“Russia has shown that it uses all means to achieve its goals—from military force to intelligence, influence, and sabotage. Real estate could provide an opportunity to establish permanent bases in Estonia, gather intelligence, or prepare for operations near strategic facilities. “The Estonian state is not obligated to allow citizens of aggressor states and companies under their control to acquire real estate here without restrictions,” the Estonian website novayagazeta.ee quotes Interior Minister Igor Taro as saying .
The law is not retroactive and does not revoke existing property ownership. The ban also does not apply to citizens of Russia and Belarus who hold a long-term residence permit or the right of permanent residence in Estonia. Renting or leasing real estate remains permitted.
In justified exceptional cases, the government may authorize the purchase of real estate if the transaction does not undermine the purpose of the restriction.
The law is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.
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