19.06.2026
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Students from Latin American countries can apply locally for Estonian long-stay visas

Student from Mexico
International Student Ambassador Alumni Paola from Mexico
Author: Andrea Rotenberg

International students from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia and Mexico can now submit Estonian long-stay (D) visa applications through VFS Global Visa Centres in their countries. The change makes it easier for admitted and prospective University of Tartu students from Latin American countries to plan their studies and arrival in Estonia.

According to the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, students can submit long-stay visa applications at VFS Global Visa Centres in Buenos Aires, Bogotá, Mexico City, Santiago, São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Brasília. The centres receive visa applications and forward the documents to the Estonian Embassy in Washington for processing.

The new option is useful for students who previously had to travel farther to submit their visa application in person. Currently, 42 students from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia and Mexico, and 15 students from other Latin American countries study at the University of Tartu. Another 16 students from Latin America are expected to start their studies in September 2026.

What admitted students should do

Admitted non-EU/EEA students should start preparing their visa application as soon as they receive the official admission letter from the University of Tartu. Students should check the University of Tartu’s Visa and residence permit guide, the instructions of the Embassy of Estonia in Washington and the information provided by the VFS Global Visa Centre where they plan to apply.

The University of Tartu gives admitted students guidance on whether they need a D visa only or must also apply for a temporary residence permit (TRP) for studies after arriving in Estonia. The requirements may depend on the student’s study programme. For questions about visas and residence permits, contact UT student visa support at [email protected].

What prospective applicants should know

Prospective applicants from Latin American countries can take the new visa application option into account when planning their studies at the University of Tartu. A student visa application requires confirmation of admission, so applicants should first choose a suitable degree programme and check the admission requirements, deadlines, tuition fees and visa information.

The University of Tartu offers English-taught degree programmes at bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral level. Applicants should always check the programme page for the most accurate admission information.

Prepare for arrival in Tartu

Students who have been admitted to the University of Tartu should also read the university’s Getting started guide and Arrival ABC. These pages help new international students prepare for their studies, arrival, accommodation and first steps in Estonia.

New international students are also invited to attend the orientation course, which introduces university life, studies and practical matters related to living in Tartu. Students are advised to plan their travel and accommodation early.