This article will discuss e-residency, the benefits of establishing a company in Estonia, and a step-by-step guide to setting up a company with e-residency.
Section 1: Understanding E-Residency
E-residency is a government-backed digital identity program that allows non-residents to access various Estonian services and establish businesses there. As an e-resident, you receive a digital ID card that enables you to:
- Register an Estonian company remotely
- Access Estonian banking services
- Declare taxes online
- Sign and encrypt documents digitally
- Use Estonia's e-government services
Section 2: Advantages of Establishing a Company in Estonia
Estonia offers several benefits for entrepreneurs looking to set up a company, including:
- Ease of doing business: Estonia ranks high in ease of doing business, with a streamlined process for registering a company, minimal bureaucracy, and user-friendly digital services.
- Digital infrastructure: Estonia is a world leader in digital infrastructure and e-government services, making it simple for entrepreneurs to manage their businesses remotely.
- Tax benefits: Estonia has a unique corporate tax system that only taxes distributed profits, promoting reinvestment and growth. Additionally, the VAT registration threshold is €40,000, allowing small businesses to avoid VAT registration.
- Access to European markets: As a European Union member state, Estonian companies enjoy access to the EU's vast single market, enabling them to trade with minimal barriers.
- International credibility: Establishing a company in Estonia lends credibility to your business, as the country is known for its transparent business environment and adherence to EU regulations.
Section 3: Setting Up a Company in Estonia with E-Residency
To set up a company in Estonia using e-residency, follow these steps:
- Apply for e-residency: Complete the online application form on the e-Residency website, provide the required documents, and pay the application fee.
- Receive your e-residency kit: Collect your digital ID card, card reader, and instructions from an Estonian embassy or consulate once your application is approved.
- Open an Estonian bank account: Research the requirements for opening a bank account at various Estonian banks, and choose one that suits your needs.
- Register your company: Register your company through the Estonian Business Register's online portal by choosing a unique name, determining the company structure, specifying the share capital, drafting the articles of association, and providing details of the company's management board.
- Obtain a legal address: Use a virtual office service provider if you don't have a physical location in Estonia.
- Register for VAT (if applicable): Register your company for Value Added Tax if your annual taxable turnover exceeds €40,000.
Summary
Estonia's e-residency program offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to establish and manage companies remotely, benefiting from the country's business-friendly environment and access to European markets. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can take advantage of this innovative program and set up your own Estonian company with ease.
In the Estonia, company formation is easy, but tax legislation is extremely important and high penalties can be paid if mistakes are made. With Juuli, you can create invoices and receive payments for the work you do for your clients without company formation.
