The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn is a stunning example of Estonia ‘s rich history and architecture. In 2023, Estonia welcomed over 19,000 Indian tourists looking to explore this Baltic gem.
Before you can embark on your Estonian adventure, you will need to visit a visa application centre to verify your identity and documents. Are you wondering how to book Estonia visa appointment?
In this article, you will find a detailed breakdown of the Estonia visa appointment process in India that you need to know.
Suggested Read: Estonia Visa Photo Requirements for Indians
How to Schedule an Estonia Visa Appointment?
Booking your Estonia visa appointment is a crucial step in the visa application process. Here’s a detailed guide on how to schedule your Estonia visa interview.
Online Steps to Book an Estonia Visa Appointment
Follow these steps to book your Estonia visa appointment online:
Step 1: Complete Your Visa Application Online
You cannot schedule an Estonia visa appointment unless you have completed your short-stay visitor visa application on the official VFS Global website for Estonia.
Step 2: Book Your Visa Appointment
After completing your visa application, you will be automatically directed to book an appointment at your nearest Visa Application Center (VAC). You can also log in with your reference number (mentioned in your application) and email ID. You will have up to 90 days to book an appointment after submitting the application.
Step 3: Select Services
Choose from available premium services, such as Prime Time Appointment (apply for your visa outside standard hours) or Courier Return (get your passport/documents delivered to your home). If you want just the standard service, click on ‘Book An Appointment.’
Step 4: Book an Estonia Visa Slot Online
Next, choose the date and time from the displayed slots, depending on Estonia visa appointment availability, and confirm your selection.
Step 5: Upload Documents
After completing the payment process for your Estonia visa appointment, you will receive a confirmation of the appointment in your email.
- A direct link to upload the documents will also be included in the email.
- You can also access the link from the ‘My Application’ tab on your profile dashboard, where you can track, amend, or reschedule your Estonia visa appointment.
- Drag and drop PDF files of the necessary documents and click on ‘Submit Documents’.
- Keep in mind that you are responsible for uploading all necessary documents correctly. If you need guidance, you can choose the Document Upload Assistance service at the VAC, which is chargeable.
Steps to Follow at the Visa Application Center (VAC)
After your online application for an Estonia visa appointment is done, here are the steps to follow at the VAC:
Step 1: Arrive on Time
Arrive 15 minutes before the given appointment time. Keep in mind that you must attend in person and cannot send someone else.
Step 2: Submit Biometrics
Wait your turn and submit your biometrics to the VAC officer. A digital scanner will collect the impressions of all 10 fingerprints. Your fingertips should not have cuts, bruises, or adornments like mehendi.
You will have a digital photo taken, for which you will need to have your full face on display without sunglasses, tinted spectacles, heavy makeup, or any headgear that is not required for religious or medical reasons.
Exemptions:
- Children under 12 years old are exempt from providing fingerprints
- Those medically unable to provide fingerprints must provide a doctor’s certificate
Step 3: Submit Documents
If you have purchased ‘Assisted Service’ for document submission, you must bring the originals or good-quality copies of your supporting documents to the Visa Application Center.
Offline Process
There is no offline process for scheduling Estonia visa application appointments. The entire Estonia visa booking procedure must be done online.
Which Locations are Available in India for a Estonia Visa Appointment?
Following are some of the Estonia Visa Application Centers in top cities where you can get an Estonia visa appointment for Indians:
New Delhi
Address: Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Mezzanine Level, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Mumbai
Address: Urmi Axis Building, Behind Famous Studio, Near E. Moses Road, Mahalaxmi (West), Mumbai – 400011
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Bengaluru
Address: Global Tech Park, O’ Shaugnessy Road, Langford Town, Bengaluru – 560025
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Chennai
Address: Fagun Towers, 2nd Floor, No.74, Ethiraj Salai, Egmore, Chennai – 600008
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Find more Estonia Visa Application Centers here.
What are the Documents Needed for a Estonia Visa Appointment?
Following are the required documents for an Estonia visa appointment for Indians:
- Printout of the appointment confirmation letter verifying the details of your appointment
- Valid passport (minimum validity of 3 months beyond the intended stay, with at least 2 blank pages)
- Completed and signed visa application form
- One recent passport-sized color photo with a light background
- Travel medical insurance with minimum coverage of €30,000
- Proof of accommodation in Estonia
- Flight reservation for a round trip
- Proof of financial means (bank statements for the last 3 months)
- Please note that all documents must be in A4 size papers.
Additional Documents (If applicable)
- If employed: Employment contract, leave permission, income tax returns, payslips for last 3 months
- If self-employed: Certificate of registration of the company, company’s bank statement for last 3 months, income tax returns
- If student: Proof of enrollment, no-objection certificate from school/university
How Long Do I Have to Wait for a Estonia Visa Appointment in India?
The Estonia visa appointment waiting time depends on the available slots. Once your appointment is done, the current processing time for standard visitor visas is 15 calendar days. This can be extended up to 45 days in some cases.
Suggested Read: Estonia Visa Rejection for Indians
Preparing for the Interview
Now that you know how to schedule an Estonia visa appointment, find out how to ace the interview as well.
What questions can I expect during my Estonia visa interview?
- Why do you want to visit Estonia?
- How long do you plan to stay in Estonia?
- When and how do you plan to return to your home country?
- Do you have enough finances to support your stay in Estonia?
- Have you visited Estonia before, and if yes, why?
- Do you have travel insurance?
- Where do you intend to stay in Estonia during your visit?
- Can you communicate in English?
What is the Dress Code for Estonia Visa Appointment?
There is no strict dress code for Estonia visa appointments. Dress neatly and professionally, opting for business casual attire. Avoid overly flashy or casual clothing. Make sure your face is fully visible for the photograph. Do not wear any eyewear or headwear unless for religious or medical reasons.
What are the Tips for a Successful Estonia Visa Appointment?
- Ensure your online application form is correctly filled out.
- Upload all the necessary documents if you have chosen self-service.
- Carefully review and organize the documents if you plan on submitting them at the VAC.
- Arrive 15 minutes early to the appointment.
- Dress professionally.
- Answer questions honestly and clearly.
- Double-check Visa Application Center rules and special requirements, if any apply to you.
Suggested Read: How to Check Estonia Visa Status Online
Post-Interview: What are the Next Steps?
- Check Estonia visa appointment status by logging in with your registered email and password here.
- Keep an eye on emails or SMS updates from the Visa Application Center.
- Respond to any requests for further information or clarification to avoid delay.
- Once processing is complete, you will receive a notification to pick up your passport or it will be sent to you by courier (depending on your chosen delivery option).
- Once you receive your passport, check the visa sticker for errors, including personal details, validity dates, and conditions.
- In case of any errors, contact the VAC immediately.
Suggested Read: Estonia Visa Extension for Indians
FAQs
1. Is it mandatory to visit the center personally? Can I send a representative to the application center on my behalf?
No, you have to attend the Estonia Visa Application Center yourself. You cannot send a representative on your behalf.
2. How early should I apply for an Estonia visa appointment?
You can apply as early as right after your online visa application is submitted. You will have 90 days to book the appointment after submission.
3. What is the waiting time for an Estonia visa appointment?
A standard visa takes around 15 calendar days to process after your Estonia visa appointment. This can extend up to 45 days in some cases.
4. What questions can I expect during my Estonia visa interview?
You can expect questions on your purpose of visit, accommodation, return dates, financial status, etc. during your Estonia visa interview.
5. Is there any dress code for the Estonia visa appointment?
You should dress in business casual attire and ensure that your appearance is neat and professional.
6. What steps can I take to avoid cancellation of my Estonia visa appointment?
First and foremost, show up to your appointment on the scheduled date and time. If you cannot, you can reschedule up to 5 days before the appointment date. If you miss your appointment, you can book a new one.
7. Can I reschedule my Estonia visa appointment?
Yes, you can reschedule your Estonia visa appointment up to 5 days before the scheduled date.
8. What is the process for requesting an expedited Estonia visa appointment?
The fastest way to book an Estonia visa appointment is to choose the available premium services like Prime Time Appointment. However, the visa processing time will remain the same. There is no separate expedited process.
9. Do babies need separate appointments for Estonia visa applications?
Yes, babies need separate appointments for their Estonia visa applications. Children under 12 do not need to give their fingerprints but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
10. What happens if I arrive late for an Estonia visa appointment in India?
If you are more than 15 minutes late to your Estonia visa appointment in India, you will need to book a new appointment. Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early.
11. What is the easiest way to get an Estonia visa slot for an interview?
The easiest way to book a Estonia visa slot online is to complete your visa application and follow the steps to schedule a slot on your preferred date and time, subject to availability.
12. Is an Estonia biometric appointment mandatory?
Yes, booking an appointment to provide biometrics is mandatory for obtaining an Estonia visa, unless you are exempt because of age or certain medical conditions.
