The privileges and immunities of foreign diplomatic missions and consular posts and of their members in Estonia are governed by the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961 and by the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations of 1963.
Since changes have been made in the Estonian national legislation and in practices concerning foreign diplomatic missions and consular posts in Estonia (hereinafter referred to as “missions”), and because of the rotation of the members of missions, the State Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia has the pleasure to provide the missions with an updated version of the handbook entitled Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges in Estonia.
In addition to the privileges provided in the above mentioned conventions, certain rights may be granted under Estonian laws or bilateral and multilateral agreements.
STATE PROTOCOL DEPARTMENT STAFF
Mr Urmas Eigla, Director General /Chief of State Protocol
Diplomatic Protocol
- Ms Anneli Sooba, Counsellor – Visits and Ceremonies; Arriving Ambassadors; Military Attachés
- Mr Andry Ruumet, Desk Officer– Visits and Ceremonies
- Ms Elisabeth Laanemets, Desk Officer - Visits and Ceremonies; Honorary Consuls in Estonia
- Ms Annely Albert, Chief Specialist – Visits and Ceremonies; State Symbols; Flags
- Ms Maria Kitrish, Specialist - General questions
Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges
- Mr Sven Tölp, Director of the Division of Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges
- Ms Gerli Roos, Counsellor - Legal issues
- Ms Helen Naarits, Chief Specialist – Diplomatic Identity Cards; Embassies Security
- Ms Triin Mulla, Specialist - CD, CMD and AT Vehicles; Taxes and Duties; Embassies Immovable Property
- Ms Marika Jõks, Specialist - Diplomatic List, Firearms, Custom’s Duties
Phone hours:
Monday 15.00-16.00
Tuesday 10.00-12.00
Wednesday 15.00-16.00
Friday 10.00-12.00
Visiting address:
Lauteri Street 2, Tallinn
Tel: (+372) 637 7500; Fax: (+372) 637 7099
E-mail: [email protected]
Postal address:
State Protocol Department
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Islandi väljak 1, 15049 Tallinn
Republic of Estonia
1. Establishment of a Diplomatic Mission in Estonia
In accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, the establishment of diplomatic missions in a foreign state is based on mutual consent. Accordingly, countries wishing to establish a diplomatic mission (an Embassy or Consulate General) in Estonia, must obtain written approval from the Protocol Department. To request such approval, the sending state should submit a diplomatic note to the Protocol Department, providing the following information:
• Main functions and activities to be performed in relation to the demand for such services
• The initial number and rank of staff at the time of opening, as well for the next three years
• Planned timeline for the opening
In case the sending state has an Honorary Consul in Estonia, the Protocol Department applies principle that consular districts and locations of consular posts headed by honorary consuls from the same state or consular posts headed by a foreign mission and an honorary consul shall not overlap.
Once a foreign state has received permission to open a diplomatic mission and has determined its location, that is, the property to be used as its premises, it must obtain written approval to purchase or rent the property.
Non-residents not registered in the commercial register in Estonia and operating in Estonia through a permanent establishment or non-residents not having a permanent establishment but being employers in Estonia have to register with the Estonian Tax and Customs Board.
1.1. Acquisition of immovable property
Immovable property used by foreign missions consists of the land and buildings situated on the territory of the Republic of Estonia, as well as parts of buildings or constructions and the land belonging to them that a foreign mission uses, including the residence of the Head of Mission.
In order to acquire (by buying or renting) an immovable property in the Republic of Estonia, a mission must receive permission from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The foreign mission must notify the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in writing of its intent to acquire possession of an immovable property in Estonia and provide information on the location of the property, the person transferring the ownership and the contact details of the latter.
The owner or the landlord of the immovable property must present the digitally signed application with attachments to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which reviews the application and makes a decision within 30 days.
Permission to transfer an immovable property may not be given when the principle of reciprocity has not been taken into account, when it endangers the security of state, or if it is in conflict with public interest.
*Regulation No. 13 of the Foreign Minister of 20 December 2006
1.2. Bank account related issues
Banks provide basic payment account services to the missions and to the diplomats located in Estonia. Basic banking services include a payment account with basic features. A bank may refuse to open a basic payment account and to provide related payment services e.g. for reasons pertaining to money laundering regulations.
Concerning the account of the mission, in order to get a confirmation letter for the bank, a foreign mission should submit a Note Verbale to the State Protocol Department with a request to issue the confirmation letter. The Note should include information about the bank office and with contact details and the information about the authorized person. The State Protocol department will prepare the confirmation letter and forward it to the bank.
Concerning security matters please see Chapter 6
2. Applying Visas Prior to the First Arrival in Estonia
The employees of foreign mission and their family members from any third-country coming to Estonia outside EU for their assignment are subject to a long-stay visa obligation. Therefore, prior to first arrival in Estonia a long-stay (D) visa must be applied in a foreign representation of Estonia. In order to do so, a long-stay visa application and one colour photo (35x45mm) are submitted along with a verbal note to the Estonian foreign representation. Application form for a visa must be pre-filled online.
Additional information on how to apply for an Estonian visa and contact information for Estonian foreign representations can be found on the Ministry’s homepage.
The diplomatic and service identity card is the only legal basis for residence in Estonia for the personnel of diplomatic missions, representations of international organisations and other representations that are accredited in Estonia.
3. Head of Mission
3.1. Agrément
The sending State must ascertain that an agrément from the receiving State has been granted to the person proposed to be accredited as the Ambassador of the sending State.
The sending State shall address its request for an agrément to the State Protocol Department. The request should include the curriculum vitae of the designated Ambassador.
Having received the agrément, the sending State may accredit the designated Ambassador as its representative in Estonia. However, the Ambassador can officially assume his/her functions only after the presentation of his/her credentials to the President of the Republic.
3.2. Arrival
Prior to arrival, Missions shall inform the State Protocol Department of the new Ambassador’s arrival date and hour by verbal note. The note should also include information about courtesy calls that should be arranged. The State Protocol Department will arrange courtesy calls to Speaker of the Parliament, Prime Minister and in Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, if asked. Other courtesy calls should be arranged by Foreign Mission itself.
A new Ambassador will be met on arrival in Tallinn by a Protocol Officer, provided that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been notified of the date and hour of his/her arrival in advance, and that the Ambassador arrives by air, ship or train between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Monday to Friday.
On arrival within the period from Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., the State Protocol Department provides transport for the Ambassador and accompanying persons from airport to the hotel/embassy/residence, if necessary. On the day of presenting credentials transport will be provided from the hotel/embassy/residence to the Office of the President and back. All other needs for transport are arranged by the Visitor.
If the Ambassador is travelling by car, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will facilitate the Ambassador’s entry into Estonia by informing the border authorities of his/her arrival, provided that the Ministry has been notified of the date and hour of his/her passage across the border well in advance.
3.3. Presentation of Credentials
Before presenting his/her Credentials to the President of the Republic, the Ambassador shall present a copy of his/her Letter of Credence and a copy of his/her predecessor's Letter of Recall to the Chief of State Protocol.
The State Protocol Department will arrange the ceremony of the presentation of Credentials to the President of the Republic. The Ambassador may be accompanied by his/her spouse and one member of the Embassy’s diplomatic staff. Chargés d'Affaires en pied are accredited to the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Official meetings with Members of Government, except the Prime Minister, may take place after a copy of the Letter of Credence has been presented to the Chief of State Protocol. Official meetings with the Speaker of the Parliament and Prime Minister may take place only after Credentials have been presented to the President of the Republic. Before Credentials have been presented, it is however permitted to attend events where the Speaker of the Parliament and Prime Minister are present. An Ambassador shall not attend events where the President of the Republic is present before having presented his/her Credentials to the President of the Republic.
Public speeches and press statements are permitted after the presentation of Credentials to the President of the Republic.
3.4. Departure
Missions shall inform the State Protocol Department of the date of termination of office of Heads of Mission in Estonia by a verbal note. The note should also include information about the departure date and information about farewell calls that should be arranged.
The State Protocol Department will arrange farewell calls to the President of the Republic, Speaker of the Parliament, Prime Minister and in Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, respectively. Other farewell calls should be arranged by Foreign Mission itself.
Farewell calls for a non-resident Head of Mission are arranged to the officials in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Farewell call to the Minister of Foreign Affairs will be arranged if possible. Farewell visits to the President, Speaker of the Riigikogu (Parliament) and Prime Minister are not practiced.
Protocol Department does not provide courtesy services at the airport upon departure of the Ambassador.
3.5. Chargé d'Affaires ad interim
A Chargé d'Affaires ad interim may act provisionally as the Head of Mission. The name of the Chargé d'Affaires ad interim should be notified to the State Protocol Department by a verbal note. A Chargé d'Affaires ad interim shall be named if the post of a Head of Mission is vacant or a Head of Mission is for some reason unable to perform his/her functions.
Should a duly appointed chargé d’affaires, a.i. be required to leave the country for any reason, he or she cannot appoint anyone else as chargé. The appointment of a chargé under these circumstances must be in the form of a Note from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the country concerned addressed to either the State Protocol Department or to the Estonian Embassy accredited to the sending State.
In situations where none of the members of the diplomatic staff are present, a member of the administrative or technical staff may be designated as the person in charge of the current affairs of the mission.
3.6. Absence of the Head of Mission from the country of residence
Any absence of the Head of Mission from the country of residence, including official holidays — must be notified to the State Protocol Department by Verbal Note or e-mail.
It is not necessary to notify if the absence is of very short duration.
To ensure the smooth functioning of the diplomatic mission at all times, it is essential that the State Protocol Department be informed of the name of the person who will be in charge of the mission during the Head of Mission’s absence and who is authorized to sign official documents.
4. Members of the diplomatic staff
As a rule, general diplomatic status is only granted to accredited officials possession of a diplomatic passport who are assigned to the Mission and perform a diplomatic function, and according to the ranks and titles as foreseen in conventions and international custom.
4.1. Arrival and departure of employees to foreign missions
Pursuant to the provisions of Article 10 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, foreign missions are obliged to inform the Ministry of Foreign Affairs about the assignment of employees to foreign missions, as well as employees’ arrival, departure, promotion, and other changes.
In order to assign a Military Attaché and a Deputy or an Assistant Military Attaché, the prior consent of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is required.
Immunities and privileges outlined in the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and other international conventions and treaties according to the relevant category apply from the moment when the appointment is notified to the Ministry for Foreign Affairs.
In order to register a non-resident diplomat to the Tallinn Diplomatic List, please see point 2.1.2.
Missions should notify the Protocol Department within a week of the arrival of staff members by using the notification form.
Missions and other relevant institutions are requested to return the diplomatic and service cards of their departing staff and their family members to the Ministry immediately after the termination of their functions and before leaving Estonia. The State Protocol Department will not issue a new card to a mission /institution before the card of the predecessor is returned.
2.1. Conditions for Issuance of Diplomatic and Service Card
Conditions for the issuance of diplomatic and service card has been established by regulation by the Foreign Minister.
The State Protocol Department shall issue the following diplomatic cards:
- an A-series diplomatic card (blue) to the head of mission and their family members;
- a B-series diplomatic card (blue) to diplomats and their family members;
and service cards:
- a C-series service card (red) to members of administrative staff of mission and their family members;
- a D-series service card (green) to service staff of mission and their family members;
- an E-series service card (green) to private servants;
- an F-series service card (green) to Estonian citizens or permanent residents working in foreign missions (please see 2.4);
- a G-series service card (orange) to members and staff of the international organisation, NATO headquarters and the EU institutions based in Estonia (hereinafter: other relevant institutions);
- an HC-series service card (grey) to the honorary consuls of foreign countries.
According to the eIDAS regulation Diplomatic Identity Card is issued in person.
We recommend to check the validity of the passport before applying for an identity card. Diplomatic or service card can be issued according to the validity of the passport.
Diplomatic or Service card shall not be issued if the duration of an assignment is shorter than six (6) months.
The Ministry expects that all administrative and service staff (C- and D-series) should be in regular rotation, with a maximum tour of duty of eight (8) years. All administrative and service staff must be nationals of the sending State. Persons that are not nationals of the sending State will not be accepted as accredited staff. E-category card holders are bound by the assignment of their employer.
Expired diplomatic and service cards must be returned to the State Protocol Department.
Missions and other relevant institutions are requested to return the diplomatic and service cards of their departing staff and their family members to the Ministry immediately after the termination of their functions and before leaving Estonia. The State Protocol Department will not issue a new card to a mission /institution before the card of the predecessor is returned.
The State Protocol Department should be informed without a delay about the loss of diplomatic identity card.
2.1.1. Order for Issuance of Diplomatic and Service Cards to Members of Foreign Mission Resident in Estonia
In order to apply for a diplomatic and service card, the employees of a foreign mission (diplomatic representations, consular establishments and representations of international organisations) and their family members, should submit the following documents to the State Protocol Department:
- a verbal note that contains the data about the duration period of an assignment, official title and service rank of the person sent to the mission;
- notification;
- one colour photo according to the photo requirements;
- CV with photo (not obligatory for family members);
- a coloured photocopy of the page(s) of the card user’s valid travel document containing personal data, the passport’s expiration date, and the passport type;
- a coloured photocopy of the page(s) of the card user’s valid travel document containing long-term visa and/or Schengen entry stamp.
After filling out the notification, it will be emailed to you as a PDF file. After printing the form, you must sign and stamp it before submitting it to Ministry, together with other required documents.
For HC cards the head of the Embassy should sign notification form and a note verbale from an Embassy is requested.
The State Protocol Department may, if necessary, require additional information.
Notifications with deficiencies will not be accepted.
2.1.2. Order for Issuance of a Diplomatic Identity Card to Diplomats Residing outside Estonia
For non-resident diplomats accredited to Estonia, identity cards are only issued to the Head of Mission and Defence Attaché, provided that they have accreditation in the country of residence valid for at least six months. Please note that Diplomatic ID card should be picked up in person at the Ministry in Tallinn!
The following documents should be submitted to the State Protocol Department:
- a verbal note, which contains data about the duration period of a mission, official title and service rank of the diplomat;
- notification;
- one colour photo according to the photo requirements;
- CV with photo (not obligatory for family members);
- a coloured photocopy of the page(s) of the card user’s valid travel document containing personal data, the passport’s expiration date, and the passport type;
- the document serving as the basis for residency in the country of residence (generally a coloured copy of the diplomatic card).
After filling out the notification, it will be emailed to you as a PDF file. After printing the form, you must sign and stamp it before submitting it to Ministry, together with other required documents.
Please note, that based on the registration notification and other required documents, all other accredited non-resident diplomats will be added to the Tallinn Diplomatic List.
The notification should have all fields filled out in block letters, electronically and be signed by the head of mission, confirmed with a seal.
The form must not have any corrections!
The State Protocol Department may, if necessary, require additional information.
Notifications with deficiencies will not be accepted.
2.1.3. Order for Issuance of a Service card to Members and Staff of the International Organisation, NATO Headquarters and the European Union Institutions Based in Estonia (G cards)
In order to apply for a service identity cards to the members and staff of the international organisation, NATO headquarters and the EU institutions based in Estonia, the following documents should be submitted to the State Protocol Department:
- an official letter signed by the head of office that contains data about the duration period of an assignment and official title/category of the staff member;
- notification;
- one colour photo according to the photo requirements;
- CV (not obligatory for family members);
- a coloured photocopy of the page(s) of the card user’s valid travel document that contain personal data, the passport’s expiration date, and the passport type.
After filling out the notification, it will be emailed to you as a PDF file. After printing the form (either from the webpage or from your e-mail), you must sign and stamp it before submitting it to Ministry, together with other required documents.
The State Protocol Department may, if necessary, require additional information.
Notifications with deficiencies will not be accepted.
2.1.4. Order for the Extension, Renewal, or Changing of data on a Diplomatic and Service Card.
For the extension, renewal, or changing of data on a diplomatic and service card (prolongation of accreditation time, new passport, name change, change in profession, etc.), the following documents should be submitted to the State Protocol Department:
- a verbal note or an official letter signed by head of office (expected date of departure should be notified);
- supplementary notification;
- one colour photo according to the photo requirements;
- a coloured photocopy of the page(s) of the card user’s valid travel document containing personal data, the passport’s expiration date, and the passport type;
- for diplomats residing outside Estonia, the document serving as the basis for residency in the country of residence (generally a coloured copy of the diplomatic card).
After printing the form, you must sign and stamp it before submitting it to Ministry, together with other required documents.
NB! Expired diplomatic or service cards must be returned to the State Protocol Department.
2.1.5. Notification forms
The notification should have all fields filled out in block letters, electronically and be signed by the head of mission, confirmed with a seal. A separate notification form is required of each accompanying family member.
The form must not have any corrections!
A digital document photo taken according to the requirement specified above and with a minimum size of 1300 x 1600 pixels and 1 MB can be sent to the State Protocol Department’s e-mail [email protected]
2.2. Family Members
Family members are the following persons who are on the maintenance of and share a common household with a member of mission and other relevant institution:
- a spouse;
- an unmarried child of up to 21 years of age who resides with his or her parents;
- an unmarried child of up to 23 years of age who studies on a daily basis at a higher education establishment in Estonia and resides with his or her parents;
- another family member according to the relevant agreement or in exceptional cases.
For children under the age of 15 a notification form should be signed by a parent/legal guardian at field #21.
Each exceptional case is considered on an individual basis upon receipt of a verbal note with reasonable arguments from the mission.
2.3. Military Attaché
In order to assign a Military Attaché and Deputy/Assistant Military Attaché, a foreign mission must apply for pre-consent from the Foreign Ministry. In order to do so, the foreign mission must submit to the State Protocol Department a note along with the CV of the candidate for Military Attaché or the Deputy/Assistant Military Attaché.
2.4. Locally Hired Staff
Foreign missions may employ Estonian citizens and permanent residents of Estonia as their administrative staff in accordance with the relevant legislation of Estonia. Mandatory labor taxes must be paid for them.
According to Article 1 of the Vienna Convention, the "members of the staff of the mission" are the members of the diplomatic staff, of the administrative and technical staff and of the service staff of the mission. Under the Article 10 (d, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the receiving State must be informed whenever the mission hires or dismisses local staff or private servants who are entitled to diplomatic privileges and immunities. Persons who provide services to the foreign mission are not members of the mission, they are not entitled to privileges or immunities, and are not permitted to participate in events organized by the Ministry.
The Ministry does not issue service cards to locally engaged staff of missions, with the exception of drivers. They can obtain a F-category card. The card is renewable every 2 years.
2.5. Private Servants
The State Protocol Department issues diplomatic identity cards to the private servants (home assistants, home teachers, etc.) of diplomats on the condition that a foreign mission notifies the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of their arrival and presents corresponding documents.
2.6. Estonian Personal Identification Code
An Estonian personal IDentification code makes it easier to manage personal affairs and allows access to some relevant services offered in Estonia, though it does not offer the concessions that are granted to local residents. An Estonian personal ID code for the diplomats and administrative and technical staff of foreign missions and international organisations and their family members is issued in the process of applying for the diplomatic and service identity card.
Holders of diplomatic and service cards are non-residents in Estonia and, based on agreements, do not have to register their place of residence in order to acquire a temporary right of residence.
The State Protocol Department should be informed of all changes connected with the vehicles of foreign missions, i.e. the purchase, sale, import or export of vehicles, loss of certificate of registration, accidents, theft, etc.
3.1. Traffic Rules
Traffic management and traffic safety requirements on Estonian roads are provided by the Road Traffic Act. The members of mission are advised to become familiar with the local traffic rules and adhere to them.
According to Estonian law, in the case of poor visibility or in the dark a pedestrian is required to wear a safety reflector!
In accordance with valid traffic rules, the maximum speed permitted by law within towns in Estonia is 50 km/h and outside towns is 90 km/h, unless it is marked otherwise with road signs. In the center of Tallinn the maximum permitted speed is even 30-40 km/h. While in motion, a vehicle must have dipped beam headlamps, side lamps, and rear registration plate lamps turned on; winter tyres are obligatory from 1 December to 1 March. Studded tyres are allowed from 15 October to 31 March. In connection with weather- and road conditions (snow, slipperiness etc.) the studded tyres are allowed already from 01 October until 30 April.
Every driver is obliged to pull over if requested to do so by a police officer and to present the registration documents of the vehicle and the diplomatic or service card issued by the State Protocol Department. The police will return the documents after verification.
The driver and all passengers are also obligated to wear safety belts. While driving the driver of a motor vehicle is not allowed to be engaged with actions which may disturb driving, including holding a mobile telephone in his/her hand.
The police authorities use automatic traffic control cameras for traffic control. These cameras record speeding of vehicles. The police authorities send notices of vehicles with CD, CMD and AT registration plates to the missions concerned, adding a complaint form for a reply. The missions should either pay the traffic ticket or reply to these notices by fulfilling the complaint form and sending it to the Traffic Proceedings Bureau of Law Enforcement Police Department of Police and Border Guard Board, P. Pinna tn 4, 13619 Tallinn. The police inform the State Protocol Department about the traffic violations of vehicles with CD, CMD and AT registration plates.
The driver may not be under the influence of either alcohol or drugs. Persons who enjoy inviolability cannot, however, be obliged to submit to a breathalyser, blood or urine test. Regardless of whether the person submits to the test or not, the police officer may decide that it is not in the interest of public safety to permit him/her to continue driving. The Ministry for Foreign Affairs considers driving under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances by a member of a mission a serious misbehaviour and shall take action when a suspicion of a violation of the law is brought to its attention by the police authorities.
Use of the special public transportation pathway is allowed only for public transportation vehicles (buses, trolleys, taxis).
Driving in pedestrian areas is not allowed. A person with a residence in the Old Tallinn pedestrian area whose first and last name appears on the certificate of registration of a vehicle may access the pedestrian area by vehicle in order to get to his/her parking spot, on the basis of an Access Card issued by the Tallinn City Transport Department. Trading and servicing companies on pedestrian areas can be accessed with transport vehicles from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.
The Ministry does not have the authority to dismiss violations or cancel fines associated with traffic citations.
*Circular Note, 22 April 2025: Compliance with the Traffic Act and other relevant regulations
3.2. Importation of Motor Vehicle
Pursuant to the Value Added Tax Act, missions and diplomats as well as members of the administrative staff of missions who are not nationals of Estonia may purchase a new motor vehicle exempt from taxes.
Pursuant to the Customs Act a diplomat may import, exempt from customs duty, one new or used motor vehicle per adult family member and not more than two motor vehicles per family.
Members of the administrative staff may import, exempt from customs duty, one new or used motor vehicle per family during the first three months of their stay in Estonia.
The right of missions to import motor vehicles for official use is not restricted as long as the number of vehicles is reasonable in relation to the size of the mission.
When a new or used motor vehicle is imported to Estonia from outside the European Union, it is subject to customs clearance.
In order to import exempt from customs duty, a diplomat or member of the administrative staff must present a duly completed (which in addition to the name of the item also lists the maker of the vehicle, model, chassis number, date of release, and engine capacity) Customs Declaration of Diplomatic Merchandise to the State Protocol Department as promptly as possible with a copy of the certificate of registration or, in the case of a new vehicle, a copy of the contract of purchase and sale.
The applicant should present the Customs Declaration of Diplomatic Merchandise form approved by the State Protocol Department to the Tax and Customs Board for clearance.
3.3. Vehicle Inspection, Compulsory Insurance and Registration of Motor Vehicle
Prior to the first registry in Estonia, all vehicles (new and used) must pass a pre-registration inspection by the Estonian Transport Administration.
After the registration, the vehicle must be inspected by an inspector of motor vehicles to ensure that the condition of the vehicle meets Estonian roadworthiness requirements.
After the initial inspection, the roadworthiness of the vehicle must be inspected regularly according to the deadlines set at the previous inspection.
Pursuant to the Motor Insurance Act, all motor vehicles registered in Estonia are subject to compulsory motor insurance which must be purchased from an insurance company based in Estonia. It should be noted that the vehicle must be covered by such insurance from the moment of registration.
The driver must carry the compulsory motor insurance policy at all times. In case of a traffic accident, the individuals involved are obligated to inform each other and any injured parties of their name, address and insurer. Should the other party or injured party request so, an insurance policy should be presented to them.
Upon departure from Estonia, the compulsory motor insurance policy should be presented at the border. In case of failure to maintain the order of the compulsory motor insurance, the insurance fee along with a fine should be paid prior to departure from Estonia.
Registration of Motor Vehicle
The motor vehicles owned by foreign missions, diplomats and members of the administrative staff shall be registered at the Estonian Transport Administration on the basis of an approval letter from the State Protocol Department.
In order to register a vehicle, the foreign mission should submit to the State Protocol Department a verbal note which states the following:
- the owner and make of a vehicle;
- the identification number of the vehicle;
- customs declaration in case vehicle is imported from outside the EU.
In addition to the verbal note a copy of the certificate of registration or, in the case of a new vehicle, a copy of the contract of purchase and sale should be submitted.
The following documentation should be submitted to the Estonian Transport Administration in addition to an approval letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
- an application form to the Estonian Transport Administration;
- the original of the certificate of registration or, in the case of a new vehicle, a copy of the contract of purchase and sale or invoice;
- in the case of a new vehicle, an original of the certificate of conformity – COC certificate;
- a pre-registration inspection certificate;
- in the case of an imported car from outside of the European Union, a Customs Declaration of Diplomatic Merchandise approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tax and Customs Board.
If necessary, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Estonian Transport Administration have a right to request additional documents.
Diplomatic licence plates foreseen for the motor vehicles (cars and minivans) of the staff of a foreign mission have a blue background with the following white marks of identifications:
- CMD (Chef du Mission Diplomatique);
- CD (Corps Diplomatique);
- AT (Personnel Administrative-technique).
The mark of identification is followed by the number code of the foreign mission and a serial number.
Licence plates are issued in sizes 113x520 mm and 152x302 mm.
The delivery time for new licence plates is at least one week.
Only a diplomat and his/her spouse may each register one vehicle to CD (blue) licence plates and only a members of the administrative staff may register one vehicle per family to AT (blue) licence plates, but no later than six months prior to the (presumed) termination of their mission.
A motor vehicles owned by the leasing company shall not be registered with the diplomatic license plates.
3.4. Deletion of Motor Vehicle from the Register
Upon the termination of the assignment of a diplomat or a member of the administrative staff, the vehicle must be deleted from the register prior to his/her departure from Estonia.
Not deleting the vehicle from the register could lead to the State Protocol Department refusing to issue an approval letter and new licence plates to the mission concerned or to its members.
In order to delete a vehicle from the register, a foreign mission must submit to the State Protocol Department:
- a verbal note which states whether the vehicle shall be sold in Estonia, exported, or disposed. Should the vehicle be exported, a border crossing point and date must be stated and transit licence plates should be applied for (valid maximum 30 days);
- a copy of the certificate of registration;
- customs declaration in case vehicle will be exported from EU.
The following documentation should be submitted to the Estonian Transport Administration along with an approval letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
- an application form to the Estonian Transport Administration;
- the original of the certificate of registration for the vehicle.
3.5. Sale of Motor Vehicle
A motor vehicle acquired or imported to Estonia free of duty and taxes may not be sold or otherwise transferred without incurring the liability to pay the customs duties and VAT from which it has been exempted for three years from the date of the customs declaration, unless the buyer enjoys the same exemptions as the seller.
After a three-year period, a tax-free motor vehicle may be sold in Estonia exempt from duties and taxes. If the motor vehicle is to be sold before the expiry of the three-year period since the customs registration, the owner is liable to pay 1/36 of the customs duties per every remaining month of the three-year period.
3.6. Parking
In accordance with international practice, up to three parking places are allocated to foreign missions near their premises. These places are intended for cars carrying CMD/CD licence plates and are marked with a sign that says “Parkimine lubatud ainult CD ja CMD numbrimärkidega autodel” (“Parking allowed only for cars with CD and CMD licence plates”).
Diplomatic parking places are assigned to a mission even if this is not specified on the sign.
In order to apply for parking spaces, foreign missions must submit a verbal note to that effect to the State Protocol Department. The State Protocol Department will forward the application to the Tallinn City Transport Board.
According to the Traffic Act, a vehicle must not be parked in any place where it is prohibited by a traffic control device, including the pedestrian area in Tallinn Old Town. A vehicle must not be parked on a green area without the consent of the green area’s owner or possessor; a vehicle must also not be parked partly or completely on a pavement if it is not allowed by a respective traffic control device.
A parking fee is a fee established by local governments in Estonia in order to manage parking in public paid parking areas. It does not exempt cars with diplomatic licence plates from payment.
In accordance with the decisions of the city councils of Tallinn, vehicles with CMD licence plates have permission to park for free in public paid parking areas in Tallinn. Please find more information on the Tallinn City Government homepage Parking in Tallinn.
Parked cars with diplomatic licence plates in private parking areas anywhere in Estonia (for example Europark, Citypark) are not exempt from the parking fee.
Diplomatic missions and their staff must pay fines received for parking illegally.
3.7. Driving Licences
Estonia recognises driving licences issued by or formalised according to the principles of the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic or the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic and the agreements and amendments attached to it. A driving licence is valid in Estonia provided that entries on the licence are made in the Latin alphabet or transliterated into the Latin alphabet.
A driving licence of a diplomatic representative of a foreign country and other member of foreign missions and/or organisations are valid along with a diplomatic or service card issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and are not subject to exchange in Estonia.
Estonian Transport Administration is an authority in Estonia that organizes theory and practical driving tests, approves examination results and grants the right to drive a motor vehicle.
To obtain an Estonian driving licence, the applicant must pass:
- the preparation in driving school;
- first-aid training;
- a theory and practical driving test at a regional testing centre of the Estonian Transport Administration.
In order to participate at driving school, theory and driving tests the applicant may receive supporting letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs State Protocol Department.
Additional information:
Estonian Transport Administration
Tallinn Regional Bureau
Heli 6, 12618 Tallinn
Phone: (+372) 620 1200
https://transpordiamet.ee/en
Estonian Traffic Insurance Foundation (Eesti Liikluskindlustuse Fond):
Mustamäe tee 46, 10621 Tallinn
Phone: (+372) 667 1800
https://www.lkf.ee/en
The aim of the diplomatic privileges and immunities is not to prefer individuals, but to ensure the effective functions of diplomatic missions representing their countries. The tax exemptions for the members of the foreign diplomatic missions are intended to make the work better and easier for them in their residence country.
4.1. Land Tax
Mission premises and residences are exempt from land tax. In the absence of bilateral or multilateral agreements, buildings other than the residence or the chancellery are not exempt from the taxes. The landlord must still pay the taxes regardless of whether the taxes are separately stated in the rental agreement or in another document.
4.2. Conditions for Refund of Value Added Tax (VAT)
The standard rate of VAT is 24% of the taxable value. A lower taxation rate of 9% has been established for books, periodicals, accommodation service, some study materials, funeral items and services, and certain medicines and medicinal products.
The VAT Act determines the tax benefits applicable to:
1. foreign diplomatic missions or consular posts, or representations of special missions, international organisations, European Community institutions, or NATO Headquarters;
2. foreign diplomatic representatives, consular agents (except honorary consuls) and their family members, representatives of special missions or international organisations accredited to Estonia;
3. members of the administrative staff of foreign diplomatic missions or consular posts and their family members accredited to Estonia;
4. members of NATO Headquarters according to the relevant agreement.
It should be noted that VAT refunding on goods (except foodstuffs) and services is granted only if the purchase was made in Estonia and the supplier is registered as a VAT liable person in Estonia. The invoiced amount must be at least 64 Euros including VAT. This condition does not apply if otherwise agreed on the basis of reciprocity. For online purchases in other EU countries, a VAT and Excise Duty exemption certificate should be used, as described in Section 4.5.
In the case of public utility services, telecommunications services, and fuel within the limits of the Liquid Fuel Act, VAT shall also be refunded if the total value is less than 64 Euros, and if it is not agreed otherwise on the basis of reciprocity or according to the agreement.
VAT may be applied for within ninety (90) days after the date of purchase of the goods or receipt of the service. VAT shall not be refunded on the acquisition of used goods, incl. motor vehicles.
* Value-Added Tax Act (§39)
* Bilateral VAT benefits
* Liquid Fuel Act
4.3. Conditions for Refund of Excise Duties
Pursuant to the Alcohol, Tobacco, Electricity and Fuel Excise Duty Act § 45², excise duty paid on alcohol, electricity and fuel subject to excise duty which is purchased for official purposes by the following parties shall be refunded:
1. foreign diplomatic missions and consular posts;
2. representations or representatives of international organisations accredited to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs);
3. foreign diplomatic representatives, consular agents (except honorary consuls), or representatives of special missions accredited to Estonia;
4. European Union institutions, or NATO Headquarters (according to the relevant agreement).
Excise duty shall not be refunded on tobacco products.
Excise duty shall not be refunded to members of the administrative staff of foreign diplomatic missions and consular posts, if it is not agreed otherwise on the basis of reciprocity or according to the agreement.
Excise Duties may be applied for within ninety (90) days after the date of purchase of the excise goods.
* Alcohol, Tobacco, Electricity and Fuel Excise Duty Act
4.4. Order of Refund of VAT and Excise Duties
All applications must be digitally signed by the Head of Mission/ Institution. No official seal of the Mission/ Institution is required when application is digitally signed. Digitally signed VAT or Excise Duties refund applications (max 18 MB) accompanied by purchase receipts/ invoices, should be sent to the State Protocol Department by the tenth day of the corresponding month to the e-mail address [email protected].
The completed application forms for the refund of VAT or excise duties should be accompanied by all the purchase receipts / invoices described on the application. Multiple receipts could be scanned into one document, but it is of utmost importance that the following components of the receipts / invoices should be clearly readable:
• number and date of the invoice;
• the buyer’s name (should be already printed on the invoice);
• the precise description and quantity of the goods and/or services;
• the amount of purchase in total and the amount of VAT in euros;
• the issuer of the invoice/receipt and its VAT registration number;
• car maintenance invoices must include license plate number.
All utility bills must be issued in the name of the Mission or privileged person. Bills in the name of the landlord must be accompanied with a copy of the rental agreement when submitting an application for the first time.
Please note that the VAT and excise duty paid on fuel is refunded only when special client cards issued by the fuel vendor in the name of the Mission or privileged person are used and a consolidated monthly invoice is presented. Single checks of the fuel purchases are not accepted.
When purchasing a vehicle, VAT is refunded only if the vehicle is registered with a diplomatic license plate.
Foreign diplomats (holders of an A and B category identity card) can acquire one vehicle tax exempt during their assignment, or two vehicles if they are accompanied by a spouse who has a diplomatic status in Estonia.
Members of the administrative staff (holders of a C category identity card) can acquire one vehicle tax exempt during their assignment.
The State Protocol Department will confirm the applicant’s right to apply for a refund of VAT or Excise Duties by taking account of the applicant’s position, reciprocity, and the intended use of the goods or services. Approved applications with supplemental invoices will be sent by the State Protocol Department to the Tax and Customs Board by the twentieth day of the month of receipt of the documents.
The Tax and Customs Board shall make a decision concerning the application within 30 days of the date of receipt of the application. Refundable VAT or Excise Duties shall be transferred by the Tax and Customs Board to the bank account specified in the application.
* The order of the refund of VAT was established by Regulation No. 52 of the Minister of Finance of 28 June 2017. The application form has been established by Regulation No. 20 of the Minister of Finance of 2 May 2016.
* The order of the refund of Excise Duty was established by Regulation No. 31 of the Minister of Finance of 27 June 2022.
4.5. Exemption of VAT and Excise Duties on Purchases Made in other EU Member States
Foreign diplomatic missions and diplomatic representatives, international organisations, European Union institutions, armed forces of a State being a party to the NATO force and their staff members accredited to Estonia are exempt from VAT and Excise Duty on purchases made in other EU member states according to rules valid in Estonia by filling a VAT and Excise Duty exemption certificate.
Exemption of VAT and Excise Duties is granted only for purchases that come into use in Estonia under similar conditions as refunds are usually granted in Estonia.
Starting from 1 January 2025 onwards non-resident missions and diplomats accredited to Estonia will have to use the EU VAT exemption scheme from their country of residence for purchases made in Estonia.
In accordance with the Alcohol, Tobacco, Electricity and Fuel Excise Duty Act § 27, alcohol imported or transported to Estonia from another member state of the European Union or purchased from an excise warehouse for official purposes by foreign diplomatic missions and consular posts, by representations or representatives of international organisations recognised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or by foreign diplomatic representatives, consular agents (except honorary consuls) and representatives of special missions accredited to Estonia are exempt from Excise Duty.
If the description of the goods and/or services (box 5.B of the certificate) refers to a purchase order form drawn up in a language other than a language recognised by Estonia, a translation must be attached by the eligible body/individual.
Completed certificates should be sent to the State Protocol Department for confirmation. The certificate should be filled out in block letters, signed by the Head of Mission, and certified with the official seal of the diplomatic mission or consulate. For reimbursement of Excise Duties, the certificate should be filled in on a duplicate as well.
Having been confirmed and stamped, the certificate should be presented to the seller of the products or service. One copy is held by the seller and the other is returned to the buyer together with the products supplied.
* Council Directive 2006/112/EC of 28 November 2006 on the common system of value added tax (Art 151)
* Council Directive 2008/118/EC of 16 December 2008 concerning the general arrangements for excise duty (Art 13)
* European Commission Regulation No 31/96/EC of 10 January 1996 on the Excise Duty exemption certificate.
Additional information:
Information about the Estonian tax system is available on the web site of the Estonian Tax And Customs Board https://emta.ee/en
Contact person
Ms Julia Laur
Estonian Tax and Customs Board (Maksu- ja Tolliamet)
Lõõtsa 8a, Tallinn 15176
Phone: (+372) 676 1674
E-mail: [email protected]
https://emta.ee opens in a new tab
The implementation of customs duties on foreign missions, on their diplomats and members of the administrative staff and their family members, has been provided by the Customs Act.
The implementation of customs duties on international organisations, EU institutions and NATO Headquarters and their staff members is regulated by the relevant international agreement.
Information on the Estonian customs system can be found on the Tax and Customs Board and on the Ministry of Finance homepage.
5.1. Conditions for Exemption from Import and Export Taxes
There is import and export tax exemption on goods brought over the customs border by:
- diplomatic missions and consular posts, special missions and international organisations for official use;
- diplomats and members of the administrative staff and their family members for personal use.
Import and export tax exemptions are implemented when a sending state implements similar preferences on diplomats and members of the administrative staff of a foreign representation of the Republic of Estonia.
Diplomats and their family members have the right to apply for import and export tax exemption for the duration of their assignment to Estonia.
Members of the administrative staff and their family members have the right to apply for import and export tax exemptions intended for personal use only during the settlement period, within the first three months of the applicant’s stay in Estonia.
5.2. Procedure of Customs Formalities
In order to get exemption from the import and export tax, one must fill out a customs declaration of diplomatic merchandise. The same declarations are valid for obtaining merchandise from a customs warehouse.
Customs declaration form together with the additional documents must be confirmed with the digital signature of the Head of Mission and sent to [email protected] (max 5 MB) ).
The customs declaration on paper (so-called “French paper”/Self-copy form available in the State Protocol Department) must be filled out in Estonian or in English, signed by the Head of Mission or a person authorised for it, and certified with the official seal of the diplomatic mission or consulate. The description of merchandise in the customs declarations must enable the identification of the goods. A filled customs declaration shall be submitted for approval to the State Protocol Department.
The mission or other applicant should deliver the confirmed document to the warehouse keeper or to customs.
*The procedure of customs formalities on goods of foreign missions, diplomats and administrative staff and their family members exempted from all taxes is established by Regulation No. 39 of the Minister of Finance from 19 June 2017.
5.3. Customs Examination
5.3.1. Diplomatic Baggage
Goods carried over the customs border by foreign missions, diplomats, or members of the administrative staff are not subjected to customs examination unless:
- goods do not correspond to what is indicated on the documents;
- the import and export of these particular goods is prohibited;
- the goods require a special permit, and there is no indication of the name of the issuing institution, permit number or date of issue on the customs declaration;
- goods have not been declared.
A customs examination of goods of a foreign mission may only be carried out in the presence of the Head of Mission or a person authorised by them. A customs examination of the goods of a diplomat or a member of the administrative staff may only be carried out in the presence of the aforementioned person or a person authorised by them.
5.3.2. Diplomatic and Consular Mail
Diplomatic or consular mail consists of documents and goods prescribed solely for official use. Diplomatic or consular mail must have a clearly visible external sign that refers to its contents.
Diplomatic and consular mail shall not be opened nor detained. If there is reasonable doubt that diplomatic mail does not correspond to what has been declared, customs has the right to ask that the addressee or an authorised person of the sending state open the mail in the presence of a customs official. In the case of refusal to open the mail, it shall be sent back at the expense of the sender.
Customs information and e-customs: (+372) 880 0814
E-mail: [email protected]
http://www.emta.ee
Missions may dial 112 in urgent, genuine cases of emergency where someone’s life, health or property is in danger, or if there is any reason to assume this to be the case.
All violations of law committed against the territory and staff of a foreign mission must be reported as soon as possible to the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board, Control and Command Centre of the Embassy Guard Service (24/7):
phone 6123910, 6123970 or 5173910
and to the State Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
phone 637 7500 (office hours: 08:30-17:00) or 637 7000 (outside the office hours).
In the territory of the Republic of Estonia, foreign missions and their staff are guarded and protected by Police and Border Guard Board, Public Order Police Department, Guard Bureau, and Guard Service of Embassies.
The protection of diplomatic and consular missions is provided on the basis of threat assessment.
In the event of threats or risks to the safety of diplomatic and consular missions or to its personnel, the mission should at first contact the State Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia, which in turn immediately will contact the relevant authorities to take appropriate measures.
Diplomatic and Consular Missions should take all necessary measures to protect their premises, offices and residential accommodations. Adequate insurance against fire and burglary should be obtained.
Important numbers:
- Tallinn help line: 1345 (city transport, environment, pets, greenery, etc)
- Electricity emergencies 24/7 phone: 1343
- Fee-charging info lines: 1188, 1182
6.1. The Diplomatic Security Programme
Starting from autumn 2007 the Guard Service of Embassies is using an internet-based object watch system called the Diplomatic Security Programme.
The Diplomatic Security Programme is divided into four parts:
- technical equipment;
- mobile unit service;
- manned guard;
- bodyguard.
6.1.1. Technical Equipment
The local alarm system of the territory is connected via the respective IP module to the Internet, via which the Guard Service of Embassies holds contact with the territory. A cryptographic and multiple duplication system has been used. When receiving alarm information, a mobile unit of the Guard Service of Embassies shall be sent to the scene of an event to determine the reason for the alarm and, if need be, to inform contact persons.
The control cab of the Guard Service of Embassies works 24/7.
A new Internet channel system also provides clients with video guard solutions. This involves visual surveillance of the property via the Internet (e.g. this would involve guarding the outside perimeter or entrance). The technical equipment of the video guard consists of a camera installed on the territory or a video server and a camera.
6.1.2. Mobile Unit Service
The primary task of the mobile unit service is to react to the alarm signals arriving from guarded areas. Mobile unit service provides assistance to the employees of the mission in everyday problems and dealing with traffic supervision connected with foreign missions.
6.1.3. Manned Guard
A manned guard is used in the following cases:
- when is not technically feasible to use the electronic guard;
- when according to a performed risk analysis there is a real danger of criminal attack to the foreign mission or its head.
6.1.4. Bodyguard
A bodyguard shall be implemented in cases when special danger is characterised at such a high level of risk that the other above-mentioned means are not sufficient.
NB! A foreign mission must inform the State Protocol Department of the names and contact information of the persons who are currently responsible for security issues and who can also be contacted outside of working hours.
Additional information:
Embassy Guard Service
Guard Bureau
Police and Border Guard Board
Helme 3, 10614 Tallinn
Phone: (+372) 612 3910
E-mail: [email protected]
http://www.politsei.ee/en/
The procedure for the handling of weapons and ammunition, the granting of permission for weapons and ammunition to be used for civilian purposes, and the use of weapons and ammunition for civilian purposes are established by the Weapons Act.
7.1. Acquisition and Possession of a Weapon in Estonia
An employee of a foreign mission who is a citizen of a foreign country may acquire and possess a weapon in Estonia (except a truncheon) for hunting, dealing with a relevant sport, security, being active in a profession, or collecting. A person who has a weapon in his/her possession is obliged to register his/her weapon within 7 days of the day of arrival in Estonia.
When an employee of a foreign mission wishes to bring along his/her personal weapon to Estonia and possess it during the whole mission, he/she has to apply for three (3) different permits:
- a weapons acquisition permit;
- a prior permit/special permit in order to bring in the weapon;
- a permit to carry a weapon.
In order to get the aforementioned permits, a foreign mission must submit a verbal note in addition to the required documents to the State Protocol Department, which in turn forwards these to the Police Board.
Employees of a foreign mission are exempt from the state fee when applying for a weapons permit.
7.1.1. Weapons Acquisition Permit
In order to acquire a weapons acquisition permit, one has to submit to the police prefecture of their residence:
- a weapons permit from their country of citizenship (certified with an apostille and translated into Estonian)
- an application;
- a copy of the applicant’s passport;
- 2 photos, 3x4 cm.
A weapons acquisition permit is valid for three (3) months.
7.1.2. Permit to Carry a Weapon
In order to acquire a permit to carry a weapon, one has to submit to the police prefecture of their residence:
- a weapons acquisition permit;
- an application;
- the procured weapon.
The permit to carry a weapon is valid for five (5) years.
Additional information:
Police and Border Guard Board
Põhja Prefecture (Põhja prefektuur)
Pärnu mnt 139, 15021 Tallinn
Phone: (+372) 612 4955
E-mail: [email protected]
7.2. Transport and Carrying of Weapons and Ammunition across the Customs Border by the Security Official Accompanying High Level Visitors
Weapons and ammunition may be carried across the customs border only on the basis of a prior permit (EU member states) or of a special permit (outside the European Union) issued by the Police Board upon the request of the Ministry Foreign Affairs.
In order to apply for the permit, a foreign mission must submit as early as possible to the State Protocol Department a verbal note with the following information:
- the personal data of a carrier of the weapon (name, date of birth, passport number);
- the brand name of the weapon and its serial number;
- the calibre of the cartridge;
- the quantity of ammunition.
The special permit is sent electronically to the Tax and Customs Board prior to the visit to Estonia. The marking of a prior permit upon carrying a weapon into Estonia and departing from Estonia is not obligatory.
Additional information is on the homepage of the Police and Border Guard Board.
Pursuant to the provisions of Article 27 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, a foreign mission may install and use a wireless transmitter only with the consent of the receiving state. Use of radio telecommunications in the Republic of Estonia has been provided in the Electronic Communication Act. Radio frequency permits are issued by the Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority.
In order to apply for the radio frequency permit, a foreign mission must submit a verbal note to the State Protocol Department. The application must contain the type, make and model of the radio telecommunications, desired radio frequency (at least two optional desired radio frequencies), capacity (power), and operational area and time.
Permanent radio frequency permits are issued within 6 weeks if they do not require international co-ordination and within 8 months if they require international co-ordination.
Additional information:
Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority (Tarbijakaitse ja Tehnilise Järelvalve Amet (TTJA))
Endla 10A, 10122 Tallinn
Phone: (+372) 667 2000
E-mail: [email protected]
9.1. Aviation Security
The Procedure for Aviation Security has been established by Regulation (EU) No 300/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 March 2008 and Regulation (EC) No 272/2009 of the European Council of 2 April 2009 (establishing common rules in the field of civil aviation security).
Pursuant to the aforementioned regulations, diplomats and other privileged persons and their baggage are subject to the examination for security purposes, except in case of diplomatic mail. Passengers possessing diplomatic immunity are subject to ordinary pre-flight security checks. Their carry-on baggage and check-in baggage must pass ordinary pre-flight security checks.
According to the Estonian Aviation Act paragraph 46, only the Head of State, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Estonia, the President of the Riigikogu, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, their spouses and minor children travelling with them are exempt from security screening. The exemption from security screening applies to persons of foreign states holding an equal position, bodyguards who ensure the protection of the persons listed in this subsection or who travel with them or send them on a trip as well as to the cabin baggage of persons exempt from security screening.
Additional information can be found on the homepage of the Estonian Transport Administration.
9.2. VIP Service in Tallinn Airport
Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport offers VIP services. The description of packages and pricelist can be found on VIP service homepage.
Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport (Lennart Meri Tallinna Lennujaam)
Lennujaama 2, 111101 Tallinn, pk 1, Estonia
Phone (+372) 605 85 41
E-mail: [email protected]
www.tallinn-airport.ee/eng
9.3. Parking at Tallinn Airport
All diplomatic representations could rent parking spaces at Tallinn Airport at a discounted price. For further information contact Ms Carol Randlepp, Sales Manager [email protected] or contact Sales Department [email protected] or visit the airport homepage.
In order to conduct elections, permission must be obtained from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. For that purpose, a foreign mission should submit a verbal note to the State Protocol Department notifying of the date, time, and expected number of participants in the elections, contact person and his/her phone number and a request for security measures if needed.
In Estonia foreign missions are only permitted to organise elections for the citizens of the sending country on the premises of foreign missions and honorary consulates.
11.1. Pre-school child care institutions
A diplomatic and service identity card provides a temporary legal base for residing in Estonia. The card owner is not eligible to apply for local subsidies for municipal kindergartens and schools.
International Kindergarten:
Address: Väike-Ameerika 39, Tallinn
Phone: (+372) 646 4067
Mobile phone: (+372) 5341 1884
http://www.kindergarten.tln.edu.ee
The International Kindergarten has operated in Tallinn since 1997.
International Pre-School of Estonia:
Address: Juhkentali 18, Tallinn
Phone: (+372) 660 6072
http://www.ise.edu.ee
Kindergarten and Preschool at the International School of Tallinn
Aadress: Keevise 2, Tallinn
Phone: (+372) 50 66 080
https://ist.ee/
If you wish to use Tallinn kindergartens, children of diplomats can apply directly to the Tallinn Education Department to obtain a place. Applications for a kindergarten place are processed by the local government unit, not the kindergarten.
Tallinn Education Department
Phone: 640 4590
E-mail: [email protected]
11.2. School for international students
Tallinn European School
Address: Keevise 2, Tallinn
Phone (+372) 735 0550
E-mail: [email protected]
http://www.est.edu.ee/en
International School of Tallinn (IST)
Aadress: Keevise 2, Tallinn
Phone: (+372) 50 66 080
https://ist.ee/
International School of Estonia
Address: Juhkentali 18, Tallinn 10132
Phone: (+372) 666 4380
Fax: (+372) 666 4383
E-mail: [email protected]
http://www.ise.edu.ee
The school offers comprehensive education to children from age three (3) to eighteen (18) based on a curriculum in English.
Tallinn English College
Phone: (+372) 646 1306
E-mail: [email protected]
http://www.tik.edu.ee/en
Tallinn Finnish School
Address: Vase 9a, Tallinn
Phone (+372) 641 1032
E-mail: [email protected]
http://www.soomekool.fi/index.php?lang=fi
For Finnish speaking children.
Tallinn German Gymnasium
Address: J.Sütiste tee 20, Tallinn
Phone: (+372) 652 2240
E-mail: [email protected]
http://www.saksa.tln.edu.ee/de/
German department for Grades 7-12. The Tallinn German Gymnasium is the only secondary school in Estonia whose students can obtain not only a Certificate of Secondary Education of the Republic of Estonia, but – provided they have studied in the school's German Department – also the so called „Abitur”.
Audentes Private School
Address: Tondi 84, Tallinn
Phone: (+372) 699 6543
E-mail: [email protected]
http://www.audentes.ee/
Offers English IB study only on gymnasium level (Grade 10-12), but is flexible for cooperation on basic level (Grade 1-9).
Vanalinna Hariduskolleegium
Address: Vene 22, Tallinn
Phone: (+ 372) 699 6100
E-mail: [email protected]
http://www.vhk.ee/
Doesn’t offer study in English, but is known for the capability to help and handle children individually. There are some foreign students at the school.
Travellers arriving to or departing from Estonia may carry a certain amount of medicinal products for their own personal use.
Without the permit of the State Agency of Medicines, any person can take along for personal use up to five retail packages and the number of different preparations is up to five variant denominations.
Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances are governed by special legislation.
Requirements differ depending on the country of travel destination.
Travelling to a non-Schengen country – when carrying up to one retail package (i.e. up to 20 unit doses) of any medicinal preparation containing internationally controlled drugs, a person must have either a copy of the prescription or a letter from the physician indicating that the preparation was prescribed for the traveller, specifying the amount prescribed and the duration of treatment (maximum quantity up to 30 days treatment), is needed.
If the quantity exceeds the quantity mentioned above, a permit from State Agency of Medicines is required.
Travelling to a Schengen country – when carrying any psychotropic and/or narcotic drug, regardless of the quantity of the drug or duration of the travel, the traveller must apply for a Schengen certificate from the competent authority of the Schengen country (the certificate can only be issued in the country of permanent residence of the traveller).
Applications (in free format) for permits and Schengen certificates can be submitted to the State Agency of Medicines by e-mail [email protected].
Additional information:
State Agency of Medicines (Ravimiamet)
Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu
Phone: (+372)737 41 40
Fax: (+372)737 41 42
E-mail: [email protected]
http://www.ravimiamet.ee
Regulations concerning the import and export of pets to Estonia are available on the web site of the Agriculture and Food Board (Põllumajandus- ja Toiduamet)
Travelling with a pet:
https://pta.agri.ee/en/animals/travelling-pet
Additional information:
Agriculture and Food Board (Põllumajandus- ja Toiduamet)
Teaduse 6a, Saku, Harjumaa 75501
Väike-Paala 3, Tallinn 11415
Phone: (+372)605 1710
[email protected]
General Information
Information on the institutions, state agencies, parties, etc. of the Republic of Estonia can be found at eesti.ee.
Information about public an sports events taking place in the city, including related restrictions in traffic can be obtained from AKIS Public Event Information System.
Information about the temporary closures of the streets in connection with repaires, traffic accidents and excavation can be obtained from OPinfo Operative Information Database.
