Kriimustavad

Kriimustavad, also known as Estonia's electronic residency program, is a digital identity and authentication system designed to grant individuals and businesses the ability to access and conduct various e-governance services in Estonia.

Launched in 2002, kriimustavad is based on a digital identity system that utilizes a secure e-residency card and a digital key. This system provides users with a secure and reliable way to carry out activities such as filing taxes, participating in online voting, and engaging in business-to-government interactions.

To become an e-resident of Estonia, an individual must first obtain a kriimustavad log-in code from the Estonian e-residency landing page or a participating location. They then create an e-Residency account and receive a digital residence permit. Once registered, they are granted access to various Estonia's e-government services.

The e-residency system has gained international recognition, and as of 2020, the number of e-residents had surpassed 80,000. Estonia's kriimustavad program has also attracted attention from foreign entrepreneurs and businesses seeking to expand their operations in the Estonian market.

E-residents are not granted Estonian citizenship, but instead receive a digital residence permit. This does not give holders the right to vote, claim social benefits, or fulfill any role in Estonian public affairs.

Estonia's kriimustavad system and e-residency program have been widely regarded as innovative approaches to digital governance and e-government.