Welcome to our guide on starting a company in Estonia, a vibrant hub for entrepreneurship in the heart of the Baltics. In recent years, Estonia has gained a reputation as a startup-friendly nation, thanks to its progressive digital infrastructure, favourable business climate, and streamlined processes for company formation. Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or an international innovator looking to establish your presence in Europe, Estonia offers a range of advantages and opportunities for launching your venture. In this article, we’ll explore the steps involved in setting up a company in Estonia, key considerations to keep in mind, and why this Baltic gem is an attractive destination for aspiring business owners.
Which company type to choose?
90% of the companies in Estonian Business Register are private limited companies (OÜ).
There are many different company types – private limited company (OÜ), public limited company (AS), branch of a foreign company, sole proprietorship (FIE) non-profit organisation (MTÜ) and many more.
Private limited company is the most common type, as it has simple structure, flexible management rules and shelters the founders from liability from business activities.
What to prepare for smooth registration?
1. select business name
You can check if name you would like to use is available here
2. select field of activity
You need to pick one main activity and the list is available here
3. At least one founder and director is required
4. Think how much capital is needed to start the business.
How much does it cost?
Quickest and easiest way is to register online using e-residency card.
1Office has several starting packages and our fees include state fees.
Starting package for single founder company:
https://1office.co/estonia/product/start-a-company-in-estonia-start-package/
Starting package for multiple founder company:
https://1office.co/estonia/product/starting-package-for-e-residents/
If you are not an e-resident, you have two options:
• You can travel to Estonia and sign company registration documents in notary’s office, or
• You can authorize 1Office lawyer to sign registration documents on your behalf.
Registration via notary costs more than online registration, as it requires several notarized documents and possibly translations into Estonian.
1Office has suitable package available, and it includes state fees and notary fees in Estonia:
https://1office.co/estonia/product/starting-package-for-non-residents-remotely-in-notarys-office/
How long does it take?
It takes 1 day to register the company online.
Registration via notary takes 5 days from submitting all documents.
