Company registration OÜ in Estonia for non-residents
We help non-residents set up an Estonian OÜ: advising on the right structure, managing the entire registration process, and supporting your business launch. We explain compliance requirements, operational specifics, and help you connect payment and financial solutions
WoBorders is an independent private consulting company. We provide advisory and administrative support and are not affiliated with any government authority or official registry
countries where we support company formation and international business growth
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clients who successfully launched their businesses abroad with our support
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Which businesses are suitable for Estonia?
OÜ can be used in different business models, both online and with a physical presence. However, it is most commonly chosen for international sales and service-based businesses. Below are the scenarios where this format provides the greatest value
Advantages of Estonia and an Estonian company OÜ for business
A European company for international operations: contracts, invoicing, and payments with EU and US clients within a transparent and business-friendly jurisdiction
Company setup and ongoing management can be handled fully online through e-Residency
Ukrainians are among the most active users of the e-Residency program (source: e-Residency Dashboard)
Average time spent on tax administration is about 5 hours per year (compared to around 37 hours in the EU)
Estonia receives high ratings for the quality of its business environment and digital services (Business Ready, 2024)
Have questions about company registration? Contact us
Taxation and accounting for Estonian companies
Estonia has one of the simplest tax systems in Europe. Below are the key taxes and reporting requirements for Estonian companies. The applicable rules depend on your turnover, business structure, and the owner’s tax residency.
Which company structure should you choose for your business in Estonia?
Non-residents can choose from several legal forms. Below is a brief overview of their key features and typical use cases. In most cases, OÜ is the optimal structure for non-residents
OÜ (Osaühing) — Private Limited Company.
The most common structure for small and mid-sized businesses. Comparable to a classic LLC or to a Polish Limited Liability Company.:
– Share capital: starting from €0 (may be contributed later)
– Founders: 1 or more (individuals or legal entities)
– Liability limited to share capital (no personal liability)
– Most popular choice for e-Residency
Best fit for online businesses, IT/SaaS, consulting, freelancers, and investment projects.
AS (Aktsiaselts) — a joint-stock company.
Most popular form for small and medium-sized businesses, equivalent to a Limited Liability Company:
– Minimum share capital: €25 000
– Founders: 1 or more (individuals or legal entities)
– Supervisory board required
– Can raise capital through the issuance of shares (including public listing)
– Requires more detailed financial reporting
AS is best suited for large companies, holdings, or businesses planning an IPO.
TÜ (Täisühing) — a general partnership.
Used rarely in modern business practice. An equivalent of a General Partnership.
– Formed by two or more partners
– Partners have unlimited personal liability
Best for partnerships where limited liability is not required.
UÜ (Usaldusühing) — a limited partnership.
Analog of classic Limited Partnership:
– Established by two or more partners
– Has two categories of partners: limited partners (liable only within the amount of their contribution) and general partners (with full personal liability).
– No minimum capital requirement
Suitable for passive investors who finance the business without participating in operational management and without assuming full liability.
What is the best way to register a business in Estonia?
Not sure which option is right for you?
Get a free consultation on opening an OÜ in Estonia
Stages of company registration in Estonia
The exact registration process depends on the founders’ structure, your business model, and the requirements of the relevant authorities or financial institutions. In most cases, registration takes 1–5 business days, depending on the chosen method
Pricing and packages for company registration in Estonia
The cost of company registration via e-Residency starts from €950, while notarial registration in Estonia starts from €1,800. However, the final price depends on the chosen incorporation method and your business model. Below are the registration packages available through e-Residency
BASIC
Best for entrepreneurs exploring international operations through Hong Kong
- Initial consultation (30 min)
- Assistance with opening a Payoneer account
- Company name availability check
- Turnkey company registration with a registered address for 1 year (including state and administrative fees)
STANDARD
Best option for companies working internationally. Most popular choice
- Everything included in the Basic package, plus:
- Support with obtaining e-Residency
- Advice and assistance with VAT registration (if needed)
- Tax and legal support (3 hours)
PRO
For companies with a complex structure or higher tax risks
- Everything included in the Basic and Standard packages, plus:
- CFC notification submission for Ukrainian residents
- Extended support (6 hours)
- Support on reporting and tax risk matters
We will help you choose the registration format and estimate the cost
Your consultant
Ivan Chebotarov
CEO & co-Founder
Describe your request
We usually reply within 15 minutes during business hours. No obligation
Frequently Asked Questions about Company Registration in Estonia
Is Estonia suitable for my business?
Estonia is suitable for IT, SaaS, e-commerce, consulting, and other international service businesses. It works best if most of your revenue comes from clients outside the country. For local or offline businesses, other jurisdictions may be more appropriate.
Can a non-resident open a company in Estonia?
Yes. A non-resident can register an OÜ remotely — either via e-Residency or through a notarial procedure, depending on the situation and ownership structure.
How long does OÜ registration take?
On average, OÜ registration takes 1–2 days with e-Residency. If registered through a notary, the process usually takes 1–2 weeks.
What taxes does an Estonian company pay?
If the company does not distribute dividends, no corporate income tax (CIT) is payable. When profits are distributed, a 22% tax applies. Dividend recipients may also be subject to personal income tax and social contributions, depending on their country of tax residency.
What are the share capital requirements?
For OÜ — from €0.01. The contribution can be postponed until dividend distribution. In practice, €2,500 is often used as a working benchmark.
For AS — €25,000. It must be paid during registration or within 12 months.
Can I open a bank or fintech account without traveling to Estonia?
Yes. Most non-residents open accounts with fintech providers (Payoneer, Wise, and other EMI institutions). A traditional bank account may also be possible, but the final decision depends on KYC and the nature of your business.
Do I need a local director or representative?
No. A foreigner can act as both director and shareholder. Usually, only a local contact person and a legal address are required for official communication and receipt of correspondence (this is typically provided by a service provider).
Can the company be managed fully online?
Yes. e-Residency allows you to sign documents, file reports, and manage your company online from any country.
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