Estonia – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Estonia, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Estonia’s country code is +372, and the country operates without a trunk prefix. This is a notable practical distinction from many European nations: in countries like France or Italy, callers drop a leading zero from a regional code when dialling from overseas, but in Estonia no such adjustment is needed. The number you see is the number you dial, regardless of whether you are calling from within the country or from the other side of the world.

Landline numbers consist of seven digits, while mobile numbers may have either seven or eight digits. All Estonian mobile numbers begin with the digit 5. Landline area codes are two digits long, paired with five-digit local subscriber numbers.

To reach an Estonian number from another country, dial your international access code, then +372, followed by the complete local number. To place an international call from Estonia, begin with the exit code 00, then the destination country’s code, and finally the local number.

The table below lists area codes for the cities and regions where expats most commonly settle:

Although the single country code +372 applies throughout Estonia, regional area codes exist for landlines, particularly in larger cities. Mobile numbers are not associated with any specific city or region — they simply follow the +372 country code with a seven or eight-digit subscriber number starting with 5.

The national telecoms regulator, the Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority (TTJA), maintains official numbering plan records. Further details are available at ttja.ee.

Who are the major landline providers in Estonia, and how can you contact them?

Estonia’s fixed-line and mobile markets are each dominated by the same three major players. All three supply landline voice services alongside broadband, mobile, and television packages. Bundled deals combining voice, internet, and TV are commonplace and frequently offer better value than taking out a standalone landline subscription.

Telia, Estonia’s largest telecoms company, is Swedish-owned and was previously known as Eesti Telekom and later as EMT/Elion before rebranding as Telia Eesti in 2016. It holds the greatest share of both fixed-line and mobile customers and remains the default provider for established fixed-line infrastructure, particularly in older residential buildings and in rural parts of the country.

Elisa Eesti delivers mobile communications, fixed internet access, and entertainment services across Estonia. It is the country’s largest provider of cable and network-based entertainment and communications, covering television, internet, and telephone services. Following its consolidation with cable operator Starman in 2017, Elisa was able to expand its bundled service offering considerably.

Tele2 provides broadband services using the fibre network of power supplier Elektrilevi. Having obtained a licence for fixed-line telephony in November 2000, Tele2 has since concentrated its investment on its mobile network, choosing to supply fixed services via wholesale arrangements rather than constructing its own infrastructure.

Pricing for landline plans changes on a regular basis. Always consult each provider’s official website for up-to-date tariffs, or visit a branch to discuss your requirements in person. For consumer rights queries or provider complaints, contact the TTJA at ttja.ee.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Estonia, and how can you contact them?

The three main carriers — Telia, Elisa, and Tele2 — account for more than 98% of Estonian mobile subscribers. Mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) are not currently active in Estonia as of November 2023. Each of the three operators provides both prepaid and postpaid plans, and all three maintain websites available in English.

Telia Eesti, part of the Swedish Telia Company group, provides the broadest overall coverage in Estonia and has invested heavily in 4G/LTE services. Network reach is its primary differentiator — coverage is frequently regarded as the most comprehensive of the three operators, which is particularly valuable if you intend to travel through Estonia’s forests, bogs, and coastal regions. A benchmarking exercise conducted in September 2024 placed Telia as the top-performing carrier, with a Network Performance Score of 825 out of 1,000, ranking it among the world’s best mobile networks.

Elisa is a strong rival known for embracing new technology and entertainment products. The operator pursued an ambitious 5G rollout and frequently offers distinctive packages, such as including streaming platforms like Go3 or Viaplay within its subscriptions. Elisa Estonia reports that its 5G network now covers 70% of the population.

Tele2 has established itself as the most competitively priced option without a marked sacrifice in quality. Its tariffs are often the most aggressive, delivering large data allowances at highly competitive rates. While its network coverage has historically fallen slightly short of Telia’s in the most remote locations, this difference has narrowed substantially in recent years. For anyone living or working in cities such as Tallinn, Tartu, or Pärnu, Tele2’s network performs very well.

By late 2022, all three major operators had launched 5G services in Tallinn, Tartu, and other large cities. 4G coverage from all three is extensive across Estonia, though performance can differ between operators in certain rural areas. Consulting each operator’s coverage map before selecting a provider is advisable. In urban environments, coverage is generally excellent.

For current plan pricing and promotions, always verify directly on each provider’s official website, as tariffs are subject to frequent change. As a general guide (as of 2024), Estonia offers comparatively low data prices relative to the rest of Europe.

How do I get a landline connected in Estonia?

Arranging a fixed-line telephone connection in Estonia is a relatively uncomplicated process, especially in urban areas where fibre-optic and cable infrastructure is well developed. Telecoms investment in Estonia has focused on upgrading fixed-line infrastructure, and fixed broadband subscribers are steadily transitioning from DSL to fibre as legacy copper networks are phased out. Whether you are renting or own your home, the steps to arranging a new connection are largely the same — though tenants in apartment buildings may want to confirm with their landlord whether existing cabling is already in place.

1. Choose a provider. Compare offerings from Telia (telia.ee), Elisa (elisa.ee), and Tele2 (tele2.ee). All three sites are available in English. Verify whether fibre or cable is accessible at your specific address — providers’ websites typically include address-lookup tools for this purpose.
2. Contact the provider. Select a telephone provider that meets your needs and budget, then reach out either by phone or by visiting one of their branches. All three operators have stores in Tallinn, Tartu, and other major cities.
3. Provide documentation. You will need to present identification — such as your passport or ID card — along with proof of address. Residents holding an Estonian ID card, issued after registering an address with the Population Register, will find this step particularly smooth, as the card is linked to your official address. Newcomers without an Estonian ID card can generally use a foreign passport combined with a lease agreement or utility bill as proof of address.
4. Select your plan. Decide which type of service suits you — landline, mobile, prepaid, or postpaid — and choose the plan that best fits your requirements. Bundled packages combining phone, internet, and TV are widely available and often more cost-effective than standalone voice lines.
5. Pay any installation fees. Settle any applicable installation charges and purchase a SIM card if required. Installation costs vary depending on whether new cabling needs to be laid. Ask your chosen provider for the current fee schedule at the time of enquiry.
6. Wait for installation. Allow time for the provider to complete the installation, which may take several days. In buildings where cabling already exists, activation can sometimes be carried out remotely within one to two business days. New physical installations may take longer — confirm expected timelines directly with the provider.

It is worth bearing in mind that some providers may require a minimum contract period or a credit check before approving your application. If you are newly arrived in Estonia and have not yet built up a local credit history, raising this point early in your discussions with the provider will help prevent any unwelcome surprises. For disputes or consumer protection questions, contact the TTJA at ttja.ee.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Estonia?

Acquiring a mobile SIM in Estonia — whether prepaid or on a monthly contract — is notably simple by international standards. The process is designed to get newcomers connected quickly, and there are suitable options available at every stage of the residency journey.

Getting a prepaid SIM (Kõnekaart)

Prepaid SIM cards — known locally as Kõnekaart — are sold at newsstands, kiosks, Circle K and R-Kiosk convenience stores (including two at Tallinn Ferry Terminals A and D and one at Tallinn Airport), supermarkets, other retail outlets, and the operators’ own shops. No identification or registration is required at the point of purchase. This is considerably more convenient than in countries such as Germany or Spain, where a passport must be presented and mandatory registration completed before any SIM can be activated.

Prepaid SIM cards are available from any Telia, Elisa, or Tele2 store, as well as from supermarkets, R-kiosks, petrol stations, and post offices. Prices are uniformly low and most starter kits include free minutes, texts, and a data allowance. Starter kits typically cost just a few euros.

One practical consideration: prepaid SIMs cannot be used for Mobile-ID — Estonia’s highest-level digital signature tool. Mobile-ID requires a contract plan. Given that Mobile-ID and Smart-ID are widely used for banking, e-government services, and signing documents within Estonia’s digital society, upgrading to a contract plan is strongly advisable once your residency documentation is in order.

Signing a postpaid contract

Taking out a monthly contract with a provider is a straightforward process. The easiest approach is to walk into a Telia, Elisa, or Tele2 branch and the staff will guide you through it. To sign a contract, you will generally need:

• A valid passport or Estonian ID card
• An Estonian personal identification code (isikukood) — issued when you register as a resident
• An Estonian bank account (for direct debit payment)

Whether you opt for prepaid or a contract will largely depend on how long you intend to stay in Estonia and whether you already have your Estonian ID card and personal identification code (isikukood). Tourists and short-term visitors are not excluded from prepaid options, but postpaid contracts are generally only available once you have formal residency and official identification.

Browse the plans offered by Telia, Elisa, and Tele2 online — all three sites have English-language versions — then visit a branch of your chosen provider to complete the contract. Staff at the major city branches almost universally speak excellent English, so do not hesitate to walk into a store in Tallinn or Tartu.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Estonia?

Paying your phone bill in Estonia reflects the country’s broader digital-first approach to everyday services. The majority of customers manage their accounts entirely online or through their provider’s app, and in-person payments are far less common than in many other countries — though this option remains available for those who prefer it.

When it comes to settling your telephone bill in Estonia, a number of methods are available. You can pay in person at a provider’s store or authorised outlet, by bank transfer or online, or through automatic debit from your bank account. Many providers also support mobile payment options, such as paying through their dedicated app or via text message.

Online banking is by far the most widely used payment method in Estonia. All major Estonian banks — including SEB, Swedbank, LHV, and Coop Pank — support e-invoice (e-arve) services, which allow bills to be automatically matched and settled each month without any manual input. This functions similarly to a direct debit mandate but operates through the banking portal rather than directly through the provider. Setting up e-invoice is highly recommended and can usually be arranged at the time of signing your contract.

For prepaid services, top-up credit can be bought at R-Kiosk outlets, petrol stations, and supermarkets throughout the country, or through the provider’s own app. Recharging an Estonian mobile number from abroad without an Estonian bank account can be problematic, even though SEPA transfers from European bank accounts should theoretically be possible. Most providers do not offer credit card payment options for Estonian SIM top-ups.

It is important to settle your telephone bills promptly to avoid service interruptions or additional charges. If you find yourself unable to pay on time, contact your provider as soon as possible to discuss potential payment arrangements. Bills for postpaid contracts are generally issued on a monthly basis. If you have a complaint about billing practices, the TTJA (ttja.ee) is the relevant consumer protection authority for telecoms matters in Estonia.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Estonia as a newcomer?

EU roaming — included as standard

Under EU regulations, all plans include “Roam Like at Home,” which means you can use your data allowance, calls, and texts across any other EU member state at no additional cost. This applies to all three operators and makes travelling within the EU simple and affordable. Note that roaming in the UK has no longer been covered since February 2021 following Brexit. Telia, Elisa, and Tele2 now apply separate charges for data roaming in the UK, while calls and SMS sent from the UK are subject to higher per-minute and per-message rates than those applicable under EU roaming rules.

Number portability

Phone numbers can be transferred between operators in Estonia. If you decide to switch provider, you are entitled to take your existing number with you. Portability is managed by approaching your new provider, who handles the transfer process — there is no need to notify your previous provider beforehand. The switch is generally completed within one to two business days, which is on a par with most other EU countries.

eSIM availability

All three major operators — Telia, Elisa, and Tele2 — offer eSIM support for compatible handsets. Activation can usually be completed online or in-store, and eSIMs are increasingly favoured by newcomers arriving with unlocked devices who want to connect without delay. Check each provider’s website for up-to-date device compatibility information, as these lists are updated regularly.

Bringing your phone from abroad

Any unlocked GSM handset from abroad will work on Estonian networks. Confirming that your device supports the relevant cellular frequency bands will help ensure optimal connectivity. The vast majority of mobile phones sold globally are compatible with Estonian networks. The only possible exception is older handsets from outside Europe that lack dual-band support. Modern 4G and 5G smartphones are universally compatible.

Quality and reliability of service

Estonia’s telecoms infrastructure is world-class. According to the 2024 Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI), Estonia consistently ranks among the top EU countries for connectivity and digital public services. Fast, reliable coverage can be expected almost everywhere. If you are relocating to a rural area, consult the providers’ online coverage maps (leviala kaart) to identify which operator offers the strongest signal at your new address.

Your phone number and digital identity

An Estonian phone number is far more than a means of making calls — it is frequently linked to your Estonian ID card and to digital identity applications such as Smart-ID and Mobile-ID, which transform your smartphone into a secure tool for logging in to bank accounts and signing legal documents. This integration is unique to Estonia’s e-governance ecosystem, and obtaining a local number — ideally on a contract plan — is therefore an important early step in establishing yourself in the country.

Free public Wi-Fi

In urban areas, free high-quality Wi-Fi is readily available in cafés, shopping centres, public squares, and even on certain forms of public transport. This makes it easy to stay connected while you are sorting out your SIM card and contract during your first days in Estonia.

No public payphones

Public payphones no longer exist in Estonia. If you need to make a call within the country or internationally, you will have to use a landline at your hotel or your own mobile phone. Arranging a SIM card as soon as you arrive is therefore strongly advisable.

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Estonia?

It is not possible to port a foreign number onto an Estonian network — number portability is restricted to transfers between Estonian operators. That said, you can keep your overseas SIM active to receive incoming calls while using a local Estonian SIM for everyday needs. Many newcomers run both on a dual-SIM handset during the transitional period. Once settled, most people find an Estonian number more practical for banking, e-services, and daily life.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Estonia?

Prepaid SIM cards are available at kiosks, convenience stores, supermarkets, and operator shops without any requirement to provide identification or proof of address. For a postpaid contract, however, you will need an Estonian address and personal identification code (isikukood), both of which are obtained once you have formally registered your residence in Estonia.

How long does it take to get a mobile contract activated in Estonia?

Contract sign-ups completed in-store are typically processed on the same day. Your SIM will usually be active within a few hours of signing. Prepaid SIMs purchased at kiosks or retail outlets can be used almost immediately, with top-up credit added via a voucher code or online.

Is 5G available in Estonia, and do I need a special plan?

5G is available on premium postpaid plans from Telia since November 2020 and on Elisa since June 2022, and as of August 2024, 5G is open for all Tele2 and certain prepaid packages. A 5G-compatible device is required. Check each provider’s current plan details to confirm 5G inclusion, as availability and plan eligibility continue to evolve.

What is Smart-ID, and do I need it as an expat?

Smart-ID is a free mobile application used throughout Estonia (and the other Baltic states) as a digital identity solution. It enables you to log in to online banking, government platforms, and other services without needing a physical card reader. The app is linked to your phone number and ID. While not strictly mandatory, it greatly simplifies daily life in Estonia’s digital society and is set up through your bank or mobile operator.

Can I use my Estonian SIM abroad within the EU?

Under EU regulations, all plans include “Roam Like at Home,” allowing you to use your data, calls, and texts in any other EU country at no extra charge. This applies to postpaid plans and most prepaid plans. Always verify the specific terms of your plan with your provider, as certain budget prepaid packages may carry restrictions on roaming allowances.

What happens if I have a complaint about my telephone provider?

If you are unable to resolve a dispute directly with your provider, you can escalate the matter to Estonia’s Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority (TTJA), which has regulatory oversight of telecoms services. The TTJA website at ttja.ee provides guidance on how to submit a complaint. The authority has previously handled notable industry cases, including Telia’s practice of automatically migrating customers to higher-priced internet packages, which drew scrutiny from the TTJA.

Are there any hidden costs I should know about when signing a phone contract in Estonia?

Beyond the basic monthly service fee, additional charges may apply for services such as international calls, text messages, and data usage that exceeds your plan’s included allowance. Read all terms carefully before signing, and ask the provider specifically about minimum contract durations, early termination penalties, and automatic renewal clauses. Current pricing from all three major operators is published on their respective websites in both Estonian and English.