Register Company in Estonia within 7 days

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One-Stop Solution to register company in Estonia

To register company in Estonia can be a hassle-free process, if you know how. With Tetra Consultants at the wheel, you will be able to channel your time and energy into other more important aspects of business.

With our lean-and-mean mentality, you can rely on our team of experts to provide you a seamless experience throughout the steps to register company in Estonia. Our ultimate goal is for your Estonia company to be operationally ready within the stipulated time frame.

Estonia has clinched the first position in innovating and facilitating a pro-business environment. This comes as no surprise given their high level of digital integration, such as their e-Residency program which enables anyone to base their business operations in the country. Besides their advanced digitalisation initiatives, Estonia is also home to many other benefits such as a simple and competitive incorporation process. Needless to say, it is obvious why there is a growing list of companies in Estonia.

Our service package includes everything you will need for starting a business in Estonia:

Register company in Estonia with Estonian Centre of Registers and Information Systems
Local company secretary and registered address
Opening local or international corporate bank account
Estonia cryptocurrency license application (if required)
Tax registration
Annual accounting and tax services

Advantages of Register Company in the Estonia

E-residency program for remote management

Estonia provides an innovative e-Residency program that allows entrepreneurs from around the world to create and run an EU-based company entirely online. Through e-Residency, foreign entrepreneurs gain access to a digital identity allowing for secure digital signatures and remote management of an Estonian company without needing to be physically in Estonia.

0% corporate tax on retained earnings

Estonia does not tax corporate profits that are retained or reinvested in the corporation. The corporate income tax (20%) only applies when profits are provided as dividends. This unique tax treatment incentivizes reinvestments, allowing for greater growth by increasing the amount of capital a corporation has to provide back into its business.

Quick and easy online registration process

Estonia has a digital economy, so in Estonia themselves, the process of registering a company is very quick and simple, often resolving in an online hour (or perhaps minutes) through the e-Business Register. There is very little bureaucracy and no paperwork, or trips to Estonia, to complete company registration.

No requirement for local directors or shareholders

Founders and board members don’t have to be residents of Estonia, and there is no requirement to appoint a local director. This means that a foreign entrepreneur can own 100% and control an Estonian company remotely.

Low start-up costs & deferred share capital

The minimum amount of share capital is very modest (€2,500) and can be deferred- no large upfront financial commitment. The state-based registration fee is also very low, making Estonia one of the least expensive jurisdictions in Europe to start a business.

Access to the European Union market

Estonia is a full member of the EU and as such, any companies registered there can access the whole of the European single market. This allows for cross-border trade, collaboration, and expansion anywhere in Europe.

Advanced digital infrastructure & cybersecurity

Estonia is well known around the world for having cutting-edge digital infrastructure and cybersecurity systems. Their innovative digital government and decentralized data systems provide a safe and stable environment for business operations.

A transparent and stable legal framework

Estonia offers a transparent, modern, and business friendly legal framework. It is a part of international organizations like OECD, WTO, and Schengen, which enhances its political and economic stability and builds international trust in Estonian businesses.

No salary obligation for directors

Companies are not required to pay their directors a salary which gives companies the flexibility to manage expenses and cash flow.

Option for residence permits

Directors who are managing their company from Estonia may apply for a residence permit for up to 5 years, thus allowing them to have a business presence for longer periods of time if they choose.

Tax free acquisition of transportation and real property

Estonian companies can purchase transportation and real property without taxation which can be useful for businesses that are asset managers or plan to operate in Estonia.

Double tax treaties

With double taxation avoidance agreements with 59 countries, Estonia reduces the risk of being taxed twice on the same income and scope for international entrepreneurs.

Brand and international recognition

Estonia has a reputation for innovation and digital readiness which can increase the reputation and credibility of businesses registered in Estonia when dealing internationally with customers, partners and banks.

How long does it take to register company in Estonia?

Tetra Consultants will complete the process to register company in Estonia within 1 week. After receiving due diligence documents of the directors and shareholders, our team will search for the availability of your preferred company name and prepare all required incorporation documents.
Throughout the Estonia company incorporation process, you will not be required to travel overseas.
After Tetra Consultants has registered your Estonia company, you can expect to receive the documents of your new company including your Estonia company registration certificate, Memorandum and Articles of Association as well as a register of directors and shareholders.
Within 4 weeks upon the formation of Estonia company, we will open a corporate bank account with your bank of choice.
As such, you can expect your company to be fully operational and ready for business within 5 weeks from engaging Tetra Consultants.

Requirements to register company in Estonia

The minimum requirements for an Estonia limited liability company are:

1 shareholder of any nationality
1 director of any nationality
1 local company secretary
An Estonia registered office address
Minimum paid-up capital depends on the type of business activity and business entity

What types of business establishment are there to consider when register company in Estonia?

Before you advance to set up Estonian company, it is essential for you to consider the type of business structure to form. There are many types of business structures in Estonia, each with its own distinctive features. Some areas of differences include the availability of personal liability protection, tax ramifications, ownership and management flexibility as well as compliance requirements.

Tetra Consultants has consolidated the requirements to set up these entities.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Otherwise known as a private limited company, it is commonly adopted by foreign investors and entrepreneurs. An Estonian limited liability company is a separate legal entity distinct from its directors and shareholders. This protects directors and shareholders from the debts and liabilities incurred by the company.
To set up a limited liability company in Estonia, you will require a minimum capital of €2,500. There should at least be one director of any nationality and one shareholder of any nationality. A local registered office and company secretary is also required to create a limited company.

Joint Stock Company

Otherwise known as a public limited company, this corporate structure is generally more suitable for those who are looking to expand their company. By incorporating a joint-stock company, shares can be bought and sold freely in the market.
To set up a joint-stock company, you need to meet a minimum capital of €25,000. This includes both cash and property contribution. One or more persons can be registered as shareholders of the company. There is no requirement for the shareholder or founder to be a resident of Estonia.
In terms of its managing body, the company should have both a management board and a supervisory board. The board should include one or more directors with minimally 50% of the board members being residents in the European Union. A statutory auditor is also mandated to be appointed.

General Partnership

Jointly shared between two or more partners, general partners and the business are seen as one and the same by the law. In the case of a winding up, the general partners can be personally liable for all debts and obligations incurred by the business. Unlike other countries, general partnership in Estonia is considered a legal entity.
There is no minimum capital requirement stipulated by the law.

Limited Partnership

Limited partnerships share characteristics with a general partnership and a limited liability company. They are made up of both general and limited partners. General partners are owners entitled to manage the company.
As such, general partners also bear unlimited liability for the company’s debts and obligations. Meanwhile, limited partners are not entitled to manage the company. Their liability only extends to the amount of their investment.
Under Estonian laws, there is no minimum capital requirement.

Branch Office

This corporate structure is most suitable for foreign legal entities intending to expand into Estonia. Without a separate legal entity, the debts and obligations incurred by the branch office will be directed to the parent company.
The Estonian laws also require that a local resident director or representative is appointed. Otherwise, the branch should appoint at least one director who is a resident of Estonia.
To register, a representative of the foreign company will have to apply with the Estonian Tax and Customs Board.

Representative Office

Legally permitted for the sole purpose of conducting market research or promoting the parent company, a representative office is not a legal entity. Under the law, it is not allowed to sign contracts, sales agreement or earn Estonia-sourced income.

How to register company in Estonia?

Step 1: Choosing an optimum company structure

Prior to beginning to register company in Estonia, it is important to decide on the business entity type that best suits your needs. A private limited company (PLC) is the most popular option for our clients as it offers ease of incorporation, continuity and most importantly protection from personal liability. Hence, the steps below are with reference to starting a PLC company.
The procedures to establish a public company are similar. However it requires the additional appointment of a supervisory board and auditor and has a higher minimum share capital of €25,000 instead.
Before the start of the engagement, Tetra Consultants will fully understand your needs before recommending the most optimum company structure in Estonia. Some considerations include the type of business activity, tax obligations and nationalities of shareholders and directors.

Step 2: Establishing a company name

The proposed name must be submitted to the Estonia company registrar, the Centre of Registers and Information Systems (RIK) for approval. It must use only Latin characters and may not contain special characters.
Tetra Consultants will help to ensure your name is unique and distinguishable by conducting a name search on the Estonia company registration portal so as prevent any delays to registration.

Step 3: Local address and contact person

Your company will also need a legal address in Estonia and a local contact person. This person will merely be a messenger and will not have any decision making power. Tetra Consultants is able to provide both an Estonia virtual address and local contact person for those who require it to register company in Estonia.

Step 4: Register company in Estonia online

You can choose to register company in Estonia in one of two ways, either through the online portal, or having a notary submit the Estonia company registration document on your behalf. The online portal will require either an Estonian ID or e-resident card, or a select list of EU member states.
In addition to the ID card, the only other documents required for business establishment are the completed articles of association, making it one of the easiest places to open company in Europe.
The application should also specify the nature of their business activity that is expected to be their main source of income.

Step 5: Depositing paid up capital and opening corporate bank account

The minimum paid capital of €2,500 for a PLC can be paid after registration is complete and can even be paid in instalments. Firms can choose to use bank accounts in Estonia, or within the jurisdiction of the European Economic Area. Tetra Consultants works with an extensive network of banks, and can help you in opening a local or international corporate bank account in the jurisdiction of your choice.
Firms can even opt to use a fintech company. Having multiple and flexible payment options makes starting a private company in Estonia even more convenient than it already is.
Proof of payment being made will then need to be submitted to the RIK for verification. The statement should be in Estonian and digitally signed, or otherwise notarized to be as such. Tetra Consultants is also able to secure translation and notarization services for your company if needed.
At this point of time, firms can also apply for any other required licenses, such as the Estonia cryptocurrency license.

Step 6: Accounting and financial reporting requirements

Accounting and bookkeeping standards in Estonia are mainly defined by:
- the Accounting Act of the Republic of Estonia
- the guidelines issued by the Accounting Board of the Republic of Estonia.
In addition to staying compliant to these standards, financial statements should also be prepared in accordance with either the local Estonian GAAP or the EU’s IFRS.
Annual reports and annual accounts should be submitted to RIK within six months after the end of the financial year. The exact scope of the annual accounts and audit or review requirements depends on the size of the company, which is measured by revenue, number of employees and value of assets controlled.

Step 7: Tax and Employee registration

Tax will only need to be paid on distributed profits at a rate of 14 to 20% depending on how dividends are paid out. Reinvestment of earnings will not be taxed.
We will assist in the creation of an e-services account with the Estonian Tax and Customs Board which will grant online access to the e-Tax and e-Customs portal. As another added convenience, businesses do not need to register separately for tax since their tax identification number will follow their company registration number.
Through this portal, you will be able to register your employees in the employment register, register for value added tax (VAT) as well as pay and submit your tax.
- VAT registration is only compulsory for firms that have an annual taxable supply exceeding or expected to exceed €40,000.
Tetra Consultants also provides annual accounting and tax solutions for our clients.

Steps for Ongoing Compliance Post-Registration

Adherence to bookkeeping and accounting standards

Companies must adhere to bookkeeping and accounting standards to maintain accurate records and prepare annual financial statements. Tetra Consultants has a range of comprehensive bookkeeping and accounting services specific to your business to ensure records are kept and financial records are prepared according to Estonian Accounting Standards.

Corporate tax filings in Estonia

Companies in Estonia are required to file annual corporate tax returns. Even if tax is incurred only on distributed profit, companies must still adhere to local tax law. Tetra Consultants’ team of tax professionals will prepare your corporate tax filings as well as compute tax liability and make timely and duly submissions to the Estonian Tax and Customs Board so you are compliant.

VAT registration and filings

If your turnover is above the VAT threshold or if you register voluntarily then you must register for VAT and undertake VAT filings. Tetra Consultants helps with VAT registration with the Estonian Tax and Customs Board and VAT filings and compliance requirements.

Submitting an annual report to the Estonian Centre of Registers, and Information Systems (RIK)

Each year a company must submit a report stating its financial performance and state of the company. Tetra Consultants will ensure that your annual reports are duly and accurately prepared and submitted on time so that you can maintain your good standing.

Adhering to audit requirements

If a company surpasses certain turnover, balance sheet or employee thresholds an audit will need to be conducted. Tetra Consultants works with qualified auditors to facilitate the audit process and fulfill audit requirements in accordance with Estonian audit regulations.

Updating company information and filings

Whenever there is a change in company information such as directors, shareholders or registered office, this change needs to be reported to authorities. Tetra Consultants will perform these filings and changes as necessary, preparing the required documentation for submission keeping your company up to date.

Regulatory compliance and risk management consulting

As regulations regularly evolve, businesses need to receive continual regulatory compliance consulting, to understand the regulations, build systems and frameworks for compliance, undertake training for employees, conduct various risk assessments for several aspects of the business in accordance with its activities. Tetra Consultants can assist with regulatory compliance consulting that is tailored as needed in consideration of your company’s activities.

Managing licenses and special permits

If your business requires special licenses, for example for cryptocurrency, Tetra Consultants can assist with managing all aspects related to the license and compliance monitoring including renewals, compliance audits and filing reports in accordance with relevant regulations ensuring that the business is operating as expected with valid licenses.

Corporate governance support

Tetra Consultants can assist your company with corporate governance by helping with the corporation’s corporate governance requirements, such as facilitating board meetings, taking minutes and ensuring adherence to Estonian corporate law and internal policies.

Documentation required to register company in Estonia

Passport or national ID card of all founders and board members. For e-Residents, the digital e-Residency card is used for identification and digital signing.

The company’s constitutional document outlining its rules, shareholder rights, and management structure. This must be prepared and submitted during registration.

Evidence that the proposed company name is unique and complies with Estonian naming rules. This is usually verified through a name search on the Estonia company registration portal.

Full names, birth dates or personal codes, nationality, and contact information of shareholders and directors. Names must match exactly as in their identification documents.

Proof of a registered office address within Estonia. This can be a physical or virtual office address provided by a local service provider.

If required, a local contact person’s consent to act as the company’s official contact in Estonia. This person does not have decision-making power but receives official correspondence.

Details of the share capital amount and payment confirmation if applicable. Minimum share capital requirements depend on the company type and can sometimes be deferred.

Identification and declaration of the company’s UBO(s), either via an official UBO registry excerpt or a filled UBO form if no registry exists.

For foreign legal entities registering a branch or subsidiary, notarized registry extracts, articles of association, and proof of directors’ and shareholders’ details are required.

Notarized and apostilled copies of identification documents, proof of address, and possibly translated documents if not in English, Estonian, or Russian.

For online registration, all persons involved must be able to digitally sign documents using an Estonian ID card, e-Residency card, or other accepted digital IDs.

Common Challenges When Register Company in the Estonia

Legal address

It is a legal requirement for every Estonian company to have a legal address in Estonia for receiving correspondence. This can be challenging for a non-resident entrepreneur as correspondence may not be addressed to an individual. Tetra Consultants provides a service to offer a virtual office address in Estonia and local contact person service, so that you can fulfil this legal requirement without having a direct presence.

Corporate bank account

Estonia is also challenging when opening a bank account as your existing nationality (your country of residence) is likely to present challenges because you are non-resident. Due to the strict documentation and documentation of substance requirements Tetra Consultants engages a robust network of banking partners and fintech options to assist clients to establish corporate bank accounts both locally and internationally while attempted to ease the incorporation process and improve the chances for a successful application.

Choosing a company structure

Choosing a company structure also requires careful consideration in relation to potential tax consequences, limited liability for directors and stakeholders and meeting compliance. Tetra Consultants is experienced with interpreting tax law, liability and compliance and so provides expert licensed advice which targets your business needs in regard to company structure and your ultimate objective.

Company name approval and registration process

First and foremost, it is essential to obtain approval for your company name, and ensure it is Estonian regulation compliant and unique from any other company on the Estonian business registry. This is critical through the entire registration process as delays are avoidable and will happen if the name or names collectively aren’t taken the proper precautions. Thankfully, Tetra Consultants conducts name searches diligently and will apply the name to the registration process online to expedite the process and ensure it is submitted and approved on time.

Capital allocation and documentation

The minimal share capital of €2,500 can be fully deferred but instead it must be properly documented and also reported. Tetra Consultants is able to navigate the capital payment processes and then if necessary the notary or document translator services for you to ensure compliance to the Estonian legal requirements.

Navigating the e-residency application

In order to allow for remote company management, it is essential to obtain e-Residency, but the e-Residency application can be complex in terms of verification of identity and obscurity of the applicant, though it is not explicitly stipulated therein, Tetra Consultants will advise and help their clients, to further ensure you receive e-Residency fairly easily.

Accounting and tax reporting

Estonian tax law and reporting can be complicated for foreigners. Tetra Consultants fils the gap in Estonian accounting and taxation, ensuring you will not only meet compliance on all accounting and tax owing but also develop the best taxation strategy based on the Estonian very attractive tax model.

Handling official correspondence and legal compliance

Omitted legal notifications can result in penalties or delays. Tetra Consultants is your local contact and will handle all official correspondence, and keep you advised of any regulatory changes and dates to comply with obligations.

Dealing with language and legal barriers

The Estonian legal and bureaucratic processes can be difficult for those who do not speak the language. Tetra Consultants can offer professional legal consultation and document checking services in order to avoid costly misunderstandings and to make registration occur more readily and faster.

Types of business license

Financial services license

Businesses engaged in financial services including banking and trust and company services, pawnbroking, virtual currency services (including cryptocurrencies), and trading goods like precious metals must obtain a license. In Estonia, these licenses are issued by the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and compliance with requirements related to the company’s management and anti-money laundering legislation is strictly required.

Construction license

If a business conducts construction related activities including building, design, site investigation, supervision by an owner, or assessments by an expert, the business needs to submit a notice of economic activity or obtain a license. This area requires specific regulated vocational qualifications and certified personnel to conduct business lawfully.

Tourism license

Companies that are tourism undertakings including travel package retailers and tour operators must obtain the correct license before commencing trading to be in compliance with the law.

Transport license

Companies that provide transport services will need to acquire the relevant permits or licenses according to Estonian law.

Sale of food and beverages license

Companies that are engaged in the business of selling food and beverages must obtain different types of licenses related to health and safety standards and must obtain these before the company begins operations.

Mediation and temporary labour workforce license

Companies that are engaged in the business of mediating employees or offering temporary labour force services through rental employees must acquire specific licenses or registrations for that service to legally conduct business.

Other license regulated sectors

Licenses will also be required in several other sectors of the economy, including banking, telecommunications, selling alcohol and tobacco, medicine, gas and energy, environmental permits regarding natural resource extraction and management of the environment.

Why register company in Estonia?

Before you begin to register company in Estonia, it is important to understand the business landscape of the jurisdiction. This is to ensure that your newly established entity will be able to safely and legally conduct business while striving towards your long-term business goals.

Political

According to Transparency International’s 2020 Corruption Perceptions Index, Estonia is ranked 17^th among 180 countries when it comes to public sector corruption. This highlights that Estonia is a relatively corruption free country.
In 2005, Estonia was one of the first countries in the European Union to allow its citizens to vote online. Although this has been refuted by many countries due to the reasonings of political cynicism, Estonia’s support for online voting can be said to facilitate greater political participation among its citizens.
In its controversial 2019 parliamentary elections, Estonia has included the populist, right-wing EKRE party in government. Campaigning largely on Eurosceptic and anti-immigration agenda, the party has also made controversial statements undermining the independence of the judiciary as well as the freedom of the media.

Economic

Estonia’s EU membership has allowed it to leverage on various benefits such as the free movement of goods and services which has strengthened its economy.
According to the 2021 Index of Economic Freedom, Estonia is ranked the 8^th most free economy in the world.
Estonia’s rigid labour regulation policies have said to be an impediment to its productivity growth.

Social

While Estonian remains the official language in Estonia, the people of Estonia are relatively proficient in English. As reported by Education First’s 2020 English Proficiency Index, Estonia is ranked 25^th among 100 countries.
According to Statista, Estonia’s unemployment rate has seen a downward trend since 2010, with the most recent unemployment rate being 5.38% in 2020.
According to Statistics Estonia, in 2019, 7% of the Estonian population is living at risk of poverty.

Technological

Estonia is among the most digitally advanced nations in the world. Its e-Residency program allows you to do business with anyone around the world.
Launching the Presidency Gateway, the portal is created for presidency events. This technological solution offers document depository, agenda, logistical management system and digital tools to facilitate polls during a presidency event. The solution is said to have revolutionized all future presidency events not just in Estonia but in other countries as well.
Its capital, Tallinn, is the birthplace of many tech giants such as Skype and Transferwise. Tallinn also has the higher number of start-ups per capita in Europe. On a national level, Estonia is also ranked 3^rd in Europe.

Legal

Estonia is one of the only few countries that has regulated cryptocurrency licenses. The Estonia Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has implemented regulations that allow businesses to set up cryptocurrency exchange and wallets in the country.
Estonia legal environment generally favours and promotes entrepreneurship. Foreign investors are entitled to equal rights and obligations as per given to local entrepreneurs.
According to Invest in Estonia, Estonia is ranked 2^nd among the European countries when it comes to managing court proceedings.

How will Tetra Consultants help you to Register company in Estonia?

If you now want to expand the services of Tetra Consultants as your incorporated entity, obviously it would be a huge advantage to have an entity such as Tetra Consultants (their essence) incorporate your activities and have you (I assume) get it up and going so that you have the chance to focus on growing your business while we obtained and incorporated your services. Tetra Consultants encompasses everything you need and provides proper individualized advice on your corporate structure, share capital, and if it requires licensing. What we do at Tetra Consultants is carry the heavy lifting for you, including reservation of your company name, updated corporate records, prepare and have your incorporate documents prepared and notarized, legal address and a local contact person if needed, we even assist with opening corporate bank accounts through our banking network of lending partners – even fintech’s, and everything incorporated will provide you with lots of flexibility.

One of our values is transparency. We keep you informed, showing you proper breakdowns of expenses to prevent hidden fees and costs. We will serve your company with accounting, tax filings, compliance and will keep your business operational while you run it and comply with Estonian regulations. With Tetra Consultants, you gain a reliable partner committed to delivering your Estonia company fully operational within a stipulated timeframe, backed by expert guidance and comprehensive support.

Cost to setup Estonia company

When you are working with Tetra Consultants to set up your company in Estonia, you will quickly discover that we are fully transparent and client-focused in our approach. This starts with a clear explanation of all the costs associated with the process including a breakdown of all costs so that there is no confusion or hidden fees. We will take you step by step through the registration process from reserving your company name to incorporation to local address and bank account opening.

Our Team of experts has streamlined the process for you to simplify your journey, with total transparency in pricing and compliance, including all documentation, which allows you to see the process of registering your Estonia company clearly. Tetra Consultants gives clients a one stop shop for handling all of the legal and administrative requirements while allowing clients the peace of mind to grow their business.

Looking to register company in Estonia?

Tetra Consultants will be your one-stop solution for you to register company in Estonia. Our services include company formation, registered agent, registered address and business bank account opening.
Contact us to find out more about how to establish a company in Estonia. Our team of experts will revert within the next 24 hours.

Find out more!

Contact us to find out more about company incorporation in Estonia. Our team of experts will revert within the next 24 hours.

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