Page contentsPage contents Conditions You can apply to be a volunteer in Estonia if you take part in a voluntary service on the basis of an agreement with the entity/organisation responsible for the voluntary service.If you fulfil the conditions, you will be issued a residence permit or long-stay visa. Procedures Where and how to apply You may take part in a voluntary service in Estonia within the framework of a youth project or programme recognised by the Ministry of Education and Research.You can apply for a visa or residence permit at the foreign mission of Estonia or, in case you are legally in Estonia (e.g. with a visa), at the Police and Border Guard Board services.You can apply for a residence permit for study purposes in order to take part in a voluntary programme or register your short-term employment at the Police and Border Guard services. Short-term employment is permitted for up to 365 days within 455 consecutive days.Documents requiredAn identity document, a photo, a copy of the voluntary service agreement between the applicant and the agency or association where the purpose of the stay is to participate in a voluntary service within the framework of a youth project or programme recognised by the Ministry of Education and Research.Duration of validity of permits/visasAn Estonian long-stay visa may be issued for up to the 365 days. A residence permit may be issued for the duration of the intended stay in Estonia, but for not more than 5 years.AppealsYou will receive a written notification for registration or refusal of the registration of a short-term employment within 10 business days or acceptance of your application for residence permit within 60 days.Appeals can be brought to administrative courts or a challenge may be filed against decisions of refusal within ten days from the date of notification of the decision. A decision on the challenge may be contested in an administrative court within the same term. Rights Change of status You may change your status during your legal stay in Estonia and apply for a residence permit at the Police and Border Guard services.Family membersYour family members may accompany you and apply for a visa or a residence permit at the Estonian foreign representations or at the Police and Border Guard services under the same conditions as yours.Long-term residenceYou may apply for a residence permit as a long-term resident after five years of residence on the base of a residence permit. Links N/A
