Banking

Opening a bank account in Estonia can make everyday life easier, especially if you need to receive a salary or scholarship, pay rent, use local services or make online payments.

Banking requirements may differ depending on the bank and your residency status, so it is always best to check the latest information directly with the bank before visiting a branch.

Having an Estonian bank account can make everyday life easier, for example when receiving a salary or scholarship, paying rent, using local services or making online payments.

If you already have a bank account with an IBAN from another European country, you may not always need to open a separate Estonian bank account. Check with your employer, university or service provider which account details they can accept.

To open a bank account in Estonia, contact the bank directly and check its requirements before visiting a branch. Banks may ask you to provide:

  • a valid passport or another recognised identity document;
  • an Estonian ID card or residence permit card, if you already have one;
  • documents showing your connection to Estonia, such as a study certificate, employment contract, rental agreement or residence permit.

The bank may need time to review your application. Fees and conditions can vary depending on the bank and your residency status, so always check the latest information on the bank’s website.

If you are under 18, you usually cannot open a bank account on your own. Please check the bank’s requirements for minors and legal representatives.

If you are a student and need to prove your student status or use student discounts, you can apply for an ISIC student card.

On the EDUID website, you can find information about ISIC student and scholar cards, ITIC teacher cards and IYTC youth travel cards.

Some banks also offer bank cards with an ISIC function. Before choosing a card, check whether you need a bank card, a student card or both.

Several banks operate in Estonia, including LHV Pank, Luminor Pank, SEB Pank, Swedbank and Coop Pank.

Before visiting a branch, check the bank’s website for current opening hours, locations, account opening conditions and service fees.

In addition to traditional banks, some people also use international online banking or money transfer services. Before choosing a service, make sure it is reliable and that it works for the payments you need to make in Estonia.