Company registration in Estonia
Company registration in Estonia is the process of officially establishing and registering a business in the Estonian legal system. In this process, a company becomes a legally recognised entity that has rights and obligations to the state and other members of the business community.
Registration of a company in Estonia is a popular and effective way for entrepreneurs from all over the world to start a business in the European Union. Thanks to the simple registration procedure, attractive tax regime and high level of digital services, Estonia has become one of the most attractive countries for setting up a company, especially for startups and technology companies. Thanks to e-government, the registration process can be carried out remotely, which makes this country an ideal place for international businessmen. In this text, we will look at the main stages of registering a company in Estonia, as well as important aspects that need to be taken into account for a successful start-up of a business in this country.
Legal stages of company registration in Estonia
This is a process that includes several important legal stages:
- Consultation and preparation: the lawyer will consult with the client to understand their needs and objectives and provide information about the different types of companies in Estonia, their advantages and disadvantages, how company registration in Estonia takes place. They will help the client to choose the most suitable type of company and prepare the necessary documents for registration.
- Document preparation: The lawyer can assist the client in preparing all the necessary documents for company registration, such as articles of association, agreements between the founders, documents on the appointment of the director and so on. They can also check all documents for compliance with the requirements of Estonian law.
- Representation of the client's interests: The lawyer can act as the client's representative before Estonian administrative authorities, including the Trade Register, and ensure that the entire registration process goes smoothly and in accordance with the law.
- Assistance in resolving legal issues: During the registration process, various legal issues may arise related to the choice of type of company, rights of founders and directors, taxation and other aspects. The lawyer will help the client to understand these issues and make informed decisions.
- Post-incorporation support: After the company is incorporated, the lawyer can continue to provide support to the client, such as providing advice on company management, taxation, corporate law and other matters.
The legal stages of registering a company in Estonia require a careful approach to each of the steps. Involving a lawyer allows you to minimize possible risks and ensure the legality of all actions, from consultations to representation before administrative authorities. This allows you to focus on developing your business without worrying about legal details.
Under what conditions can the service of opening a company in Estonia be provided?
It is important to know that each stage requires compliance with the requirements that determine whether the service can be provided:
- Presence of necessary documents and information: The client must provide the lawyer with all necessary documents and information for company registration, including passport data of founders, company address, choice of company type, etc.
- Client's ability to pay for the services: The client must be willing to pay for the lawyer's services for his professional assistance in the company registration process.
- Compliance with the law: The client must act in accordance with the Estonian law and provide the lawyer with reliable information about the registration of a person's company in Estonia. The lawyer may refuse to provide services if the client violates the law or provides false information.
Preparation for registration requires careful attention to all of the above conditions.
Under what conditions can the service of opening a company in Estonia not be provided?

Failure to provide required documents and information: If the client fails to provide all the required documents and information, the service may be temporarily suspended until they are provided.

Non-compliance with legal requirements: If the client's activities or plans violate Estonian law, the lawyer may refuse to provide the service or terminate the service.

Conflict of interest: If the lawyer discovers a conflict of interest or other ethical issues, this may also be a reason to deny the service.
How to independently establish a company in Estonia?
Knowing the key aspects will allow you to successfully complete all stages independently:
- Research information: Do your research and look up information about registering a company in Estonia. Many resources, including official websites, provide detailed instructions and guides on this topic.
- Choosing the type of company: Determine which type of company best suits your needs. This may be an OÜ, AS or another type of company, depending on your goals and requirements. Document preparation: Gather all the documents you need to register the company. This may include the company's articles of association, passport details of the founders and director, company address and other documents.
- Filling out the application: Fill out the company registration application using the online platform or by contacting the relevant administrative authorities. Make sure you provide all the required information correctly.
- Payment of fees: Pay the registration fees associated with the incorporation of your company. Check the fees and available payment methods.
- Waiting for a decision: After submitting your application, you will have to wait for a decision from the administrative authorities. During this period you can continue to prepare for the launch of your business.
- Obtaining the certificate of incorporation: Once your application has been approved, you will receive a certificate of incorporation for your company. This means that your company is now officially registered and can begin to operate.
- Tax registration: After registering your company, don't forget to register with the Estonian Tax Office and get the necessary tax numbers and identification codes.
Registration of a company in Estonia on your own is quite possible if you approach studying all stages correctly. Performing each of the steps in accordance with the instructions will allow you to successfully register a company and avoid legal mistakes.
Frequently asked questions about establishing a company in Estonia
Question
Registering a company in Estonia via the internet, is it possible?
Answer
Yes, it is possible to register a company in Estonia via the internet. Estonia offers the e-Residency programme, which allows foreign nationals to register and manage companies remotely via the internet. Here's how it works: Obtaining e-Residency (e-Residency): First, you need to apply for e-Residency through the official website of the e-Residency programme. Once your application is approved, you will receive an electronic ID card that will allow you to authenticate and sign documents online. Company Registration: Once you have received your e-Residency, you can use your e-ID card to apply for company registration online. This can be done on the official portal of the Estonian administrative authorities. Filling out the application: Fill out the online company registration application form by providing necessary information such as articles of association, passport details of the founders and director and other details about the company. Payment of fees: Pay the required registration fees for company registration through the online platform. Waiting for the decision and receiving the certificate of incorporation: After submitting the application, you will have to wait for the administrative authorities to review your application. Once approved, you will receive a company registration certificate which will be a valid document.
Question
Is it possible to register a company online in Estonia?
Answer
Yes, it is possible to register a company online in Estonia. Estonia provides convenient and efficient online services for company registration, making the process more accessible and convenient for entrepreneurs from anywhere in the world. The process of registering a company online usually involves the following steps: Document preparation: Gather all the necessary documents to register a company, including articles of association, passport details of the founders and director, and the company address. Submitting the application: Fill in the online company registration application form on the official website of the Estonian administrative authorities. Usually, electronic identification is used for this, e.g. through the e-Residency programme (e-Residency) or the account of the Estonian Tax and Customs Board. Signing documents: If required, electronically sign all necessary documents using an electronic identification system. This may include signing the company's articles of association and other legally binding documents. Payment of fees: Pay the company registration fees through the online platform. Waiting for a decision: After submitting your application, you will have to wait for the administrative authorities to review your application. This process can take some time, usually a few weeks. Receiving the certificate of incorporation: Once your application is approved, you will receive a certificate of incorporation for your company.
Question
Business registration in Estonia, how much does it cost?
Answer
The cost of business registration in Estonia can vary depending on several factors such as the type of company, the services selected and the rates of law firms or consultants. Unfortunately, I cannot provide a specific cost as it depends on individual circumstances. However, you should expect to pay the following costs: Registration fees: These are the fees charged by the Estonian state authorities for registering a company. The amount of these fees may vary depending on the type of company. Solicitor's or consultant's fees: If you seek help from a law firm or consultant, they may charge a fee for their services. Other costs: These may be additional costs such as translation of documents, liability insurance, etc.
What determines the cost of the service of registering a company in Estonia?
The price may depend on several factors. First, the cost is affected by the type of company you plan to register: limited liability (OÜ) or another type of legal entity. Also important are services that include accounting support, consulting, creation of statutory documents, as well as virtual office services, which are often provided for foreign entrepreneurs. Other factors that may affect the cost are the presence or absence of the need for a license for activity, the complexity of preparing documentation and the specifics of tax planning for your company. The cost may vary depending on the additional services selected, the registration deadlines and the level of support provided by professionals during the company registration.
ConclusionThe process of registering a company in Estonia includes several legal stages, from consultations and preparation of documents to representing the client's interests before state authorities. This is a complex but feasible process that requires compliance with local legislative requirements. For successful registration, it is important to prepare all the necessary documents and follow the established procedures. Legal assistance allows you to avoid mistakes that can lead to delays or refusal of registration, and also ensures security and legality at every stage of the process.