Riigitasud

Riigitasud, often translated as state fees or public charges, are payments made to the state or state-authorized institutions for services rendered or for the exercise of certain rights. These fees are distinct from taxes, which are generally levied for the general funding of public services without a direct quid pro quo. Riigitasud are typically applied when an individual or entity directly benefits from a specific state service or when a license or permit is granted.

Examples of riigitasud include fees for obtaining passports, registering a company, issuing building permits, or for court proceedings. The purpose of these fees is often to cover the administrative costs associated with providing the service or granting the right. In some cases, the fees may also serve a regulatory function by discouraging frivolous applications or ensuring that those who benefit most from a service contribute to its upkeep. The specific riigitasud applicable in a country, their amounts, and the procedures for their collection are usually stipulated in national legislation and administrative regulations. They form a part of the broader public finance system, contributing to state revenue but with a more direct link to the services provided.