What paperwork do you need after moving to Estonia in 2026?

Finish the correct stay path before quality-of-life shopping. EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens register a right of residence by entering an Estonian address in the population register. Most third-country nationals need a residence permit from the PPA: Apply for a residence permit. Do not confuse that with e-Residency, which is a digital ID for non-residents and does not let you live in Estonia.

Secure housing a municipality will accept: How to rent a home and Register address. That step often creates your isikukood. Then apply for the ID card or residence card and activate Smart-ID or Mobile-ID so banks and portals work.

Get a local mobile number early for landlord calls, bank OTPs, and appointment SMS. Open a bank account once identity documents clear KYC. Keep private cover until Tervisekassa enrolment is active; choose the right interim policy in Choose health insurance. Employment registration drives social insurance and health cover for most workers.

Confirm tax residency and e-MTA access when payroll starts: File taxes. Tallinn residents who register correctly can personalise an Ühiskaart for free city buses and trams. Licence exchange, pets, and household goods follow their own desks at Transpordiamet, PTA, and EMTA Customs.