Estland

Översikt

Joining NATO after the collapse of the Soviet Union and the EU in 2004, Estonia comprehensively improved its national security. The country quickly developed an advanced economy that has continued to prosper, despite major turmoil amid the global financial crisis of 2007-2009. The relationship with its massive neighbour Russia has dominated its history, forcing it to develop close ties with Scandinavian countries and the EU to balance out Russian power following its declaration of independence from the Soviet Union.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4 – 6 weeks prior to departing for Estonia.

Furthermore, although water is regarded as safe we do not recommend drinking tap water or consuming liquids from opened beverage containers or drinks with ice. Also please be careful in regards to food and beverages obtained from street vendors.

Travellers should have the following vaccines up to date: influenza, polio, chickenpox (or varicella), hepatitis A, typhoid, measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) and diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT). Furthermore, vaccinations against tuberculosis, hepatitis B, tick-borne encephalitis, and rabies are also recommended.

For citizens from eligible countries it is recommended to obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving as it entitles you to necessary emergency care in Estonia. However, the EHIC is not a substitute for medical and travel insurance. Therefore, it is recommended to acquire a comprehensive travel health insurance before travelling.

For non-EU citizens it is always advisable to acquire a comprehensive travel health insurance before travelling. Nevertheless, this insurance is unlikely to cover medical expenses at most facilities. Doctors and hospitals might expect payment in cash regardless of whether you have travel health insurance.

Pass

Visitors to Estonia must be travelling on a passport that is valid for at least three months from the intended date of departure from the Schengen area. EU nationals can enter using a valid national ID card.

Visum

Nationals of the member states of EU and EEA, such as German, French, and the British nationals do not need a visa to visit Estonia.

Other nationals, such as holders of an Australian, Canadian, and American passport do not need a visa to enter Estonia for stays of no more than three months in a six months period. For longer stays these nationals might need to apply for a residence permit from the Estonian citizenship and migration board.

Since visa information is subject to change we recommend checking for up to date information at the Embassy or Consulate of Estonia in your home country and applying for the right kind of visa (if necessary) far in advance, which normally takes approximately 5 to 10 working days but can take up to 30 days.