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The Estonian government has approved draft legislation that would ban most Russian and Belarusian citizens from purchasing real estate in the country on national security grounds, UATV English reports.
Under the proposed law, the restrictions would apply to Russian and Belarusian citizens who do not hold long-term resident status or permanent residence permits in Estonia, as well as to companies controlled by such individuals.
According to the government, the measure is intended to reduce the risk of real estate being used for intelligence activities, sabotage, or other actions that could threaten Estonia’s national security.
The legislation would authorize the government to designate countries whose citizens or companies may pose security or public order risks when acquiring property. Russia and Belarus are expected to be the first countries included on the list.
The restrictions would cover land plots, apartments, development rights, and the acquisition of shares in real estate. The law would not apply retroactively, meaning property already owned by Russian or Belarusian citizens would not be affected. Individuals holding long-term resident status or permanent residence rights in Estonia would also be exempt.
Interior Minister Igor Taro said the legislation is designed to prevent individuals from circumventing the restrictions by establishing companies in Estonia or other countries.
“It is important to look not only at where a company is registered, but also at who actually controls it and in whose interests the property is being acquired,” Taro said.
The bill will now be considered by Estonia’s parliament. If approved, the new restrictions are expected to take effect on January 1, 2027.
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