Doing Business with Estonia

A comprehensive guide to doing business, exporting, investing, and manufacturing in Estonia.

Foreign Direct Investment with the International Trade Council / Company Incorporation / Company Formation

Invest Estonia

Invest Estonia logo - International Trade

Tel: +372 627 9700
Web: www.investinestonia.com

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Estonian Tax and Customs Board

Estonian Tax and Customs Board logo - International Trade

Tel: +372 880 0811
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.emta.ee

National Chamber of Commerce

Estonia Eesti Kaubanduskoda

Estonia Chamber of Commerce logo - International Trade

Tel: +372 604 0060
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.koda.ee

Ministry of Economy Information

Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications

Ministry of Economic Affairs Estonia logo - International Trade

Phone: +372 625 6342
Email:
[email protected]
Web: www.mkm.ee

  • Type of Government: Parliamentary republic
  • Population: Approximately 1.3 million
  • GDP: Around $37 billion USD
  • Corporate Tax Rate: 20% on distributed profits
  • Personal Income Tax Rate: Flat rate of 20%
  • Major Exports: Machinery and equipment, mineral products, agricultural products
  • Major Imports: Machinery and equipment, mineral products, chemicals

Exporting to Estonia involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

  1. Conduct Market Research

    • Identify demand for your product in Estonia.
    • Understand local regulations and consumer preferences.
  2. Verify Export Regulations

    • Ensure compliance with international standards and Estonia’s import requirements.
    • Check for product certifications or standards needed.
  3. Prepare Export Documentation

    • Include commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin.
    • Ensure documents meet Estonia’s customs requirements.

Key Contacts

Importing goods into Estonia requires adhering to European Union and local regulations.

  1. Obtain an Importer’s License

    • Register your business with the Estonian Business Register.
  2. Customs Clearance

    • Submit all documentation to the Estonian Tax and Customs Board and pay applicable duties.

Estonia is famous for its digital governance. Incorporating a company can be done online:

  1. Register the Company Online

    • Use the Estonian e-Business Register to submit your application.
  2. Share Capital

    • Minimum share capital for a private limited company (OÜ) is **€2,500**.
  3. VAT Registration

    • If turnover exceeds **€40,000**, register with the Tax and Customs Board.

Key Contacts

Setting up manufacturing in Estonia provides access to the Nordic and Baltic markets:

  1. Choose a Suitable Location

    • Identify industrial zones with advanced digital and logistics infrastructure.
  2. Secure Financing

    • Explore government incentives through Enterprise Estonia.

Protecting intellectual property is managed by the Estonian Patent Office:

  1. Trademark Search

    • Ensure your trademark is unique via the Patent Office database.
  2. Filing Application

    • File with the Estonian Patent Office. Registration is valid for **10 years**.

1. Digital Society

  • Estonia is one of the most digitally advanced nations. Most business transactions and governance are handled online.

2. Tax System

  • Estonia features a unique corporate tax system where only distributed profits are taxed at **20%**.

Our Members Include Leading Organizations in Estonia

Ask our Experts on Doing Business in/with Estonia

If you’re looking to do business or invest in Estonia, we can provide expert guidance, market insights, and valuable connections to help you navigate the local landscape. Contact us today to discover how we can assist in making your venture a success.