In 2014, Estonia became the first country in the world to introduce an e-Residency program, allowing foreigners to obtain a digital identity and access state services, particularly for business purposes. This enabled entrepreneurs worldwide to establish companies in Estonia, manage them remotely, and operate within European markets.
Estonian e-Residency in Numbers (2025):
- Over 122,300 e-residents from more than 170 countries
- 33,800 businesses registered by e-residents
- In 2024, the program contributed over €31 million in tax revenue to Estonia
- Access to 500+ financial and legal service providers to support business operations
From the official e-Residency Dashboard
Lithuania’s e-Residency in 2025: Features & Limitations
Lithuania launched its e-Residency program in 2021. It is still under development but already offers digital identity solutions for non-residents. The main difference between the Lithuanian and Estonian programs lies in their functionality.
What Does Lithuania’s e-Residency Offer?
- Access to government e-services, including tax and administrative services.
- Digital signature: e-residents can sign documents online and use them for business operations.
- eIDAS compatibility, ensuring that Lithuania’s digital signature meets European security standards.
Limitations of Lithuania’s e-Residency in 2025. Unlike Estonia, Lithuania does not yet allow e-residents to:
- Register companies online.
- Open bank accounts.
- Obtain tax residency in Lithuania.
Additionally, the application process requires the applicant’s physical presence in Lithuania, making it less convenient for international entrepreneurs.
Lithuania aims to expand e-Residency opportunities by introducing:
- Online business registration for e-residents.
- Integration with international financial services to facilitate bank account opening.
- Enhanced support for foreign entrepreneurs through state advisory centers.
Comparison of Estonia and Lithuania’s e-Residency Programs (2025)
|
Feature |
Estonia |
Lithuania |
|
Online application |
✅ Yes |
❌ No (physical presence required) |
|
Application fee |
€100 – €130 |
€90 |
|
Number of e-residents |
122,300+ |
No official data |
|
Access to government e-services |
✅ Full access |
✅ Limited access |
|
Digital signature |
✅ eIDAS-compatible |
✅ eIDAS-compatible |
|
Online company registration |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
|
Bank account opening |
✅ Possible |
❌ No |
|
Access to the tax system |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
|
Entrepreneur support |
✅ Extensive ecosystem |
⚠️ Limited support |
|
Application processing time |
3–8 weeks |
1–2 weeks |
|
Ease of doing business index |
18th place |
11th place |
Which to Choose in 2025: Estonia or Lithuania?
-
Estonia – for those who want a complete Digital Business Experience
If you need remote access to the European market, online company registration, banking, and tax benefits, Estonia’s e-Residency is the best choice. Get an e-Residency application status in a few minutes.
- Lithuania – for those seeking a basic EU Digital Identity Solution
Lithuania does not yet allow company registration or financial services for e-residents. However, it may be suitable for those who need a digital signature and access to government e-services. With planned expansions, Lithuania might offer more features in the coming years.
Estonia and Lithuania offer e-Residency, but Estonia’s program is significantly more advanced and suitable for those wanting to run a business online. Lithuania, on the other hand, is still in the early stages and has several limitations. Estonia is the clear choice if you want to take full advantage of digital entrepreneurship now. However, if your priority is access to Lithuanian state services and a secure digital signature, Lithuania’s e-Residency is also worth considering.
Finevolution is an official e-Residency Marketplace Estonia partner and will be happy to provide you with professional advice on obtaining an e-Residency and registering a business. Our team will be happy to provide consultation on matters relevant to you. We are available Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. To receive a consultation, send your request through the form below, or message us on Telegram, Viber, or WhatsApp.
