Based on helping 100+ entrepreneurs register companies in Estonia, I can tell you the process is straightforward — but only if you prepare the right inputs (name, address, contact person, banking, and documents). Most “registration problems” are not legal problems; they’re operational mistakes that delay approval. See also: Best Accounting Software Estonia 2026: Complete Comparison.
This guide shows the step-by-step process for 2026, with practical notes for e-residents: what you need, what it costs, and what to do after the company exists on paper.
This guide explains register OÜ in Estonia step by step and highlights the practical decisions that reduce risk in 2026.
What is an OÜ?
OÜ (osaühing) is a private limited company in Estonia. It’s the most popular structure for startups and e-residents because it combines limited liability with a very business-friendly corporate tax system. Key features:
- Share capital (commonly €2,500)
- Limited liability protection
- Can be owned by non-residents
- 0% corporate income tax on retained earnings
- Annual reporting required
What you need before you start
- Estonian e-Residency or Estonian ID (if resident)
- Company name (must be unique)
- Legal address in Estonia
- Contact person (commonly required for e-residents/non-residents)
- Board member details
- Plan for banking and share capital deposit
Step-by-step OÜ registration (2026)
Step 1: Check company name availability
Search the Business Register at ariregister.rik.ee. Avoid names that are too similar to existing companies.
Step 2: Prepare the company’s address and contact person
You need an Estonian legal address. If you’re an e-resident, a contact person is typically required — most founders use a professional provider to avoid formal mistakes.
Step 3: Handle banking and share capital
Many founders underestimate this step. In practice, the “slow part” is not Business Register — it’s banking. Options often include:
- LHV: popular for digital onboarding
- Wise: fast approval in many cases, good for international business
- Traditional banks: may require additional checks or an Estonian visit
If you deposit share capital, transfer €2,500 with the reference “share capital” / “osakapital” and keep the confirmation.
Step 4: Prepare articles of association
A standard template is available via RIK services (rik.ee). Ensure shareholder and board details are correct.
Step 5: Submit registration via e-Business Register
File online through the e-Business Register (ettevotjaportaal.rik.ee):
- Upload/sign the documents
- Pay the state fee (commonly €265)
- Submit the application
Step 6: Receive the registration decision
If your submission is clean, review typically takes 1–5 business days. You’ll receive the registry code and confirmation.
Typical costs (2026)
- State fee: ~€265
- Share capital: €2,500 (if contributed)
- Legal address / contact person service: depends on provider
- Professional assistance: often €300–800 depending on complexity
The most common reasons for delays are surprisingly small: wrong details in documents, missing contact person data, or inconsistent information between the application and the bank transfer. I’ve helped 20+ founders fix “almost approved” registrations — fixing usually costs more than doing it right from day one.
After registration: next steps
- Decide on VAT registration (mandatory vs voluntary)
- Set up accounting and document flow
- Open/finish your business banking setup
- Register as employer if hiring
FAQ: Registering an OÜ in Estonia
Can an e-resident register an OÜ fully online?
Yes. With a working e-Residency card and access to the e-Business Register, you can register online. The main bottleneck is usually banking and share capital deposit.
How long does OÜ registration take in Estonia?
Business Register review often takes 1–5 business days. Total timeline depends on banking and document readiness, so many founders complete everything in 1–3 weeks.
Do I need a contact person and legal address in Estonia?
A legal address is required. A contact person is commonly required for e-residents/non-residents. Most founders use a provider that bundles these services.
Should I register for VAT immediately?
Not always. VAT registration depends on your turnover, business model, and cross-border transactions. It can be beneficial, but it should be planned.
See also: How to Choose an Accountant in Estonia: Expert Guide for 2026.
After registration: the first 30 days checklist
Registering is only step one. In my practice, the first month is where companies either build a clean accounting system — or create months of cleanup work later.
- Set up invoicing + document storage (one place for contracts, invoices, receipts).
- Decide who closes the month and when (a fixed monthly checklist).
- Check whether VAT registration is needed and plan the workflow if you become VAT‑registered.
- Set payroll/contractor routines (TSD by the 10th if applicable).
For scope and pricing of monthly accounting, see: Accounting services for OÜ in Estonia.
Conclusion
Estonia makes company registration efficient, but the best results come from preparation: name check, correct documents, reliable address/contact person, and a clear banking plan. If you want to avoid delays, treat registration like a small project, not a form.
Need help registering your OÜ? Accres can handle registration, legal address/contact person setup, and first-year accounting. Contact us.