Hello I need to relocate from Slovakia to Estonia

Since you are currently working in Slovakia, the "easiest" path depends entirely on your citizenship status. The process is radically different if you are an EU citizen (e.g., Slovak national) versus a non-EU citizen holding a residence permit in Slovakia.

Scenario A: You are an EU Citizen
This is the easiest way.
As an EU citizen, you have the right to move to Estonia immediately under the freedom of movement. You do not need a visa or work permit.

Procedure: You simply travel to Estonia and register your place of residence with the local government (e.g., Tallinn city office) within 3 months of arrival.

Work: You can start working or open your restaurant immediately without any special permissions.

Business: You can establish your restaurant as a private limited company (OÜ) or sole proprietor (FIE) just like any local Estonian.

Scenario B: You are a Non-EU Citizen (with Slovak Residence)
Even if you have lived in Slovakia for 5 years, you generally cannot just move to Estonia and start working immediately. However, your time in Slovakia may give you a privileged status called "Long-Term EU Resident", which simplifies the process compared to moving from outside the EU.

1. The "Long-Term EU Resident" Status
If you have lived in Slovakia legally and continuously for 5 years, check if you have (or can get) the EU Long-Term Residence permit (this is different from a standard temporary residence permit).

Benefit: This status may exempt you from the Estonian immigration quota (which limits how many foreigners can enter each year) and simplifies labor market tests.

Requirement: You must still apply for a Temporary Residence Permit in Estonia for either work or business. You cannot simply transfer your Slovak permit to Estonia.

2. The Business Route: Opening Your Restaurant
Since you want to open a small restaurant, you can apply for a Residence Permit for Business.

The "Catch-22": For the OÜ (company) route, Estonia often requires the business to have been active for 4 months before you apply for the residence permit.

The Solution (E-Residency): You can become an e-Resident of Estonia while still in Slovakia. This allows you to register your Estonian company online, invest the money, and start operations (e.g., sign lease, buy equipment) remotely. Once the business has a 4-month track record, you apply for your residence permit to move there physically.

3. The Employment Route (Often Easiest)
If you do not have €16,000–€65,000 to invest immediately, the easiest path is to find a job first.

Procedure: Find an Estonian employer willing to hire you. They effectively sponsor your residence permit.

Salary Requirement: Your salary must meet the Estonian average (often around €1,800–€2,000 gross) to qualify for the permit.

Strategy: You could work for an existing restaurant first to learn the local market and get your residence permit, then transition to opening your own business later once you are settled.

Summary Recommendation
If you have €16,000+ to invest: Apply for the Sole Proprietor (FIE) Residence Permit. It is the most direct way to open your restaurant without needing an employer.

If you have limited capital: Secure a job offer first. It is the safest route financially and administratively.

Important: Do not confuse a standard restaurant with a "Startup." Estonia has a "Startup Visa" with no investment requirement, but traditional businesses like restaurants rarely qualify for this specific program