E-Residency is a secure digital identity issued by the Government of Estonia to people from anywhere in the world that provides digital access to the country’s trusted, transparent e-governance services and business environment.
E-Residency is a digital identity that provides online access only. E-Residency is not a citizenship, travel visa, or physical residency. The card does not include a photo because it is not intended for use offline, although it can be used for private sector purpose such as a loyalty card.
E-Residency is not an offshore scheme for creation of a shell company. In fact, Estonia has one of the world’s most trusted and transparent business environment due to a range of measures, including the fact that key data about Estonian companies, such as ownership and annual reports, are publicly available and verified through the use of digital signatures, while all companies run by e-residents have a registered office address and authorised contact person.