Company Formation in Estonia
Are you considering the opportunity to establish a business in Europe and seeking the ideal jurisdiction to register a European company? Look no further!
Start a company in Estonia just in a few days!
It’s incredibly easy to open a company in Estonia. Choosing this EU country as the place to incorporate your enterprise is a smart decision because only in our country is there no corporate income tax on retained earnings.
Launch Your EU-Based Business with Ease!
Setting up a company in Estonia can be done quickly and simply within one week. Company registration can be completed in person or remotely via a power of attorney or by using e-Residency.
We are a direct service provider, operating without intermediaries to offer you efficient and reliable assistance in establishing your company in Estonia. We operate under state company service provider license number FIU000144.
Get In Touch With Us - Corporate Services Are Our Specialty! Send enquiryCompany Registration in Estonia
Estonian Company Setup - Fast & Simple Business Formation
If you’re planning to launch your business in Europe and expand into the European Union market, then registering a company in Estonia is an ideal starting point. This strategic choice offers a gateway to the EU, along with an advanced digital infrastructure and favorable business climate.
Start Your Business in the EU: Why Choose Estonia
Estonia is renowned as one of the most open and dynamic economies in Europe, celebrated for its progressive and adaptable commercial environment, as recognized by the OECD and World Bank. With a transparent and straightforward company formation process, your legal entity can be established and ready to operate within days.
Starting and Running a Business in Estonia
If you’re determined to establish a company in Europe, prioritizing this country for your business setup should be a top consideration. For years, Estonia has focused on creating a welcoming and innovative business environment to attract foreign capital and entrepreneurs worldwide.
Business Opportunities in Estonia: Enjoy Zero Corporate Tax
Estonia is the perfect destination for setting up a business, especially for global entrepreneurs and digital nomads. Its e-Residency program enables easy online management of an EU-based business. The country offers a simple, competitive tax system and a tech-friendly environment, boasting a skilled workforce and a strong focus on innovation.
A Leading European Hub for Innovation and Fintech
Estonia, with its simple and clear Commercial Code, has become an attractive environment for business and a vibrant center as a European IT hub and home to forward-thinking startups, as highlighted by Enterprise Estonia. This includes blockchain ventures, crypto exchanges, and innovative Web 3.0 projects. It’s also a breeding ground for DAOs, NFT marketplaces, fintech companies, crowdfunding platforms, and emerging DeFi models, all contributing to its growing tech landscape.
Key Advantages of Doing Business in Estonia
For many years Estonia is a leading country (1st place) in the International Tax Competitiveness Index and consistently ranks high in the Economic Freedom Index (8th place) and in the Ease of Doing Business Index (18th place).
Essential Benefits of Starting a Company in Estonia
Establishing a company in Estonia is an effective way to launch your business project and enter international markets. It helps diversify risks, reduce administrative burdens, and lower the tax load on your existing enterprise.
- 0% Tax Rate on Retained Earnings
Company profits are not subject to corporate or income tax until distributed to shareholders. All profits can be fully utilized for business development or reinvested to generate additional income, making Estonia similar to a tax haven.
- Minimum Share Capital is Just 0.01 €
When registering a company, founders can set the share capital at any amount. If it does not exceed 50,000 euros, the Business Register doesn’t require proof of payment into the charter fund (no bank or payment system confirmation needed).
- A Fully Digital Nation
Estonia’s comprehensive digitization of the public sector and business environment allows foreign investors and entrepreneurs to easily and quickly register companies, manage finances, pay taxes, and conduct business entirely online through state e-services available on the official portal eesti.ee.
This overview only scratches the surface of the numerous benefits associated with incorporating a company in Estonia. Starting your enterprise or startup here will favorably position you compared to other alternatives and help bring your business into the legal framework of the European Union quickly.
How to Register a Company in Estonia
Estonia has become a magnet for foreign entrepreneurs and investors due to its innovative approach to business regulation and the digital economy. Over the past 20 years, local government has actively pursued policies aimed at attracting foreign entrepreneurs and investors.
Ways to Set Up a Company in Estonia
The process of setting up a business in Estonia is completely free of bureaucracy, making it simple and transparent—anyone can establish an entity in just a few days.
Foreigners interested in opening a company in Estonia can use the following methods:
- Register a Company Online with e-Residency
To set up a company in the specialized online environment of the Business Register, all active persons (shareholders and directors) will require an e-Residency card.
Term: 1 day | Price: from 375 €
- Company Incorporation in Person
This procedure requires a personal visit to a notary’s office in Tallinn. Our lawyers will provide a preliminary consultation and legal support throughout the entire process.
Term: 1-5 days | Price: from 550 €
- Open a Company Remotely by Power of Attorney
To create a company remotely without personal presence, issue a notarized power of attorney to our agency’s lawyers, and we will carry out the entity formation on your behalf.
Term: 5-10 days | Price: from 900 €
OUR PRICING PLANS
Corporate Services for non-Residents
Below is a detailed breakdown of the fees for launching a company in Estonia. This includes a comprehensive list of costs associated with various additional corporate and legal services we offer to support your company's setup.
Type of servicesPrice
Opening a company online with e-Residency | Basic pagkage375 € Advanced pagkage700 € Company registration in person by visit | Basic pagkage550 € Advanced pagkage850 € Establishing a company remotely by power of attorney | Basic pagkage900 € Advanced pagkage1200 € Legal address in Tallinn (price for 1 year)250 € Contact person in Estonia (price for 1 year)250 € Virtual Office service (incl. legal address and contact person, price for 1 year)400 € Legal advice (price for 1 hour)75 € Accounting consulting (price for 1 hour)75 €* The cost of formation of an entity, regardless of the method, includes payment of all notary and state fees, as well as 1 hour of a legal or accounting advise. The advanced package includes legal address and contact person services for one year. The prices indicated above do not include a possible VAT.
Why Choose Eesti Firma OÜ?
Our team of consultants, lawyers, and accountants has specialized in commercial law and foreign business support in the European Union for over 10 years.
Experienced Team of Corporate Advisors and Lawyers
With over 10 years of experience, our team offers the highest quality service, finding solutions for the most complex situations. Top reasons to choose us for establishing a business in Estonia:
- Reliable Service Provider
We are a licensed company registrar, holding state license No. FIU000144 issued by the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).
- Years of Experience and Qualified Specialists
Our team comprises experienced consultants, graduate lawyers, and accountants. We have helped incorporate over 3,000 companies in the past 10 years.
- All Services Under One Roof
We are a direct service provider, offering all services with our own resources—no third parties involved. All consultants, lawyers, and accountants are employees of our agency.
- Quality Guarantee
We guarantee impeccable quality and efficiency, complete confidentiality, and a responsible approach to each client.
- Client-Centric Approach
As our client, you can always count on our support, including free legal or accounting advice from our specialists when necessary.
We look forward to becoming your trusted partner and will do everything we can to ensure that your company’s entry into the market meets your expectations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Establish a Company in Estonia
Establishing a business in a new country is an exciting opportunity to expand your horizons and tap into new markets. Estonia offers a straightforward and efficient process for business formation, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs worldwide.
Everything You Need to Know About Starting a Business in Estonia
This guide provides an overview of the essential steps to incorporate a company in Estonia, helping you navigate the process with confidence:
- Choose your company type
For small and medium businesses, a Limited Liability Company is most suitable. This structure limits liability, protecting your personal assets from business debts.
- Select a unique company name
Choose a name that isn’t already registered. It must follow local rules and include “OÜ” for a Private Limited Company. Check availability in the Business Register
- Choose the registration method
Decide between online or notary registration. Online registration uses e-Residency, allowing remote management. Alternatively, you can register via a notary, either in person or remotely with a power of attorney.
- Provide a local legal address
You need a registered office address in Estonia for official correspondence. Virtual Office services can provide a local address if needed.
- Register your company
Submit the required documents online or through a notary. Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays. Once approved, your enterprise will be listed in the Business Register.
- Open a business bank account
Open a corporate payment account for transactions, tax payments, and other business needs. You can choose a local bank or an international fintech service.
- Set up accounting
Arrange accounting services or use compliant software to meet Estonian accounting standards. This is key for accurate tax filings and annual reports.
- Stay compliant with ongoing obligations
Submit annual financial statements and tax declarations as required, and stay updated on regulatory changes to maintain compliance.
By following these steps, you can successfully establish a business in Estonia and take advantage of its innovative business environment. Whether you’re a startup enthusiast or an established entrepreneur, Estonia offers a transparent and efficient platform for your business ambitions.
Estonia vs. Other EU Countries: Unique Benefits
When considering company formation in the European Union, Estonia stands out for its unique benefits. Beyond the general perks of being in the EU, this country offers a progressive and supportive environment for modern businesses. Let’s take a look at what makes Estonia different from other EU countries:
- Unique Corporate Tax System
Estonia has a 0% corporate income tax on undistributed profits, meaning taxes only apply when profits are paid out as dividends. This allows businesses to reinvest earnings and grow faster. In most other EU countries, corporate taxes are levied annually, regardless of profit distribution.
- Effective e-Residency Program
The e-Residency program allows entrepreneurs worldwide to set up and manage an EU-based business entirely online. While other EU nations are beginning to offer digital services, this program is known for its efficiency and comprehensive features.
- Innovative Legal Framework
With progressive laws supporting blockchain, fintech, and cryptocurrencies, Estonia provides an ideal environment for innovative companies. According to Ministry of Economic Affairs a and Invest in Estonia, the country stands out for fostering growth in tech-driven sectors, unlike many other EU countries with more conservative regulations that can limit growth.
- Eurozone Membership
Estonia is part of the Eurozone, using the Euro as its currency, which simplifies transactions and removes currency exchange risks in Europe.
- Advanced E-Governance Services
Comprehensive e-governance solutions allow businesses to handle nearly all administrative tasks online—such as signing documents, filing reports, and paying taxes. This level of integration goes beyond what is typically available in other EU countries, where in-person processes are still common.
- Vibrant Startup Ecosystem
With one of the highest numbers of startups per capita in Europe, the country has a dynamic entrepreneurial community. Local incubators, accelerators, and an experienced mentor network, supported by organizations like the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Startup Estonia, create unique opportunities for startups.
Choosing Estonia for your company formation means tapping into a unique blend of innovation, transparency, and efficiency. These advantages make Estonia an exceptional place to start and grow your business in the EU.
Additional Services
We offer a full range of services necessary for Estonian company registration, starting commercial activities, and further growing your business. Our corporate and support services include:
- Accounting Services
We offer comprehensive tax and accounting service for local companies. Our specialists provide qualified support in document management, preparing annual reports, filing tax returns, obtaining VAT number and EORI number, accounting for fixed assets, payroll calculations, and more.
- Legal Address and Contact Person
Every undertaking formed in Estonia must have a legal address. For enterprises without local residents among founders or directors, we recommend appointing a contact person to receive mail and official notices addressed to the entity.
- Legal Services
Our lawyers have extensive experience in corporate and civil law, providing a wide range of legal services. We offer consultations, provide legal opinions, assist in preparing necessary documentation, including corporate documents , and represent you in negotiations or court proceedings if necessary.
- Payment Account Opening
We assist in opening of payment accounts with banks and payment service providers (EMI or PSP) in the European Union. We will find and offer the most efficient payment solutions based on your business model and activities.
We offer professional business consulting, accounting, and legal support to startups and established enterprises seeking to restructure internal processes and optimize performance.
Get in Touch for a Free Advice
Are you interested in registering a business in Estonia? For individual price quotations on company establishment and ongoing support, feel free to contact our specialists and consultants!
Corporate services are our specialty!
We will analyze your business model with you and offer the most effective Estonian company formation solution to bring your business to the European Union single market quickly.
FAQ | Frequently Asked Questions
Our goal is to provide you with useful information to help you understand the process and benefits of registering a business in Estonia. Below, you’ll find a list of the most frequently asked questions our consultants encounter. We hope this material will be interesting and useful to you.
- How long does it take to open a company in Estonia?
The processing time for company registration in Estonia is quick. Applications submitted online via the Business Register with e-Residency are processed within one working day. If you register through a notary, either in person or with a power of attorney, it takes up to five working days.
- What is the best legal form for opening a company in Estonia?
The Limited Liability Company (OÜ or osaühing) is the most common and effective choice. It requires at least one shareholder and one Management Board member. Liability is limited to the share capital contribution, offering security for entrepreneurs.
- How do I choose a name for my future entity?
Your company’s name must be unique in Estonia, both in spelling and pronunciation. You can check name availability on the e-Business Register website. A unique and memorable name is key for both compliance and brand identity.
- Do I have to pay the share capital for an Estonian company?
Yes, share capital is required at registration, with a minimum of €0.01. If it’s €50,000 or less, you don’t need to provide proof of payment to the Commercial Register.
- How can I pay the share capital?
You can pay in cash by depositing it into the company’s account or make a non-cash contribution using assets like equipment or property rights. Alternatively, retained earnings can be transferred to share capital through an equity issuance.
- Can foreigners be founders and directors of an Estonian company?
Yes, foreigners can be both founders and directors of an Estonian company. There are no restrictions based on residency, making Estonia an appealing option for international entrepreneurs entering the EU market.
- Can a foreign entity be a founder of an Estonian company?
Yes, a foreign company can establish an Estonian subsidiary. To do this, you’ll need recent official documents (not older than three months) from the parent company, including details about its registration, directors, founders, and beneficiaries.
- Can one person be both the shareholder and director of an Estonian company?
Yes, one person can be both the founder (shareholder) and director (Management Board member). This setup is ideal for solo entrepreneurs seeking full control of their business in Estonia.
- How do I choose the right field of activity for my company?
When registering in Estonia, you need to choose one intended field of activity from the EMTAK classification (based on NACE). This is for information purposes only and doesn’t limit your business. Our consultants can help you select the best field to align with your business model.
- Does choosing a field of activity restrict my business in Estonia?
No, choosing a field of activity doesn’t restrict your operations. You can conduct any legal business activities, and the field is usually not listed in the Articles of Association. This flexibility lets you change or expand your business scope freely and engage in multiple fields.
- Can an Estonian company have payment accounts in foreign banks?
Yes, an Estonian company can open and use current accounts with foreign banks and Electronic Money Institutions (EMIs) or Payment Service Providers (PSPs). Popular services that allow you to open a current IBAN account include Paysera, Wise, and Revolut. This flexibility facilitates international transactions and supports global business operations within the E
- Where can I obtain corporate documents for my Estonian company?
You can access electronic versions of your company’s corporate documents through the Estonian e-Business Register portal. This platform allows you to view and download essential documents such as the register card, Articles of Association, and Memorandum of Association. If you require certified or apostilled paper versions of these documents, you can order them through our services. We assist in providing all necessary documentation for your entity.
- Is it mandatory to pay a salary to the director in Estonia?
No, it’s not mandatory. A director (Management Board member) can work without receiving a salary, offering financial flexibility, particularly in the early stages of your business.
- Is it required to keep accounting records and file financial statements?
Yes, all companies in Estonia must keep accounting records and register all transactions. Annual financial statements must also be submitted to the Commercial Register within six months of the fiscal year’s end, typically by June 30. Compliance is crucial for lawful operation.
- Is there a corporate income tax in Estonia?
Estonia does not tax retained earnings. Profits are only taxed when distributed as dividends at a rate of 20/80 (effectively 25%). This allows companies to reinvest freely into business growth, making Estonia attractive for entrepreneurs seeking tax efficiency.
- Does the company have to register for VAT in Estonia?
Yes, a company must register for VAT when its annual taxable turnover exceeds €40,000. Below this threshold, registration is voluntary and may be beneficial depending on your activities.
- Do I need to pay taxes when paying foreign workers?
No, if you pay employees or freelancers who are not tax residents in Estonia, there are no tax liabilities in Estonia. The recipients are responsible for declaring and paying taxes in their country of residence.
- How do I find my company’s tax number TIN?
In Estonia, there is no separate Tax Identification Number (TIN). The entity’s registration number, issued by the Commercial Register, serves as the identifier for tax purposes.
- How can I register a company online?
To register online, you’ll need an e-Residency card, which allows you to sign documents electronically and access the Business Register’s portal for company formation.
- What is e-Residency?
E-Residency is a program that provides non-residents with a digital ID card, enabling them to sign documents, verify identity, and access Estonian e-services, including company registration and management.
- How can I apply for e-Residency?
Apply for e-Residency through the official website. The process involves submitting personal information, identification documents, and a state fee. Approved applicants can collect their starter kit at designated locations worldwide.
- Do I need to hire a local director or employees for my Estonian enitity?
No, you are not required to hire a local director or employees. You can manage the company remotely, with non-resident directors and shareholders.
- How many shareholders and directors can a company have?
An Estonian company needs at least one founder (shareholder) and one director (Management Board member). There is no maximum number of shareholders or directors.
- What are the requirements to start a company in Estonia?
To set up a company, submit an application with the company name, founders’ details, directors, beneficiaries, contact info, a local legal address, a field of activity code (EMTAK or NACE), and the Articles of Association. Our specialists can assist with document preparation.
- How are the activities of Estonian enterprises regulated?
Company activities in Estonia are regulated by the Commercial Code, which covers formation, management, and dissolution. The code is available in English, providing transparency for international entrepreneurs.