Guidelines for Learners Attending On-Campus Classes

If you are planning to travel from another country to attend on-campus tutoring and classes, it is imperative that you fully understand and comply with the entry requirements set by the Estonian immigration authorities. As a participant, it is solely your responsibility to ensure that you meet all applicable requirements. Non-compliance may result in your inability to enter Estonia.

Please note that, as your course provider, we have no influence over the immigration process and cannot assume any responsibility for your visa or entry status. It is, therefore, essential that you thoroughly familiarise yourself with all relevant regulations concerning entry into the country.

If you do not have visa-free access to Estonia, you will be required to obtain an appropriate visa. While the following guidelines are provided to offer general assistance, it is your responsibility to stay informed of any updates or changes issued by the Estonian immigration authorities or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We strongly advise that you consult with the relevant immigration authorities prior to initiating your visa application process.

Step 1: Determine the ‘Purpose’ of your entry to Estonia

When filling out your ‘Visa Application’, select ‘Other’ as the purpose of your journey, rather than ‘Study’, to align with the nature of the Programmes offered.

Step 2: Select the appropriate visa based on course duration

The type of visa you need will depend on the length of your Programme:

Programmes up to 90 days: Apply for a C-type Schengen visa.
Programmes over 90 days (e.g., 6 months): Apply for a D-type long-term visa.

Step 3: Understand the visa requirements for short-term Programmes (up to 90 days)

Fill out and print the applicable online visa form: C-type Schengen visa.
Where to submit your application:
- Applications should generally be submitted at the Estonian Embassy in your home country. If there is no Estonian Embassy available, you may apply through another embassy authorised to handle Estonian representation.
- It is strongly recommended that you verify with the embassy whether they accept C-type visa applications on behalf of Estonia, as this can vary by location.
- In many cases, the C-type visa application process is facilitated through VFS Global. We highly recommend checking with VFS Global to confirm whether they are authorised to handle C-type visa applications for Estonia in your region.
Required Documents:
- Valid Passport: Issued within the last 10 years, with at least 3 months validity beyond your intended return date, and at least two blank pages. Include any old passports (or proof of cancellation if not available).
- Visa Application Form: Completed and signed. For minors, the form must be signed twice by a legal guardian (along with proof of guardianship, such as an apostilled birth certificate or custody documents).
- Photograph: One recent (not older than 6 months) passport-sized photo (35mm x 45mm) with a white background.
- Travel Health Insurance: Valid for all Schengen countries, covering a minimum of €30,000 for the entire duration of your stay. It is strongly advised that you consult with the migration authorities in advance to verify which insurance providers are recognised and accepted. Purchasing a policy from an unapproved insurance company may result in the rejection of your visa application. Thus, ensure the insurance meets the specific requirements set by the authorities before making any purchase.
- Proof of Accommodation:
  - Hotel reservations, rental agreements, or campus housing confirmations.
  - If staying with friends or family, include proof of sponsorship or private accommodation documentation.
- Proof of Means of Transport: Full Itinerary (with date, flight, place, country) and Flight return tickets (do not purchase tickets before obtaining the visa).
- Proof of Financial Means:
  - Evidence of sufficient funds, such as bank certificate (with bank official’s seal, signature and business card), demonstrating at least €70 per day (equivalent to €2,100 per month). Please note that this amount may vary depending on the number of dependents or family members accompanying you. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you consult the official migration authority to stay updated with the most current financial requirements.
  - Original bank statements for the last 3 months (with bank stamps/seals and signatures).
  - Income Tax Return receipts for the past 2 years.
  - Additional documents based on your employment status:
    - If you are Employed: Last 3 months’ salary slips and bank statements.
    - If you are Self-Employed/Business Owner: Business registration documents and bank statements.
    - If you are Retired: Pension statements for the last 3 months.
    - If you are Sponsored: Sponsor’s bank statements, proof of employment, and ITR receipts.
- Purpose of Journey: Confirmation and invitation letter from us (your course provider).
- Biometric Data: Fingerprints may be collected during the application process (children under 12 are exempt).
- Visa Fee: Payment proof must be submitted with your application.
- Additional documentation: The case handler may request extra documents as needed.

Step 4: Understand the visa requirements for long-term Programmes (Over 90 Days)

Fill out and print the applicable online visa form: D-type long-term visa.
Where to submit your application:
- D-type long-term applications should typically be submitted at the Estonian Embassy in your country of residence. If there is no Estonian Embassy in your country, you may need to travel to a neighbouring country where one is located.
- Before traveling to neighbouring country, it is strongly advised that you confirm with the embassy whether they process D-type visa applications for the specific passport you hold.

Required Documents:
- Travel document: Passport issued within the last 10 years, with at least two blank pages and 3 months validity beyond your intended departure date.
- Online visa application form: Fully completed and signed.
- Photograph: One recent colour photo (35mm x 45mm) that meets ICAO standards. ICAO requirement: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/system/files_en?file=2016-12/icao_photograph_guidelines_en.pdf
- Travel ‘Medical/Health Insurance’: Coverage for any medical expenses during your stay must be valid for the entire duration of the requested visa period. It is strongly advised that you consult with the migration authorities in advance to verify which insurance providers are recognised and accepted. Purchasing a policy from an unapproved insurance company may result in the rejection of your visa application. Thus, ensure the insurance meets the specific requirements set by the authorities before making any purchase.
- Proof of financial means: Evidence of sufficient funds, such as bank statements (with bank official’s seal, signature and business card), demonstrating at least €70 per day (equivalent to €2,100 per month). Please note that this amount may vary depending on the number of dependents or family members accompanying you. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you consult the official migration authority to stay updated with the most current financial requirements.
- Proof of Accommodation:
  - Hotel reservations, rental agreements, or campus housing confirmations.
  - If staying with friends or family, include proof of sponsorship or private accommodation documentation.
- Proof of Means of Transport: Full Itinerary (with date, flight, place, country) and Flight return tickets (do not purchase tickets before obtaining the visa).
- Purpose of Journey: Confirmation letter and invitation from us (your course provider).
- Biometric Data: Fingerprints will be collected during the application process (children under 12 are exempt).
- Visa Fee: Payment proof must be submitted with your application.
- Additional Documentation: The case handler may request extra documents as needed.

Step 5: Understand the Process

Gather Documents:
- Collect all the required documents.
- Fill out the online application form, print it, and sign it.
- Attach all necessary documents to the application form.
Schedule an Embassy Appointment:
- Book an appointment at the embassy or consulate for document submission.
Visit the Embassy:
- Bring all the required documents, including the originals and legalised/notarised/attested photocopies.
- Submit the attested copies to the embassy. The originals will be verified and returned to you after verification.
Wait for the Visa Decision:
- The embassy will process your application, and you will be informed of the decision.

Step 6: Accept the Final Note

These guidelines are provided to assist you in understanding the general visa application process. However, please be aware that visa regulations are subject to change. It is crucial that you confirm the most current requirements directly with the Estonian migration authorities or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before proceeding with your application.

Please note that the visa process is entirely separate from the admission and educational enrolment process. It can often be complex, emotionally taxing, and requires strict adherence to the criteria set by the immigration authorities. Obtaining a visa is not merely procedural; it requires demonstrating that your intention to enter, stay, or exit Estonia is legitimate and lawful. It is important to understand that no one can guarantee the approval of your visa or entry permit. The final decision rests with the immigration authorities, based on their assessment of your application and supporting documents. As such, you must take full responsibility for this process, including the investment of your time, effort, and financial resources.

The challenge of navigating this process rests with you, requiring thorough preparation and diligence. It is wise to plan ahead for both outcomes: consider your next steps in the event of a negative decision, as well as your course of action upon visa approval. By anticipating possible scenarios and preparing accordingly, you can significantly enhance your chances of success.