Prikhodko&Partners
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International corporate law
Business Setup and Support in Estonia BUY A READY BUSINESS (COMPANY) IN ESTONIA

Taras Miroshnychenko

Head of International Corporate Law and Fintech Practice

E-mail

miroshnychenko@prikhodko.com.ua

Phone numbers

Expert in fintech, crypto, and international corporate law with over 20 years of experience. Specializes in crypto licensing (VASP/CASP), iGaming business support, and international structuring, asset protection, and OSINT analytics for risk assessment and due diligence.

BUY A READY BUSINESS (COMPANY) IN ESTONIA

Purchasing a ready-made company in Estonia has become a popular solution for entrepreneurs seeking to quickly enter the European market.

This European Union member state offers a unique combination of modern digital infrastructure, a loyal tax system and minimal bureaucracy, making it an ideal platform for conducting international business.

Prikhodko & Partners has many years of experience in this field and provides a full range of services from registering new companies to selling ready-made business structures in Estonia.

What is a ready-made company in Estonia?

A ready-made company, or so-called “shelf company”, is a previously registered legal entity that has not carried out active activities and has been prepared for further sale.

Such companies have a clean reputation, all necessary documents and are fully ready for immediate use by the new owner.

The most common form is a limited liability company (Osaühing or OÜ), which meets international LLC standards.

Key advantages of purchasing a ready-made company

The time savings are undoubtedly the most significant advantage of this approach. Instead of the weeks or months it takes to register a new company, you can start business activities almost immediately after the deal is closed. This is especially important for entrepreneurs working in dynamic industries where speed to market is a critical success factor.
Reputational advantages should also not be underestimated. A company with a history, even if it has been inactive, creates an impression of stability and reliability among potential partners and customers. Corporate “maturity” can play an important role in negotiations with large corporations or obtaining credit lines from banks.
Practical benefits include a ready-made tax number, the ability to process transactions remotely, and the potential to apply for a business visa or residence permit. Most importantly, it provides immediate access to the European Union’s single market with its over 450 million consumers.

Unique tax opportunities

The Estonian tax system is one of the most progressive in the world. The zero tax rate on retained earnings means that a company does not pay tax on profits that are reinvested in the business. This creates a strong incentive for growth and expansion.

Purchase procedure: two ways to choose

The acquisition process can be carried out in two ways, each of which has its own characteristics.

The company “Prikhodko and Partners” accompanies clients at every stage, regardless of the chosen method of registration.

Acquisition with personal presence allows you to complete all formalities within one day at a notary in Tallinn. This option also simplifies the subsequent opening of a bank account, as banks are more loyal to clients who appear in person to register documents.
The remote procedure takes from 5 to 10 days and requires a notarized power of attorney for a representative in Estonia. The lawyers of the company “Prikhodko & Partners” provide detailed consultations on the optimal choice of registration method depending on the specific needs of the client.

A ready-made company in Estonia must meet certain requirements:

Having a legal address in Estonia
Availability of a contact person if there are no Estonian residents in the company’s management
Opening a bank account (possible acquisition of a company with an already open account)
The minimum authorized capital for an OÜ is 2500 euros. However, it is possible to register with 0 authorized capital.

The importance of checking before purchasing

Conducting a thorough due diligence is a critically important step. It is necessary to make sure that there are no hidden debts, obligations or lawsuits. Analysis of tax history and submitted reports will help to avoid unpleasant surprises in the future.

Particular attention should be paid to the reputation of the company and its previous owners. Prikhodko & Partners conducts a comprehensive check of all ready-made companies in its portfolio, guaranteeing clients their legal purity and the absence of hidden risks.

Next steps after purchase

After a successful acquisition of a company, the stage of its adjustment to the needs of the new business begins. It is possible to change the company name and types of activities in accordance with business plans. The appointment of new directors and a change in the composition of shareholders allow for a fully personalized management structure. Company

Opening a bank account, if you don’t already have one, is a priority. VAT registration may be required depending on the specifics of your business. Setting up accounting and reporting will ensure compliance with all legal requirements from day one.

Strategic value of the solution

A properly selected ready-made company can become a reliable foundation for building a successful international business, providing access to the vast European market and creating limitless opportunities for future development.

It is important to approach this process with due caution, professional support and a clear understanding of your business goals.

By entrusting this task to “Prikhodko & Partners”, you receive not only a high-quality ready-made company, but also a reliable partner for the long-term development of your business in Europe.

Is there really no corporate income tax in Estonia?

Estonia applies a deferred taxation system. This means that while profits remain in the company’s accounts or are reinvested in its development, the corporate income tax rate is exactly 0%. Tax is paid only when funds are distributed in favour of the founders.

What is the current tax rate on dividends? (Does the 14% preferential rate still apply?)

The preferential 14% tax rate on dividends was completely abolished from 1 January 2025. Currently, all distributed profits (dividends) are taxed at a single rate of 22% (calculated using the 22/78 formula on the amount of the distribution).

Can I open an account with a traditional Estonian bank remotely?

No. Traditional Estonian banks require proof of a close economic connection with the country (substance) — the presence of a genuinely leased office in Tallinn and employed resident staff. For remote businesses operating through e-Residency, the optimal and reliable solution is to use licensed payment institutions (EMIs) that provide full IBAN accounts.

Is a company required to pay a salary to its director?

Estonian law does not require a company to pay a mandatory salary to its director. If you are a tax resident of another country and do not live in Estonia, you may also be exempt from paying Estonian social tax (33%) provided that social insurance coverage in your country of actual residence is confirmed.

What are the conditions for obtaining a residence permit through business?

A successfully operating business is a lawful basis for obtaining a residence permit. The legislation requires an investment of at least EUR 65,000 in the company’s share capital for shareholders, or at least EUR 16,000 if the business is registered as a sole proprietorship.

Successful cases on the topic: