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Estonia (EE)

Estonia is a small but extraordinarily forward-thinking Baltic nation and EU/NATO member, celebrated worldwide as the most digitally advanced country on earth.

Capital: Tallinn
Region: Europe
Language: Estonian
Currency: EUR (€)
Cost of living: Affordable (index 55)
Emergency: 112

Currency & Money

Practical money tips for living in Estonia.

Euro
EUR

Denominations

Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2. Notes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500.

Payment Culture

Estonia is one of the most cashless societies in the world. Contactless card payment is universally accepted — from markets to taxis to tiny cafés. Mobile payments via bank apps and Google/Apple Pay are widespread. Cash (sularaha) is accepted but rarely necessary; ATMs are plentiful. ID card–based authentication is used for many digital payments and transactions. Revolut, Wise, and international cards all work seamlessly.

ATM Tips

ATMs (pangaautomaadid) are widely available. Swedbank, SEB, LHV, and Luminor ATMs are most common in Tallinn and other cities. Using your own bank's ATM avoids fees. Foreign cards work fine but may incur a 1–3% fee from your home bank.

Exchange Tips

Estonia uses the Euro — no currency exchange needed from Eurozone countries. For non-Euro currencies, use Wise or Revolut for best rates. Airport exchange bureaux have poor rates. Banks in the city centre offer reasonable exchange.

Pro tip: Best apps for expats

  • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
  • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
  • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents