Closing a company in Estonia involves appointing an official liquidator residing within the country, with the voluntary dissolution method recommended for most businesses. The liquidation process for a micro-business typically spans 8-10 months, including submitting necessary documentation and fulfilling legal obligations. Prior to closure, companies must clear debts and, if applicable, terminate VAT status. While some assistance is offered at an additional fee, companies can also choose alternative service providers. Estonian companies cannot be paused or hibernated legally, but LeapIN offers a 'hibernate' plan, maintaining essential services for a reduced fee until reactivation. Remaining funds and share capital are returned tax-free after the liquidation process, once all obligations are settled and reports finalized.