It doesn’t matter whether you want to register a company in Estonia that specializes in website development, Google AdWords campaigns, or SEO automation solutions. There are also many companies here that offer link building services, such as Editorial Link, DotIT, and Awisee.com. In this article, I will explain to you how to register an SEO Company in Estonia with no hassle.  We start with some statistics about the Estonian Market, and then in the next steps, I explain how to apply for an e-Residency card and how to register a company.  We also take a look at the advantages of creating a company in Estonia.

Estonia in Numbers

Estonia’s e-Residency program, a trailblazer in digital identity, continues to flourish, offering global entrepreneurs and professionals unprecedented opportunities to conduct business without borders. Recent statistics from SimplBooks.ee highlight the impressive growth and impact of e-Residency on international entrepreneurship.

As of the latest figures, Estonia has welcomed over 112,700 e-residents, reflecting a significant rise in global interest and adoption of this innovative digital platform. These e-residents have successfully established more than 30,200 Estonian companies, demonstrating the program’s powerful role in enabling remote business creation and management.

In March 2024 alone, 1,077 new applications were submitted for e-Residency, showcasing the ongoing demand and expansion of the program.

Estonia is a hub for rapidly growing startups. Did you know that Frank Sondors grew Salesforge.ai, a cold emailing SaaS, to $2 million in ARR in just 11 months? This is one of the reasons why Estonia is one of the most popular countries for startup registration.

1. Apply for e-Residency Card

To start, visit the official e-Residency portal at eresident.gov.ee and complete the online application form. You’ll need to upload a copy of your passport, a photo, provide personal details, and explain your reasons for applying. The application fee is €100 if you opt to pick up your e-Residency card at a Service Point of the Police and Border Guard Board in Estonia. If you prefer to collect it from an Estonian embassy, the fee is €120 (€100 for the application and €20 for courier services), payable online during the application process.

After submission, a background check will be conducted, which can take several weeks. Once approved, you’ll receive an email notification, and you can then collect your e-Residency card at your chosen pickup location, either in Estonia or at the selected Estonian embassy.

2. Choose a Service Provider

To set up a company in Estonia, you need a “Service Provider” who can offer a registered address, provide a contact person service, and guide you through the process of company registration. Below are some options to consider.

• Xolo – Offers accounting and business services for e-residents and freelancers.
• Eesti Consulting – Provides services including company formation, business consulting, and support for obtaining licenses in Estonia.
• 1Office – Specializes in company formation, accounting, and legal services.
• Comistar – Offers company registration, accounting, and legal advisory services.
• Silva Hunt – Provides accounting, tax advisory, and company formation services.
• E-Residency Hub – Assists with company formation and management for e-residents.
• Incorporate in Estonia – Offers company formation and virtual office services.

After setting up the company, you will receive corporate documents such as the Certificate of Incorporation (COI), Registry Card, Apostille, and Certificate of Good Standing. With this strong documentation, you can confidently say ‘Goodbye’ to problems with opening a bank account.

3. Launch a Bank Account

Once your company is registered in Estonia, the next crucial step is to open a bank account. This is essential for managing your business finances and facilitating transactions. You’ll need to choose a bank that aligns with your business needs and offers the services you require. Many Estonian banks offer digital banking solutions, making it easier to manage your account remotely. To open an account, you’ll typically need to provide documentation such as your company registration details, proof of identity, and possibly a business plan. Some banks may also require a personal visit to complete the process. Ensure you select a bank that supports international transactions if you plan to do business globally.

Here are some examples of bank account options for Estonian companies:

1. WISE (formerly TransferWise) – Offers multi-currency accounts with international transfer capabilities and low fees.
2. Revolut – Provides business accounts with features for managing multiple currencies, expense management, and global transfers.
3. Payoneer – Enables businesses to receive payments, make transfers, and manage funds across various currencies.
4. Paysera – Offers a range of financial services including business accounts, international transfers, and payment processing.

Additional options:

5. LHV Bank – A major Estonian bank offering comprehensive banking services for businesses.
6. SEB Bank – Provides business accounts, loans, and various financial services to Estonian companies.
7. Swedbank – Offers business banking solutions, including account management and financing options.
8. TBB Bank – Provides banking services tailored to small and medium-sized enterprises in Estonia.
9. Danske Bank – Offers business accounts and financial services with international transaction capabilities.
10. Nordea – Provides a range of banking services including business accounts and corporate financing.

These options offer various features to suit the needs of businesses operating in Estonia and beyond.

Advantages of Having an SEO Company in Estonia

Estonia offers a range of benefits for establishing an SEO company, making it an attractive destination for digital entrepreneurs. Here’s why:

1. 0% Corporate Tax on Retained Earnings: Estonia provides a unique tax advantage with its 0% corporate tax on retained earnings. This means that if your company reinvests its profits into the business rather than distributing them as dividends, you won’t pay any corporate tax on those profits. This policy encourages growth and investment within the company, helping you scale your operations more effectively.
2. Simplified Accounting for Non-VAT Registered Businesses: If your company is not registered for VAT, you can manage your own bookkeeping using user-friendly software such as SimplBooks. This allows you to keep track of your finances without needing extensive bookkeeping services. You would only need to hire an accountant for an annual review, which can be cost-effective and straightforward.
3. List Your Company on the e-Residency Marketplace: By adding your profile to the e-Residency Marketplace, you can enhance your visibility and attract potential clients and partners. This platform connects e-residents and global entrepreneurs, providing a valuable networking and business development opportunity.
4. Join the Koda Association: Becoming a member of the Koda Association offers numerous benefits, including the chance to connect with other businesses and professionals in Estonia. This association provides a network for sharing insights, gaining industry knowledge, and building relationships with other clients and entrepreneurs.

By taking advantage of these opportunities, you can maximize the benefits of operating an SEO company in Estonia and position your business for success in the global market.

About Paweł Krok

Pawel Krok (PR: contact@eesticonsulting.ee) is a respected expert in business consulting and corporate management. At Eesti Consulting, he helps lead important projects and build international connections. With a strong background in finance and planning, Pawel is committed to promoting sustainable business practices and global economic growth. His recent work with the World Bank shows his dedication to tackling global issues and making a positive impact.