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Set up a company in Estonia: Europe’s Most Innovative Hub for Business Expansion

October 30, 2024
Estonia has become a beacon for international entrepreneurs and businesses eager to expand within the EU. “I have never seen such wild speculation on tax before a Budget announcement – but there were very few tax measures announced today. In advance of the Autumn Budget, talk of a £40bn tax grab had raised severe concerns around alignment of capital gains tax (‘CGT’) to income tax, changes to the 7-year potentially exempt transfer rule for inheritance tax (‘IHT’) and increases for investors and landlords.  On Halloween eve, the new Chancellor took to the House of Commons stand and raised 94% of her £40bn target through an increase to employer’s National Insurance (‘NIC’) and a new repatriation facility for non-doms to remit overseas monies to the UK at a favourable 12% rate of tax for two tax years. The public headline from this Autumn Budget will be the £25 billion employer’s NIC increase.  From April 2025, employer’s NIC will increase by 1.2% to 15% (which is slightly lower than in 2022 when we had the 1.25% Health and Social Care Levy) – but the reduction to the threshold at which employers start paying NIC to £5,000 will be the real tax raiser, representing an additional cost of £615 per employee.  A business employing five people each earning £50,000 will face an increase to the NIC bill of over £5,500. As widely rumoured, CGT was increased with immediate effect on 30 October – but the respective increases to 18% and 24% will be welcomed by entrepreneurs and investors who were fearing something much worse.  Whilst Rachel Reeves said she wanted ‘entrepreneurs to invest in their businesses’ and retain the £1 million lifetime limit for ‘Business Asset Disposal Relief’, the tax saving will be worth a meagre £60,000 in April 2026 – a dramatic fall from grace from Entrepreneurs’ Relief which was worth up to £1 million in 2020. Private equity faces a 4% increase to 32% on capital gains on carried interest from April 2025; but the carried interest regime will be brought within the scope of income tax and NIC from April 2026, so it is more like a 6% increase. Some non-doms were optimistic that the Government would go back to the drawing board on Jeremy Hunt’s Spring Budget announcements – but there was no such good news as the reforms are going ahead in largely the same form as previously announced.  The only good news for non-doms is that the tax rate for the temporary repatriation facility is confirmed at 12% for 2025/26 and 2026/27, with the Government now projecting to raise £12.7bn from these refined measures.  I expect many non-doms to carefully consider their future in the UK given the severe IHT impact of the reforms, which may dampen the additional tax revenue the Government expects to raise.  Fiscal black hole anyone? Family businesses will be scratching their heads around what to do given the cap to Business Property Relief of £1 million and a 50% discount thereafter - but they have until April 2026 to work something out (but they will need to watch out for some anti-forestalling measures for lifetime transfers made from today). So, the Autumn Budget may not have been as scary as expected...but the Prime Minister and the Chancellor are not ruling out more tax frights in the Spring.”

Estonia has become a beacon for international entrepreneurs and businesses eager to expand within the EU.

When you set up a company in Estonia, you gain access to an unmatched digital infrastructure, a transparent tax system, and the renowned e-Residency program. Estonia’s efficient, tech-forward environment makes it an ideal base for entering the European market.

Why Choose Estonia for Your Business Incorporation?

Estonia’s dynamic and inclusive approach to business stands out across Europe. From small startups to global corporations, companies can benefit from a transparent and tech-driven environment that places minimal restrictions on innovation and growth.

e-Residency Program: An Innovative Solution for Global Entrepreneurs

Estonia is the world’s first country to introduce e-Residency, a digital identity program that lets anyone, from any country, create and manage an Estonian business online. This allows international entrepreneurs and digital nomads to establish an EU-based company without physically relocating. With an e-Residency, business owners can sign documents, access digital banking, and file taxes remotely—features that make Estonia an ideal hub for borderless businesses.

Through the e-Residency program, Estonia is pioneering a new approach to digital business. This innovative system enables you to be an active participant in the EU market from anywhere in the world, supporting international growth and operational flexibility.

Business-Friendly and Growth-Oriented Tax System

Estonia’s corporate tax policy is uniquely structured to support business growth. Unlike most other EU countries, Estonia only taxes corporate profits when they’re distributed as dividends. This means businesses can reinvest profits into growth without facing additional tax burdens, a policy that’s particularly beneficial for startups and high-growth companies.

This tax structure not only saves resources but also simplifies compliance, with clear regulations that reduce bureaucratic red tape. Estonia’s commitment to making business as straightforward as possible allows companies to channel their efforts and funds toward expansion rather than navigating complex tax rules.

Direct Access to the European Single Market

Establishing a company in Estonia provides immediate access to the EU single market, allowing your business to operate seamlessly across all EU member states. With Estonia’s efficient digital infrastructure and commitment to regulatory transparency, compliance with EU standards is simplified. By choosing Estonia, you position your business to take advantage of unrestricted trade, reliable consumer protection standards, and a stable economic environment.

Estonia’s adherence to high digital standards also minimizes operational obstacles, making cross-border transactions and partnerships within the EU simple and efficient. This ease of market entry, combined with Estonia’s digital-first approach, offers entrepreneurs a competitive edge in Europe.

Fast and Affordable Incorporation Process

Incorporating a business in Estonia is both quick and cost-effective. The application process, managed through a digital platform, typically takes just a few days to complete. For those with an e-Residency, the entire setup can be done online, eliminating the need for lengthy paperwork or in-person visits. Even if you aren’t an e-Resident, local agents and consultants can assist you in navigating the process with ease.

In Estonia, the government’s emphasis on digital efficiency means that setting up a company doesn’t drain resources or time. This allows you to dedicate more of your budget to core business activities rather than administrative expenses. For many, this streamlined process is one of the primary advantages of choosing Estonia as their business base in the EU.

World-Leading Digital Infrastructure

Estonia’s reputation as a digital leader extends beyond its e-Residency program. With services like secure digital identification, online public services, and efficient communication between state authorities, Estonia has built an environment where businesses can operate at peak efficiency. In fact, Estonia’s entire government infrastructure is digital, making it easier for business owners to manage compliance, taxation, and regulatory needs online.

Additionally, Estonia’s investment in cybersecurity ensures that businesses can operate in a secure digital environment. This level of security and accessibility attracts international businesses that rely on digital processes and prioritize data protection.

What’s the Process to Set Up a Company in Estonia?

  1. Apply for e-Residency (Optional but Recommended): This digital identity allows you to register and manage your Estonian company online. Once approved, you’ll receive a digital ID card, which grants access to Estonia’s digital services.
  2. Register Your Company Online: Using Estonia’s e-Business Register, you can complete the process of company registration in just a few hours. You’ll need to provide basic company details, appoint a local contact person, and pay a registration fee.
  3. Open a Bank Account (Digital or Physical): Depending on your business needs, you can open an account with a digital bank or a traditional bank that operates in Estonia.
  4. Start Operating and Access EU Markets: With your company incorporated, you can operate across the EU, enjoying benefits like simplified tax compliance and trade access.
About Eesti Firma

At Eesti Firma, we specialize in guiding entrepreneurs and businesses through the process of establishing a company in Estonia. With years of experience, our team provides comprehensive support at every stage, from choosing the right business structure to navigating Estonia’s digital requirements and tax benefits. Our goal is to make setting up and managing your Estonian business as smooth and efficient as possible, allowing you to focus on growth and expansion in the European Union. Trust Eesti Firma to help you unlock new opportunities in one of Europe’s most innovative business hubs.

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Set up a company in Estonia: Europe’s Most Innovative Hub for Business Expansion