Estonia was once again occupied by the Soviet Union. Estonia finally regained its independence in 1991, 20th August is now a national holiday celebrating the Day of the Restoration of Independence.

Estonia remains relatively undiscovered by tourists, something which adds to its attraction. Even during the high season, travellers can visit the country’s most popular sites without encountering large crowds. This lack of mass tourism gives Estonia an authentic and relaxing local charm.

Foreigners who do go to Estonia enjoy stunning landscapes, lakes, rocky beaches, and enchanting castles.

Another reason for non-Europeans to choose Estonia is the EU’s visa liberalisation policy. Many travellers from visa-exempt third countries can stay in Estonia without a visa for up to 90 days.

From 2026 , the ETIAS visa waiver will be available. It will become a requirement to cross an external Schengen Area border to reach Estonia. The same ETIAS can be used to visit Latvia, which lies just across the border, and other nearby Schengen member states.

DO I NEED HEALTH INSURANCE TO VISIT ESTONIA?

Citizens of the European Union can access healthcare during their stay in Estonia using the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Whether or not a visitor from outside the EU needs medical insurance for Estonia depends on the type of permit they are applying for.

MEDICAL INSURANCE FOR ETIAS ESTONIA

The ETIAS visa waiver will be operational from 2026 . It will become a mandatory entry requirement for Estonia.

Proof of health insurance is not one of the ETIAS visa waiver requirements. Nevertheless, foreigners may wish to take out insurance to travel with greater peace of mind and avoid costly medical fees in the event of an emergency.

HEALTH INSURANCE SCHENGEN VISA FOR ESTONIA

Non-EU citizens from third countries that do not qualify for ETIAS should apply for a Schengen visa.

To do so, the applicant must provide evidence of health insurance. The policy should provide coverage of at least €30,000 and be valid for the entire Schengen Area.

ARRIVING IN ESTONIA BY PLANE, CAR, AND FERRY

Tallinn Airport, officially known as Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport (IATA: TLL, ICAO: EETN) is the largest airport in Estonia. Tallinn Airport is located 4km from the city centre and has good public transport connections.

There are year-round and seasonal flights between Tallinn and several European destinations including Oslo, Helsinki, Berlin, and Brussels.

Estonia can be easily reached from Latvia by car or bus. As both countries are in the Schengen Area, travellers will not be stopped at land border checkpoints but should have their passport or identification document on their person.

Direct ferries from Sweden and Finland to Estonia are another popular and practical form of transport.

CROSSING THE ESTONIAN BORDER

Freedom of movement within the EU and Schengen Area means that there are no checkpoints between Estonia and other Schengen nations. Citizens of other EU nations should simply carry their passport or ID document with them when crossing an internal air, land, or sea border.

Non-EU nationals arriving in Estonia from a visa-exempt non-European nation can cross the border without a visa and stay for up to 90 days. Once ETIAS is launched, border officials will verify each passenger has a valid visa waiver.

Travellers from other third countries must have a Schengen visa and the following documents to cross the external border:

Estonian border authorities may ask visitors to provide the reason for their trip and the intended length of stay.

Estonia is the ideal destination for travellers who want a different European experience. Lesser known than holiday hotspots such as France, Spain, and Italy, Estonia has so far been unaffected by mass tourism.

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, has a bustling yet relaxed atmosphere. Its compact nature makes it easy to see everything and get around on foot. Within the walls of the Old Town, visitors will find charming cobbled streets, medieval churches, and structures dating back to the Middle Ages. Tallinn Old Town was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

A 2-hour drive from Tallinn lies Pärnu, a relaxing seaside town on Estonia’s west coast. The beach is beautiful and there are several spa hotels offering a variety of restorative treatments. Pärnu is also a convenient base from which to reach Kihnu island, home to a female-led society which embraces Estonia’s culture and traditions.

Besides visiting the main towns, tourists should also explore Estonia’s green spaces. Around half the country is covered in forests boasting a wide range of flora and fauna. Three national parks worth exploring are:

Travellers can enjoy traditional Estonian cuisine in the many excellent restaurants throughout the country. Local, high-quality ingredients are prioritised and some of the key ingredients are rye bread, meat, vegetables, fish and forest produce.