International Protection Module
The International Migration Organization (IOM), NGO Estonian Refugee Council and the Asylum, Migration, and Integration Fund (AMIF) are not responsible for the activities undertaken on the basis of the information transmitted by this publication. This material does not represent the views of the IOM nor of its financing organizations.
Compiler IOM Estonia, Ahtri 12, 10151 Tallinn, tel +372 611 6088, e-mail iomtallinn@iom.int
Design and printing: Factory Advertising OÜ
Cover photo: Eiliki Pukk, toolbox.estonia.ee
The Settle in Estonia Programme on the web: www.settleinestonia.ee
Copyright: IOM Estonia, 2021
This handbook has been reviewed and updated by Estonian Refugee Council.
Handbook version: September 2025
The project „Settle in Estonia Programme for Beneficiaries of International Protection“ is co-financed by the European Union through Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund and the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Estonia.
DEAR READER,
The material of the international protection module contains introductory and practical information necessary for you as a beneficiary of international protection in Estonia. The aim of the material is to help you navigate better in topics concerning your everyday life in Estonia. The material is complemented by the international protection module training of the Settle in Estonia Programme.
The Settle in Estonia Programme consists of various informative and interactive training modules. The programme aims to support migrants in Estonia to obtain the primary information and skills needed for starting life in Estonia. In addition to the international protection module, the Settle in Estonia Programme includes the basic module, and other thematic modules such as working, entrepreneurship and family life. Further information about the Programme can be found at www.settleinestonia. ee.
The information you find in this handbook is based on Estonian laws, and information obtained from governmental institutions, non-governmental organisations, and other public resources. Each topic includes references and contact information to institutions that you could address with specific questions and/or problems. The majority of the information referenced is available in Estonian, and most of it also in English and Russian.
We hope that this material helps you to navigate better in Estonia and guides you to relevant support and services available for you if you are in need.
HOW TO GET STARTED CHECK LIST
When you receive international protection, this is the minimum what you should do to settle in in Estonia:
You have applied for your temporary residence permit card.
You have found a place to live in (e.g flat).
You have registered your place of residence at the local government.
You are registered with a family doctor close to your home.
In case you have children, you have applied for child allowances and other family benefits.
In case you have children, you have enrolled them to kindergarten or school.
In case you are not employed, you have registered as unemployed in Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund (Eesti Töötukassa).
You have opened a bank account.
You have enrolled for language studies and are attending the classes.
Contact Police and Border Guard Board (Politsei- ja Piirivalveamet) for further information. More info in chapter 3.
If needed, ask help from the accommodation centre. More info in chapter 9.
Turn to your local government office or register electronically in the internet portal www.eesti.ee. More info in chapter 9.
Contact the closest medical centre to your home. If needed, contact The Health Board. More info in chapter 8.
Turn to your local government office. More info in chapter 7.
Contact your local kindergarten, (pre-) school or local government. More info in chapter 11.
Contact your local Töötukassa office. More info in chapter 5.
Turn to the bank of your choice. More info in chapter 12.
You are provided with free language classes. Contact "Settle in Estonia" for further information. More info in chapter 10.
If you speak English or Russian, you have also participated in the other modules of the Settle in Estonia Programme.
You have made at least one Estonian friend.
You have participated in at least in one public event in Estonia.
Information is available on the webpage www.settleinestonia.ee. More info in chapter 4.
Find something to do and network with locals. More info chapter 13 and 14.
Learn about public events, concerts, festivals etc. More info in chapter 13.
If you feel that you need help with any of the activities and/or contacting any of the institutions mentioned in the list, please approach support person provider and/or accommodation centre for additional advice. See more in chapter 4.
USEFUL VOCABULARY
i
Tere tulemast Welcome
Tere Hello!
Kuidas läheb?
How are you?
Tänan, hästi. Ja sul? I’m fine, thanks. And you?
Mis on sinu nimi? What is your name?
Minu nimi on … My name is …
Kust sa pärit oled?
Meeldiv tutvuda!
Where are you from?
Nice to meet you!
Aitäh Thank you
Palun Please
Võta heaks / Pole tänu väärt You’re welcome
Tere hommikust
Tere päevast
Tere õhtust
Head ööd
Good morning
Good afternoon
Good evening
Good night
Nägemist / head aega Goodbye
Head isu Bon appetit
Vabandage Excuse me
Andke andeks Sorry
Appi! Help!
Mul on vaja abi. I need help.
Tulekahju!/Põleb! Fire!
1. GENERAL FACTS ABOUT ESTONIA
The national coat of arms
The Estonian flag
Official name: Republic of Estonia
Type of government: Democratic parliamentary republic
Head of State: President
Legislative power: Single-chamber parliament (Riigikogu)
Executive power: The Government of the Republic headed by the Prime Minister
Surface area: 45 339 km2
Population: 1 369 995
Capital: Tallinn (460 986 residents)
Other major cities: Tartu (98 257 residents), Narva (52 058 residents) and Pärnu (51 777 residents)
Administrative distribution: 15 counties, 79 local municipalities (incl. 15 towns)
Ethnic composition: Estonians (68%), Russians (21%), other ethnicities (10%) (Ukrainians, Belarusians, Finns, Tatars and many others.)
Currency: the euro; 1 euro = 100 cents
Neighbouring countries: Finland (to the north, across the Gulf of Finland), Latvia (to the south), Russia (to the east) and Sweden (to the west across the Baltic Sea)
State language: Estonian
Other most frequently used languages of communication: Russian and English
Religion: Lutheranism and Russian Orthodoxy, although many Estonians do not associate themselves with a certain religion. Jewish and Muslim communities are also represented.
1.1. NATIONAL HOLIDAYS
i1 January, New Year
24 February, Independence Day and anniversary of the Republic of Estonia
March or April: Good Friday
March or April: Easter Sunday
1 May, Spring Holiday
May or June: Pentecost
23 June, Victory Day
24 June, Midsummer Day (St. John’s Day)
20 August, Anniversary of Restoration of Independence
24.–26 December, Christmas
On public holidays, most of the governmental services, banks, schools etc are closed. Private sector companies, including shops and restaurants, might have shorter working days. The workday before holiday might be shortened.
1.2. TRANSPORT IN ESTONIA
Estonian public transport system is good and on time. What is more, in some cases it can be even completely free. Using public transport – buses, trams and trains – is also good for the environment. The routes, schedules and stops are fixed. You can buy tickets for public transport within the city on www.pilet.ee. You can view bus timetables and find further information about routes online at www.peatus.ee. Google Maps also gives good options regarding the routes and times.
If you need to take a bus from one city to another, you can buy a ticket at the bus station and online at www.tpilet.ee You can buy train tickets online, from the railway station or on the train. You can view train timetables online and buy tickets at www.elron.ee.
If you would like to get an Estonian driving licence, you should finish the driving school and pass the theory and driving exam in Estonian Transport Administration (Transpordiamet). If you already have a driving licence issued by another country, you should change your current driving licence to Estonian driving licence by passing the theory and driving exam. Contact Transpordiamet for more information and for scheduling the exam times: www.transpordiamet.ee.
Even if you have a driving licence and international driving permit, it is strongly recommended to take few driving lessons while applying for Estonian driving licence. Through this you can surely pass the exam.
1.3. COMMUNICATIONS
Many services provided in Estonia are internet-based, and internet also helps you stay connected with your family and friends. Also, it is important to have a phone, so that you can be reached and make calls as needed.
For local internet and phone subscriptions, you could for example consider one of the following service providers in Estonia:
NB! The costs vary, thus make sure that you compare the prices prior choosing the service provider.
You can pay bills and fill in official forms online. To fully benefit from online services, you will need your residence permit card with a chip and the card reader.
The main gateway for services offered online by the state is www.eesti.ee. See more in Chapter 2.
You can also access wireless internet in most public locations like cafes, restaurants as well as bus- and train stations.
1.3.1. E-MAIL
In Estonia, it is common to communicate via e-mail. If you don't have an e-mail address, you should create one. You can use www.gmail.com, www.yahoo.com, outlook.com etc for example. E-mails are used for communication with the state and different organisations, and you will also receive your bills and other important information on your email address.
Make yourself an account and remember to check it every day, as you would do with the regular mailbox in your home.
1.3.2. POSTAL SERVICE
If you want to send a letter, you need an envelope and a stamp. You can buy these from the local post office or from R-kiosk. When the letter is ready to post, find an orange Omniva post-box on the street and put it in there.
If you want to send a package, you can do it in the post office or at a parcel terminal of Omniva, Smartpost or DPD. Parcel terminals (you can pay with card only) are more suitable for sending packages inside Estonia, but in the post office you can send the package anywhere in the world.
Most of the packages sent to you from abroad must be collected at the closest post office. You will get a notice in your mailbox, when the package has arrived.
Find your closest post office, postbox or Omniva's parcel terminal here: www.omniva. ee/private/map
1.3.3. SAFETY
In general Estonia is a safe country – we don’t have natural disasters or deadly venomous animals and the crime rate is rather low. Regardless, in case of emergency call the national emergency number 112 free of charge.
Call the emergency number if your or someone else’s life, health or property is in danger or there is reason to believe that it may be. Keep in mind that giving a false alarm may be subject to punishment.
Explain the situation and the 112 operators will notify if the police, ambulance, rescue and/or fire services. !
Answer any question concisely and precisely and do not end the call before you have been given permission to do so by the operator in 112.
In case there is some sort of other crises in the state (e.g pandemic), follow the governmental guide-lines relating to ongoing crises that are published on www.kriis.ee/en or contact free of charge state helpline 1247. 17
USEFUL VOCABULARY
i
Bussijaam Bus station
Lennujaam Airport
Rongijaam Train station
Sadam Port
Bussipeatus Bus stop
Postkontor Post office
Pakiautomaat Parcel terminal
Kiirabi Ambulance
Politsei Police
Tuletõrje Fire services
Kus on …? Where is …?
Vasak / vasakul
Parem / paremal
Otse
Left / on the left
Right / on the right
Straight ahead
NOTES
2. E-ESTONIA AND THE INTERNET
Estonia is considered one of the most advanced countries in e-services, where majority of services are available online. You will see this also throughout the upcoming chapters.
In order to enjoy the e-services one needs to have a device – computer (desktop or laptop), smartphone, tablet – and an internet connection.
For browsing the internet and/or using the e-services of the Government of Estonia and local municipalities and/or other institutions, we would recommend using the following browsers: Google Chrome , Firefox or Microsoft Edge .
Occasionally, when you are visiting some websites with older technologies, Microsoft Edge might lead you to Internet Explorer . In this case, click on the button that opens a new window.
Internet is endless, so there are lots of interesting webpages to visit according to your interest. To find interesting webpages, use search engines. The most popular search engine in Estonia is Google (google.com).
In most cases the wireless internet is available everywhere and/or you can also have internet on your phone via the SIM card.
Note that there are also free of charge internet points available in local libraries, where you can use public computers, the internet and print and scan if needed. You can ask support from the librarian. Note that the session times in libraries might be limited and you are not allowed to install any programmes or download large sized files.
Don’t forget to log out of your accounts when you are using a public or shared computer!
When you get Estonian digital identity, you will also automatically get a personal Estonian e-mail address youridentificationcode@eesti.ee. You will receive official notifications by the state institutions on this email address. We suggest you to change the settings so that these e-mails would be automatically sent to your personal e-mail that you use every day.
2.1. E-SERVICES
For most of the e-services you would need to use your electronic ID (eID), which you obtain together with your residence permit card – the chip on the card. Also, you would need an ID card reader and DigiDoc4: which you can download/install from www.id.ee/en per instructions provided over there.
Don’t forget that you need to be connected to the internet. For e-services we suggest using Google Chrome or Firefox as the eID functions run smoothly there. When using e-services, you usually need to log in using PIN1 and use PIN2 when confirming an action or signing documents digitally. The PIN- codes have been issued to you with the residence permit card.
Keep your PIN-codes and documents safe and do not share them with anybody! Not even with your family members, close friends or employer. You can write down your PIN- and PUK-codes, but again be extremely careful, don’t keep the notes near your card or in any other common places (in your wallet, near your computer, under the keyboard, attached to your phone or in your phone notes marked as “PIN codes”.
If you have forgotten or lost your PIN-codes, contact the Police and Border Guard Board office to get new ones.
In addition to the eID linked with your residence permit card, you can also use:
• Smart-ID: you need to have smartphone and the SMART ID application downloaded from google play or App store. You need to authenticate your account online or via bank. More information www.smart-id.com
• Mobile-ID: you need to have a SIM-card with Mobile ID functionality (obtain it for example from Elisa, Telia, or Tele2). You need to activate your Mobile ID on www.politsei.ee/en. For Mobile ID you would need to pay monthly fee of 1 EUR.
You can access most of the state services and/or information on them via the state portal www.eesti.ee. For personalized information you need to log in first.
While you are logged in, you can view your health insurance and family physician, your Estonian documents, information about your home and vehicles, and much more!
Other important and more frequently used e-services by the state: i i
• E-population registrer - www.rahvastikuregister.ee - through which you can check your data on your residence. NB it’s your obligation to keep the data up to date. Note that registration of place of residence is basis for very many services. Thus, do it as one of the top priorities.
• Health Portal – www.terviseportaal.ee/en/ – through which you can check who is your GP (if you have one), if you have valid insurance, recent health incidents/check-ups, prescriptions, sick leave notifications etc.
Many other public institutions like Social Insurance Board (Sotsiaalkindlustusamet), Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund (Töötukassa) etc have their e-services, which can be accessed through their websites.
A lot of private sector companies also offer online e-services. All banks allow internet banking, if you did not opt for internet banking while opening the account, you should re-consider. This allows you to keep an eye on your daily money matters.
Do not forget to log out after you finish! It is also recommended to close all internet browser’s windows after exiting the internet bank.
Each person in Estonia has the right to control the data about them and it cannot be used without person’s permission unless there is a reason for it. There are strict rules regarding the processing of personal data. Personal data is all kind of information that helps to identify you and it can include name, location, identification number, phone number, workplace information, private and subjective data, data about your looks, appearance, behavior, health, sickness and genetics, and much more.
2.2. ONLINE TRANSLATION
What can you do, if you receive a message in Estonian or want to read an Estonian news article that looks interesting, but you haven’t learned enough Estonian language to understand it completely? In these cases, automatic online translators might help you. Most of the search engines have translators. You can visit them on these addresses: translate.google.com, bing.com/translator or translate.yandex.com
You can choose the languages you wish to use and either type or copy the text into the “translator”.
It is also possible to translate a whole webpage. In order to do so, copy the link into translation box and click on the result.
The online translators can be inaccurate, thus have someone to verify the texts, if needed. It is important that you learn the language. 23
Internet might be a useful and fun place, but you always need to be aware of potential dangers that could harm you, your close ones or your device.
There are few things to keep in mind, so you wouldn’t be scammed:
• Look at the sender. Do you know the sender? Have you been in touch with them before? If the sender is unknown to you, you can google them before you reply with anything, especially if they are requesting your personal details. Does the email address make sense when looking at the name of the sender?
• Read the text. Public institutions and companies would not overall ask for your personal information over an email, PIN-codes or ask you to download a file. Only scammers do.
• Think clearly. Why are you receiving this email? For example, if it informs you about failed transaction in bank – did you recently do any transactions?
• If you are not sure, if and how to respond to the email, try to search the sender on Google, and if needed, call them to clarify.
To avoid viruses in your devices, never click on:
• suspicious pop-up advertisements;
• strange websites;
• files sent to you by unknown senders;
• and never download files from untrustworthy websites.
If you want to keep an eye on news on internet safety, visit www.ria.ee/en/news.html.
If you receive emails or phone calls on winning/inheriting large amount of money or amazing investment opportunity, then in most cases you are unfortunately being scammed.
2.4. ONLINE SAFETY OF YOU AND YOUR CLOSE ONES
It is nice to share and comment on photos, thoughts, videos, music and links on the internet, but always remember to take care of your and other people’s privacy.
Don’t Do
Do not publish private information about yourself and do not send any private information to someone you can’t fully trust.
Do not post or share other people private info either.
Never tell people online (e.g in chats) what your home address is or where you are staying. Do not share your exact location either.
Do not meet people you know only from the internet in your home or in their home.
Do not post pictures or videos with your friends or other people without their permission.
Do not post pictures of children publicly.
Keep in mind that it is very easy to screenshot your messages and upload them publicly or send them to other people. Keep your privacy!
Respect other people’s privacy too.
Keep your location private. It is not a good idea to give out your exact location, because you never know who might see this post!
If you want to meet someone from the internet, choose a public place – café, restaurant, shopping centre etc.
Ask your friends’ permission to post pictures with them online.
Change your privacy settings on your social media profiles to “friends only” or “private”.
In case you get angry, do not be rude on internet.
Making jokes on racism, religion, sexual orientation, terrorism and other sensitive topics is not acceptable. There will be consequences depending on your post – it might be deleted, your account might be blocked, or you might be even taken to the police.
Do not post abusive content, adult content, illegal content or threats online.
Do not believe everything you see on internet.
Always stay polite. Even if you think you are commenting anonymously, it is still possible to know who you are.
Think of the possible consequences of your posts and comments.
Follow the law while online.
Keep in mind that everything you see on the internet and social media is not true. News can be fake, people can lie, and photos and videos can be manipulated. Check the sources.
Be aware of cyberbullying. Cyberbullying is the use of electronic communication to bully a person, typically by sending messages of an intimidating or threatening nature. It can take place on social media, messaging platforms and gaming platforms. If you see a case of cyberbullying or experience it, report it. You can report straight to the social media channel or to the Estonian web-constables (www.politsei.ee/en/web-constables)
If you are a parent, you should think about your child’s safety both online and offline. It is important that the parent is aware of what their child is doing on social media and on the internet in general. Children can be exposed to many different dangers online and it is parent’s duty is to make sure that their child is protected online. Children are more easily affected by what they see, and without parent’s constant supervision, they might end up on content they are not supposed to see. Overall it is good for child’s health (both physical and mental) if their screen-time is limited.
NOTES
3. INTERNATIONAL PROTECTION IN ESTONIA AND TRAVELLING
The Police and Border Guard Board processes applications for international protection and residence permits. In Estonia asylum cases are processed in lines with the 1951 Geneva convention and its Protocols and respective EU directives and Estonian national legislation.
When you receive international protection in Estonia, you can receive one of the two temporary residence permits issued by Estonia:
• If you have refugee status - you have a reasonable fear of persecution on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, membership in a social group or political inclination.
You can get a residence permit for three years. It is granted to you on the grounds of Act of Granting International Protection to Aliens.
If you need to extend your residence permit, it will be extended for three years.
• If you have subsidiary protection - you don't qualify for refugee status, but there's reason to believe if you returned to your country of origin, you might be in a great danger.
You can get a residence permit for one year.
If you need to extend your residence permit, it will be extended for two years.
After receiving international protection, applying for your temporary residence permit card will be one of the first steps you will make to start your life in Estonia. You must apply for it at the nearest Police and Border Guard Board office. It will be issued to you without charge.
Application form for residence permits and their extensions can be found on politsei.ee. Read carefully what documents are needed to submit an application in addition to the filled-in application form.
Residence permit, regardless of its length, gives you many rights in Estonia. For example, the residence permit on the grounds of international protection automatically gives you the right to work in Estonia. You do not need to apply
separately for a work permit. Also, you can have support services specific to the international protection. At the same time, it will bring you certain responsibilities/obligations. See more information in chapter 4.
Along with the residence permit you will be issued an identification code (IDcode), which is required for official actions in Estonia.
!Residence permit card is not a travel document, but it is a mandatory personal identification document you must have with you all the time in Estonia and when travelling abroad with your travel document.
3.1. RESIDENCE PERMITS AND CITIZENSHIP
As a temporary resident you have the possibility to undertake a pathway to obtaining long-term resident’s residence permit or even become an Estonian citizen. It requires certain effort from you and some patience, but it’s not impossible.
TEMPORARY RESIDENCE PERMIT
• You are granted international protection for 1 year - subsidiary protection
• You are granted international protection for 3 years - refugee status
• You need to renew your residence permit 4 months before the expiry at the Police and Border Guard Board.
• Your residence permit is not extended if you do not need international protection anymore, you have violated public order or societal safety, you have been identiifed as national security threat
LONG -TERM RESIDENT'S RESIDENCE PERMIT
• You have lived in Estonia permanently for five years based on temporary residence permit immediately prior to submitting your residence permit application
• You hold a valid temporary residence permit
• Your place of residence is registered in the Estonian Population Register
• You have permanent legal income that enables you to meet living expenses in Estonia
• You have health insurance provided by the Estonian Health Insurance Fund
• You have met the integration requirement and have knowledge of Estonian at least at the B1 level
• You need to submit application for the long-term resident's residence permit at least 2 months before the expiry date of your temporary residence permit.
• You must submit the application in Estonian language
• Your long-term resident's residence permit doesn't have an expiry date and you don't need to apply for periodic extensions
• It's basis for applying for citizenship
CITIZENSHIP
• You can apply for Estonian citizenship if...
• You are at least 15 years old
• You have lived in Estonia for at least eight years on the ground of a residence permit or by right of residence, of which at least the last five years on a permanent basis
• You hold a valid long-term resident's residence permit or the right of permanent residence
• You have lawfully and on a permanent basis resided in Estonia on the ground of a long-term resident's residence permit or by right of permanent residence for six months from the day following the date of registration of the application for Estonian citizenship
• You have registered a place of residence in Estonia
• You have passed the Estonian language profiency examination and the examination of knowledge of the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia and the Citizenship Act
• You have permanent legal income
• You are loyal to the Estonian state
• The Education and Youth Board (Harno) organizes examination for citizenship and also has preparatory courses available. More information: www.harno.ee or www.integratsioon.ee
• NB! Keep in mind that dual citizenship is generally not permitted by law.
In case you cannot meet the requirements for long-term resident’s residence permit you can always extend your temporary residence permits. However, long-term resident’s residence permit is strongly advised as this gives you more safeguards for your permanent stay in Estonia.
3.2. RESIDENCE PERMITS AND CITIZENSHIP FOR
CHILDREN
An application for a residence permit for a child under the age of 15 is submitted by their legal representative (e.g. parent, guardian or other legal representative). Children over the age of 15 can apply for a residence permit themselves.
A minor child who was born in Estonia or who comes to live with you in Estonia immediately after birth will be granted a temporary residence permit if you have a valid temporary residence permit for Estonia at the time of the child's birth. If a minor child has been granted a temporary residence permit to live with you and your temporary residence permit is extended or you are granted a new temporary residence permit, the validity of the minor child's residence permit will be extended until the end of the validity of your residence permit.
A minor child who was born in Estonia or who moves to Estonia with you immediately after birth will receive a long-term resident’s residence permit if you have a valid Estonian long-term resident’s residence permit at the time of the child's birth.
Estonian citizenship for a child under the age of 15 may be applied for by parents who have acquired Estonian citizenship after the birth of the child, or by one parent who has acquired Estonian citizenship after the birth of the child, in agreement with the parent who does not have Estonian citizenship.
Please see chapter 4.4 for family members who have not travelled with you but you wish to apply for family reunification in Estonia.
A valid travel document is mandatory if you travel outside of Estonia: to a Schengen state, one of the member states of the European Union, or any state beyond.
Always check the immigration rules and the documents recognized in the destination country.
If you do not have a valid travel document (such as a passport issued by the state you are a citizen of), you may apply for a travel document from the Police and Border Guard Board.
If you stay away from Estonia for a longer period, you must follow the laws and migration regulation of that state, and, if necessary, apply for a residence and/or work permit from that state.
If you are planning to leave Estonia for a longer time, inform the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board about it. It is important to register your long absence from Estonia to avoid any cancellation of your residence permit.
Please note that if you plan to travel to your country of origin, your continuous need for international protection is questionable, thus your residence permit that is based on the international protection might be cancelled.
Passport issued by the state you are a citizen of
POSSIBLE TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
Refugee travel document
• You can apply for the refugee travel document at the nearest Police and Border Guard Board's office if you have been granted refugee status in Estonia.
• The travel doucment will be issued to you in person within 30 days of submission of the application in the office of Police and Border Guard Board marked on your application form.
• Upon receipt of the travel document present the previous valid Refugee travel document, if you have one. The official will also compare your fingerprints with those you submitted previously.
Alien's passport
• You can apply for an alien's passport if you have been granted subsidiary protection.
• You may apply for an alien's passport at the nearest office of the Police and Border Guard Board.
• The alien's passport will be issued to you in person within 30 days of submission of the application. Upon receipt of the alien's passport at the Police and Border Guard Board's office, you must present the previously issued alien's passport, if you have it. The official will compare your fingerprints with those taken previously.
Certain state fees might apply for applying travel documents. See more information on www.politsei.ee.
Please be aware that if you are planning to travel outside the EU, some countries might request a visa. For correct information contact the Embassy of the country you are planning to travel to.
If a child (under 18) is travelling with one parent only, the other parent must provide a written consent for such travel. The consent should be taken along for the travel so it can be presented if asked at border crossing. Note that some countries might also request a document drawn up by a notary.
3.4. CONTACT INFORMATION
You can find additional information about documents and applying for them on the webpage of the Police and Border Guard Board. Also, don’t hesitate to contact them if you have some questions you can’t find answer to.
Police and Border Guard Board:
• Locally: The nearest service point to your home
• Web: www.politsei.ee
• E-mail: ppa@politsei.ee
• Phone: Client information number: 1247 (every day around the clock in Estonian, Russian and English)
In order to submit the application in the Service Point you need to make a reservation via broneering.politsei.ee
If you have any questions, you can always contact the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board, either the international protection advisors or migration advisors. 35
iWrite to international protection advisors: asylum.counsel@counsel.ee
Or contact the migration advisors:
Phone: 612 3500 (Monday-Friday 9.00-15.00)
E-mail: migrationadvice@politsei.ee
If you need more clarity and/or support in filling in applications for extending your residence permits or you have any other questions about your residence permit, you can also consult with Estonian Human Rights Centre:
Web: www.humanrights.ee
E-mail: info@humanrights.ee
Phone: +372 644 5148
USEFUL VOCABULARY
i
Politsei- ja Piirivalveamet (PPA) Police and Border Guard Board
Rahvusvaheline kaitse
International protection
Pagulane Refugee
Täiendav kaitse
Tähtajaline elamisluba
Subsidiary protection
Temporary residence permit
Pikaajalise elaniku elamisluba Long-term resident's residence permit
Reisidokument Travel document
Isikukood
ID-code / personal code
Taotlus Application
Kodakondsus
Citizenship
4. RIGHTS, OBLIGATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
While in Estonia, you must follow the Estonian Constitution and laws. Not knowing and thus not following the law does not excuse you from violating them. If you violate laws, you will be punished accordingly.
You can find all laws of Estonia in Riigi Teataja www.riigiteataja.ee, where some of the laws have also translated into English and/or Russian. In Estonia, legislation has legal force only in Estonian language.
As a temporary resident, you have many of the same rights as permanent residents.
According to the Estonian Constitution, everyone residing in Estonia legally has the right to aid when the person is in need:
• In old age
• In cases of unemployment
• In case of emergency
In Estonia, no one may be discriminated because of their religion, political views, nationality, race, colour, sex or origin.
The incitement of national, racial, religious or political hatred, violence or discrimination is prohibited and punishable in Estonia.
If you have been discriminated in the public space, based on your nationality, race, colour, sex or origin, you can turn to the police.
In cases of discrimination, you can turn to gender equality and equal treatment representative, who monitors the performance of the requirements in the law. Information can be found at www.volinik.ee.
You can also report the incident to Estonian Human Rights Centre.
In Estonia, everyone can enjoy the right to:
• Life, and no one may be arbitrarily deprived of their right
• Liberty and to the security of their person
• Free self-realization, choose own area of work and be engaged in any kind of legal business
• Freedom of speech and expression, including clothing
• Choose their partner - no one can force anyone to marry somebody they don't want to marry
You can exercise your freedom(s) and right(s) as long as you are not violating the rights of others. This applies to the streets, home, and to the social media.
Depending on your status, there might be some additional rights you can enjoy and/or obligations you must follow.
As a beneficiary of international protection, in addition to following the Constitution and laws, you have additional obligations to:
• Participate in Estonian language courses at levels A1, A2, and B1
• Attend the international protection module of the Settle in Estonia Programme
• Use the services of support person when appointed to you. In addition to the obligatory international protection module of the Settle in Estonia Programme, you have the right to attend the other thematic modules of the Programme. Please note that the other modules are offered only in English and Russian. You can find more information on www.settleinestonia.ee.
Rights and obligations of all men and women
In Estonia women and men are equal in front of the law:
• In Estonia, men and women are equal in society and have equal rights and obligations.
• Like in many other countries, men and women are equal before the law in Estonia.
• Men and women have equal rights to education, work, acquire and sell property, obtain health care, open bank accounts, manage their money, travel There are no jobs in Estonia that are meant only for men or only for women.
• Men and women can choose their partners and have a say in marriage and divorce
• Men and women can equally choose whether they want to have children or not.
4.1. SOLVING LEGAL QUESTIONS
Everyone has the right to stand up for their rights and freedoms, and in case these are violated, to turn to courts.
Note that in Estonia the judiciary is independent, and nobody is allowed to influence the decision making of the judges; the judgements are based on existing legislations.
Those who have committed crime, which is proved, will be punished accordingly to the court of law. If you get convicted for crimes, you will most probably lose your right to stay in Estonia and in Schengen.
In case you cannot afford a lawyer, but are in need for legal advice, you can try to seek for free of charge state legal advice from www.kohus.ee/ en/how-initiate-legal-proceedings/procedural-expenses-and-proceduralassistance
Here are some service providers who you can consult you for free:
• Inimõiguste keskus (Estonian Human Rights Centre) – legal counselling and provision of legal information about Estonian asylum procedures, rights of asylum seekers, rights and obligations of people under international protection, application for free state legal aid, and representation in the Police and Border Guard Board or courts if necessary. www.humanrights.ee; info@humanrights.ee; tel: +372 644 5148
• OÜ Hugo – provides free legal advice if your income is less than 1200 EUR. Provides consultation on daily legal matters, e.g. household contracts, work contracts, loans/debts etc. www.juristaitab.ee; hugo@hugo.legal; tel +372 6 880 400.
• Õigusteenuste Büroo AS – provides legal advice people with special needs (disabilities), low-income residents of Tallinn and people sent by Tallinn Crisis Centre for Women. www.otb.ee; otb@ otb.ee; tel +372 5385 0005
• Eesti Juristide Liit “Õigusapteek” (“Legal pharmacy”) – provides legal advice to everyone on certain dates and locations. Service in Estonian and Russian guaranteed. More info about locations and dates: www.juristideliit.ee/info-ja-uritused/oigusapteek.
The free of charge services are offered in Estonian, Russian and English language.
As a beneficiary of international protection, you have the right for needsbased support person service.
The service is provided in the local municipality where you live. The aim of the support person service is to help you to become more independent in Estonia. Support person will not do things for you but will guide you so that you would learn how to carry out daily activities in Estonia by yourself. Remember that the responsibility for your daily life and coping is always yours.
Support person can:
• explain to you the most important things about Estonian society and your rights and obligations;
• guide you concerning concrete daily activity, for example opening bank account, using public transport etc;
• support you in your job search:
• help networking and interacting with various agencies (state institutions, local government, educational institutions, and hospitals), but also the landlord of your flat;
• help to organise translation service.
Support person will sign a contract with you. In addition, an action plan is created by you, support person and a representative of the local municipality where you live (also other parties if needed). The action plan sets the goals and activities for you and establishes the rights and responsibilities of all sides of the agreement. The action plan focuses on goals like finding work, learning Estonian language, going to school and other issues relevant for you.
For the first months the service is more frequent and becomes less frequent as you are becoming more independent.
The support person service is offered by: Sotsiaalkindlustusamet
Web: www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee
E-mail: info@sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee
NGO Estonian Refugee Council organizes various group activities like events, workshops and excursions. For example, there is a women’s club, which supports refugee women’s self-reliance and independence.
4.3. TRANSLATION SERVICES
According to the law, people who have been granted international protection can use state covered translation services for up to two years. Note that the state coverage has certain money limitations, therefore it’s necessary to assess the purposes you use the support for. For example, if you speak good English or Russian, you most probably do not need a translator.
Contact your local municipality to get more information on the translation support.
4.4. FAMILY REUNIFICATION
If you have been granted international protection, you have the right to apply for family reunification of the family members that have been left behind.
Following family members can be reunited with you:
• your spouse who you have been officially married to prior to your arrival in Estonia
• your and your spouse’s single, underage children. Descent must be proved, and if necessary, the Police and Border Guard Board will obtain an expertise on DNA analysis
• your parent(s) in case they are dependent solely on you for their subsistence. Their need for subsistence support must be proved.
You are considered as a family if your family already existed in your country of origin.
If you wish to reunite your family:
• Contact the nearest office of the Police and Border Guard Board
• Present all the relevant information you have about your family ties. If possible, present official documents (marriage contract, birth certificates of your children, etc) and other written evidence as it makes the process faster.
If your application for family reunification is approved by the Police and Border Guard Board, your family member(s), who have remained behind in the other country must:
• Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the Estonian Republic or the embassy or consulate of a state representing Estonia and
• Apply for a travel document for entry into Estonia. In most cases this is a visa for Estonia, which will be entered into an existing international travel document or passport.
You can find the contact information for Estonian embassies and consulates abroad on the webpage vm.ee/en/consular-visa-and-travel-information/visa-information/ estonian-representations-which-are-handling.
Once your family members arrive in Estonia via family reunification procedure, they need to apply for international protection and residence permit.
Note that in case of family member’s residence permit, the duration of the permit is the same as the duration of your residence permit.
When your family members arrive in Estonia, they must follow the local laws. Note that should they fail to do so you as the person who applied for reunification might also be held responsible.
You can contact international protection advisors or migration advisors.
Family must cover expenses related to the family reunification.
You can also receive some assistance from NGOs such as Estonian Refugee Council (www.pagulasabi.ee); Estonian Human Rights Centre (www.humanrights.ee). They can help you with paperwork and advice, in exceptional cases, also fundraising. Also you have the possibility to consult with the UNHCR office in Sweden (www.unhcr.org/sweden.html)
If you have lost contact with your family and believe them to be currently located in a refugee camp, contact the Estonian Red Cross (www.redcross.ee). They can help you find your family.
SOCIETY
Estonia is your new home; for better feel of belonging and faster integration you could actively participate in the society and contribute into Estonian society. Networks with others can bring you more opportunities – be it for learning language, finding better employment outlooks etc.
Options to be actively engaged in Estonian society:
• Engaging in civil society organization. These engagements are mostly unpaid but helps you to network and better understand the local life and voice your concerns/needs for improvement (e.g. in the field of integration). In order to participate in a civil society organization, find an organization that works with a cause that is important to you and contact them. Some of such active organizations you can find on www.heakodanik.ee/liikmed.
• Joining neighbourhood activities. This would help you feel home quicker and get to know your neighbours and them to know you. Reach out to neighbours, introduce yourself and your family; search for information on on-going activities and events in neighbourhood. The neighbourhood can help you, and you can help them. In order to find your neighbourhood online-communities, try to search the name of your area on Facebook –for example, there are Facebook groups for people in Nõmme, Kalamaja, Lasnamäe and some other areas. You can also connect with other people in your city on Facebook – check out groups like Expats in Tallinn, Foreigners in Tartu, Moms of Tallinn, Families with kids in Tartu, Tallinn Board and Card Games, Book Club Tartu, etc and/or go to local library and see if there are any activities you could join.
• Find ways to volunteer. You can volunteer short-term – for example on one weekend to help with an event – or long-term. You can find interesting offers on www.vabatahtlikud.ee.
Participate in culture programme Culture Key (Kultuurivõti). See more: kultuurivoti.ee/en/
i USEFUL VOCABULARY
Põhiseadus Constitution
Õigusabi Legal aid
Seadus Law
Kohus Court
Mittetulundusühing (MTÜ) Civil society organization (CSO)
Naabruskond Neighborhood
Advokaat Lawyer
Kohtunik Judge
NOTES
5. EMPLOYMENT
As a beneficiary of international protection, you have the right to work from day one.
In Estonia, work is an important value and provides social status to both men and women. All professions can be done by both men and women.
The majority of Estonians work in order to cover the expenses necessary for life.
A stable job and income enable you to have a better quality of life. Legal income is one of the requirements to apply for long term residence permit and eventually have access to Estonian citizenship.
Work also gives you opportunities to develop your skills, make new friends and acquaintances, contribute to the society, and learn Estonian. Also, if you work, you pay taxes, which means you have health insurance and contribute into pension fund.
In order to find employment, you have to be very active and open to different job opportunities.
The living costs are high and in many cases one family member cannot earn enough money to afford a decent life for their family. You would be able to offer your children a better living standard only when both parents work.
As a working parent, you don’t have to worry about leaving your child home alone, there are kindergartens, schools and after school activities and if your child will fall ill you will be eligible for support.
This will be a hard choice, but the best option both for your children and for you to fulfil one of the requirements for long-term resident's residence permit.
Children and work
Children in Estonia must go to school and not concentrate on work. However, under some conditions working for children is allowed. When children are in the 1-9 grade, they can work only 12 hours in a week. Always remember that a child must never work against his or her will. The tasks that children may carry out at work must be simple and not harmful for their health. Children should not work at night-time and not do any over time. In addition to that, children who must attend school should never work before the beginning of the school day or work more than half of the school holiday. Children must receive equal salary with adults, even if their working time is limited.
You can find important information about working in Estonia at: www.tooelu.ee.
5.1. HOW TO FIND WORK
It is your responsibility to find employment to support yourself and/or your family. You should follow these steps:
• Your bio
• Education
• Previous experience
• Skills
FIND A JOB
• www.cv.ee
• www.cvkeskus.ee
• www.tootukassa.ee/en
• www.workinestonia.ee
• www.linkedin.com
• Social media
• Applications - goworkabit; meetfrank
• Ask friends
• Send your CV
APPLY FOR A JOB
• If asked dont forget to include meaningful cover letter, stressing:
• why you want the job
• what skills you have needed for the job
• Be on time
GO FOR AN INTERVIEW
• Be clean, sober and dressed properly
• Answer questions honestly
• Be ready to explain your motivations, skills.
• You might be asked about desired salary - dont over or under estimate
SIGN A CONTRACT
• Fixes your salary
• Should always be in writing
• Defines duration of employment
• Prefer bank transfer as payment method
• Outlines working time and hours
• Outlines annual leave
Prepare your CV in advance and with care – a potential employer’s first impression of you will be based on it. You can find good samples from online, and you may also ask help from your support person. Eesti Töötukassa (Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund) also has career information specialists who can help you with preparing your CV and other application documents. Provide information about your education and work experience. You can fill in EU skills profile tool on ec.europa.eu/migrantskills before you go to Töötukassa.
You can obtain advice about preparing a CV and for job interviews from online portals mentioned above and from consultants at the Eesti Töötukassa.
Have documents/diplomas related to your qualifications translated into Estonian and certified (when applying for positions requiring submission of diplomas). You can do it via ENIC-NARIC www.harno.ee/en/enicnaric. When undertaking the certification process please highlight that you are beneficiary of international protection, which would avoid contacts with institutions back in your
Be prepared that at the beginning you might have to accept a job that is less qualified than your job back home. You can work your way up over the time.
Knowing Estonian language helps you to increase your chances in finding employment quicker.
Should it turn out complicated to find work on your own, you can do it also through Töötukassa. See more in chapter 5.
You can obtain advice about preparing a CV and for job interviews from online portals mentioned above and from consultants at Töötukassa.
5.2. EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT
To work legally in Estonia, you need a written employment contract.
If you find a job, make sure that your employer is prepared to make a written work contract with you and that the terms and conditions are understandable to you.
The contract determines the rights and responsibilities of both parties and guarantees you the right to health insurance and other social benefits.
Fulltime job is usually 40 hours a week, 8 hours a day, from Monday to Friday. This may change if you work in shifts or in seasonal jobs. Overtime should be compensated either as extra time off or extra pay. Agree with your supervisor beforehand.
The employment contract is an agreement between the employer and you, according to which:
• You are obligated to work for the employer, submitting to his/her supervision and control
• The employer is obligated to pay wages to you and to guarantee you the working conditions set forth either in the agreement between the two parties, a collective agreement, law, or administrative decree
The employment contract should be always in written form and signed in two copies, one of which is kept by the employee and the other by the employer.
If you want to receive some counsel/advise on the contract you are about to sign, you can contact Tööinspektsioon (Labour Inspectorate of Estonia, www.ti.ee/en) or Sotsiaalkindlustusamet (Social Insurance Board, www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee) who can check that your rights are protected under the contract.
Be mindful of different employment contracts, and respective entitlements.
Type of contract
Definition
Employment contract (tööleping)
One person (employee) does work for another person (employer) in subordination to the management and control of the employer.
Payment
Work hours
Annual leave
The employer is obligated to pay wages for work under the conditions and at the time agreed upon.
State health insurance
Usually 8 hours/day and 40h/week for full-time work. Part-time work is also possible.
The employee has a right for annual leave at least 28 days in a year.
The employee is covered by the state health insurance.
Probationary period
The employee will be on four month probationary period, unless agreed otherwise.
Contract for services (töövõtuleping)
One person (the contractor) undertakes to manufacture or modify a thing or to achieve any other agreed result by providing a service (work) and the other person (the customer) undertakes to pay remuneration therefore.
The customer needs to pay to the contractor after the completion of the work. The customer is not required to pay for work before having the opportunity to examine the thing, unless agreed otherwise.
The due date for completion of the work must be agreed by the sides.
The contractor doesn't have a right for annual leave nor payment for annual leave.
The contractor has a right for state health insurance if the customer pays social tax for the contractor at least the minimum social tax obligation.
There is no probation period.
The following conditions and information must be included in the employment contract:
Job contract №
Name
Personal or registry codes
Home address
Official job location, if this has legal implications
Surname
Work address
Wages and fees paid for work: the parties should agree on wages (including remuneration for financial outcomes and transactions), how the wages are calculated, procedure for payment of wages, specification of when wages are to be paid (pay day), as well as taxes paid by the employer or income tax withheld from wages by the employer;
Other possible benefits;
Time during which work is to be performed;
Length of vacation;
Place at which work is to be performed;
Deadline for advance notification to the worker that he/she is being laid off, or at least an indication of how far in advance the employee should be notified;
Rules for work as set by the employer;
Reference to a collective agreement if a collective agreement is to be adjusted to include the employee.
The date the employee should start work
Contract signing date
When you start working your employer has to register you as an employee at Eesti Maksu- ja Tolliamet (Estonian Tax and Customs Board). This means that taxes are paid of your salary. You can check your registration via the self-service of the Maksu- ja Tolliamet: www.emta.ee.
5.3. SALARY AND TAXES
Salary
The minimum hourly gross salary in Estonia in 2025 is 5,31 € and the minimum monthly gross salary is 886 €. Meaning, if you work full-time, this is the minimum the employer can pay you, and in such cases some tax is deducted. For example, if you are earning minimum salary 886€ by your contract, you will get 810,08 € on your bank account. By law it is expected that the salary is paid by your employer to your bank account. We strongly advise you to avoid any salary paid in cash. Receiving salary in cash puts you into a very vulnerable position.
Learn about banks and opening a bank account in “Everyday money matters” chapter 12.
Taxes
In Estonia we pay taxes, either on goods and services we consume or from our salaries. The tax money is collected for the state budget, which later on is used for provision of various state services etc.
If you work under an official employment contract, the employer pays for your social tax and the compulsory fees, which guarantee your assistance from the state in case of unemployment. Social tax is paid at the rate of 33% of your salary.
In most cases your employment contract states your salary as gross salary. This means that following taxes are automatically deducted from your gross salary on the pay day:
• 22% of your gross salary will be deducted as income tax
• 1,6% goes to the unemployment insurance fund, which gives you a right to receive payments from Töötukassa in case you lose your job.
• 2% goes to the mandatory funded pension. The Estonian pension system stands on three pillars: state pension, mandatory funded pension, and supplementary funded pension. You can start receiving state pension from the age of 64 years and 9 months.
For example, if your monthly gross salary is 1,143 EUR, then your mandatory Pension fund (2%) contribution is 22.86 EUR, unemployment insurance fund (1.6%) is 18.29 EUR and deductible income tax (22%) is 98.53 EUR. Thus 55
your net salary (that you receive on your account) is 1,143 – 22.86 - 18.29 - 98.53 = 1003.32 EUR. The employer-paid social tax (33%) is 377.19 EUR and unemployment insurance fund (0.8%) is 9.14. Thus, the total monthly payroll cost for the employer is 1,143 + 377.19 + 9.14 EUR = 1529.33 EUR
However, there is also an overall tax-free amount of 7848 euros per year or 654 euros per month. Read more: https://www.emta.ee/en/private-client/taxes-and-payment/ tax-incentives/calculation-basic-exemption !
Every year from February to April you must submit income tax declaration. When you do your annual tax declaration, you might be returned some funds or asked to pay extra in case all your incomes and tax exemptions have not been calculated correctly. You can find more information on www.emta.ee
Your salary before income tax - bruto
The cost of having you to your employer
Social tax 33% of your salary
Your salary after 22% income tax and 0,8% unemployment
Taxes on consumption
Your local purchases
Value added tax (VAT) 24%, 13% or 9%
Excise duties on alcohol, tobacco, fuel etc
Your purchases ordered online outside of the EU
and VAT
5.4. TRIAL PERIOD
When you are first hired for a job, there is usually a trial period. This may last up to four months. During the trial period the employer assesses your suitability for the job, and you can also assess whether the work and the working environment are suitable for you. During the trial period, you have the same legal rights stated in the contract. The employment contract may be revoked during the trial period with at least 15 calendar days of advance notification. Often the salary paid during trial period is little less than after the trial period.
5.5. OVER TIME
If the employee works for more than the agreed-upon hours, this is considered overtime, which is, by the law, compensated either by extra time off or extra pay. Before working overtime, you need to agree with your employer how will it be compensated (extra time off or extra pay). We recommend that you specify the conditions for overtime in your employment contract:
• If overtime is compensated by pay, the employer shall pay the employee time-and-a-half (1,5 times the regular wages).
• If the work period is during the night (22-6), the employer must pay the employee 1,25 times the regular wages.
• If it has not already been specified in the contract that the agreed-upon wages include extra compensation for night-time work.
• If the workday or working hours fall on a national holiday, the employer must pay the employee double wages (two times the normal wage).
5.6. SICK LEAVE
If you have fallen ill, you should stay home to recover and not infect others. However, keep it in mind that when you need to be away from work due to sickness, you need to contact your doctor first as they will issue you a certificate for sick leave to prove your sickness.
The Health Insurance Fund pays sickness benefit to an insured person in case they fall ill. The first three days of your sick leave will not be compensated, but from the fourth day, your employer will pay the benefit, and from the ninth day, the Health Insurance Fund will do it. 57
The amount of the sickness benefit is calculated based on your average wage during the last six months, if you employer pays it, or on the data of social tax paid. The sickness benefit is paid at the rate of 70% of daily income. An insured person has the right to receive the sickness benefit for 182 consecutive calendar days.
5.7. WORK CULTURE
In Estonia, it is very important to be punctual.
You should always arrive at work exactly at the agreed-upon time or earlier. For example, if your workday begins at 8.00, this means at 8.00 exactly, not 8.10.
Not only it is impolite to be late, but it is also often not allowed at all and may create problems for you with your employer. For example, the employer has the right to deduct the time you are late from your wages.
If you are going to be late to work, if you are too ill to go to work, or you are unable to follow some other agreement, let your supervisor know immediately. In addition, if you are ill, you must contact your family doctor’s office to start your certified sick leave, and in other cases make an agreement with your employer to solve the situation.
It is very important to respect agreements. If the decision has been made mutually, then both parties are expected to act according to the agreement.
In Estonian culture various Christian customs are practiced, even though religion does not have an important place in everyday life. In working life, the influence of religion can be expressed by giving employees days off: many Christian holidays are national holidays in Estonia.
In general, however, religious observances and rituals are not a part of working life in Estonia. If, for example, a worker wishes to pause for prayer in the middle of a workday, this should be done during regular breaks that have been previously agreed upon.
Equal treatment and equal rights:
The principle of equal treatment and equal rights applies in Estonia.
Therefore, employers must treat all employees equally, both when hiring them, setting the conditions of the employment contract or wages, and when offering training and career promotion opportunities.
For example, it is not permitted to show gender bias when deciding on working conditions and wages; likewise, a worker must not be denied access to career opportunities while pregnant, or because they have children.
iIf you feel you have been discriminated against, you have the right to contact:
• The Gender Equality and Equal Treatment Commissioner by e-mail at info@volinik.ee, by phone at +372 53525002 (www.volinik.ee/ en);
• The Chancellor of Justice by e-mail at info@oiguskantsler.ee, by phone at +372 693 8404 (www.oiguskantsler.ee).
5.8. DISPUTES AT THE WORKPLACE
If disagreements occur between you and your employer regarding the conditions of your employment contract or the fulfilment of laws, first try to solve these directly with your employer or with the help of the trade union, if there is one present at the workplace.
If this is not effective, contact the Tööinspektsioon (Labour Inspectorate) Labour Dispute Committee for your region for further advice.
WHERE TO FIND MORE INFO:
You can find the contact information for Tööinspektsioon and the samples of applications and instructions for filling them in on the webpage www.ti.ee.
Webpage: www.ti.ee/en
Phone: +372 640 6000
You may submit your application on paper or electronically. Applications submitted on paper should be signed and sent in two copies by mail to the Labour Dispute Committee in your region or submitted in person. If you submit an electronic application, you must sign it digitally. No applications will be processed without a signature. You should have applications to the Inspectorate submitted in Estonian.
5.9. SERVICES AND SUPPORT OF ESTONIAN UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE FUND (EESTI TÖÖTUKASSA)
If you are unemployed, looking for a job or if you have lost your job for any reason, contact the nearest office of Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund - Eesti Töötukassa (www.tootukassa.ee) and register yourself as an unemployed person. The consultant at Töötukassa will guide you to find a new job and advise on benefits and other services provided by Töötukassa. Eesti Töötukassa can help you, but it is your own responsibility to find a job. They can make recommendations. It helps you if you go to the first consultation having done some preparations beforehand and with an open mind for various offers.
Go to your nearest office of Eesti Töötukassa (there is one in every county – find the addresses online at www.tootukassa.ee) and follow these steps:
2 3 4 1
• Register as unemployed or as a jobseeker. Registering yourself as unemployed means that you are not working, but you are looking for a job and you are prepared to accept a suitable job and start working immediately.
• You can register as a job seeker if you are already working but looking for a more suitable job.
• After registering as unemployed, you and your consultant at Eesti Töötukassa will prepare an individual action plan to agree on the activities that will be carried out to help find you a job.
• You are expected to meet your consultant at the agreed time. If you have a valid reason (you have fallen ill for example) so that you cannot come at the agreed time, always inform them beforehand. You must cancel your registration as unemployed as soon as you begin working (even if for short time) or studying. Make sure you inform Töötukassa of this, as you will have to repay any benefits/compensation that you are not entitled to.
When you are registered as unemployed with the Eesti Töötukassa –you are entitled to benefits and services, including trainings, that will help you in getting a job, and you will also be covered by state health insurance.
Preconditions for continuity of such benefits is that you are actively seeking for work.
As an unemployed person, you are eligible to receive the following:
• Information on what is happening on the job market
• Help and support while seeking a job
• Financial unemployment insurance benefit (if you have worked previously) or allowance for the unemployed (you may be eligible without being employed before, for example when you have been raising a child who is 8 years old or younger, etc)
• Services supporting finding a job (various trainings, support for starting a business, etc.)
• Health insurance
As an unemployed person you are obligated:
• To participate in drawing up an individual plan for seeking employment
• To complete the activities agreed upon in the individual plan for seeking employment
• To present yourself at Töötukassa at an agreed-upon time at least once every 30 days to discuss the individual plan for seeking employment
• To seek work independently, and to keep the Töötukassa informed of developments and changes in the process of seeking employment
• To accept an appropriate job and begin work without delay
Share any relevant information with the consultant who will help you obtain the appropriate support.
If you don’t fulfil your obligations and/or you turn down 3 job offers without reasonable justification, the Eesti Töötukassa might exclude you from their service. This means you will lose your health insurance and it will also have impact on support provided by the local government.
In case you lose your job, but do not yet qualify for any of the abovementioned financial support from Töötukassa, you can always apply for subsistence benefit from the local government, in case you need it to cover your daily expenses.
As a jobseeker, you can receive following support from the Eesti Töötukassa:
• find job offers and suitable work
• improve skills required for job seeking
If you are registered as a jobseeker, you are obligated to visit Töötukassa in every 90 days per agreed appointment time.
WHERE TO FIND MORE INFO:
Webpage: www.tootukassa.ee
E-mail: info@tootukassa.ee
Information telephone number: 777 3000
On its webpage www.tootukassa.ee Eesti Töötukassa offers an electronic selfservice option, but at present this is only available in Estonian.
5.10. SUBSISTENCE BENEFIT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT
You are expected to find a job as soon as possible, however if you have not found a job, or have lost a job and are low on money to meet your everyday living expenses (for example, rent and utilities), you are eligible i
to apply for a subsistence benefit from the local government according to your place of residence. If you are not actively looking for work, subsistence benefit may be reduced. Once employed you will keep receiving the benefit fully for the first two months and 50% for the next four months.
Subsistence benefit is to prevent people from falling to poverty. Note this support is only for a short period. Be active and search for a job.
To obtain the benefit, submit an application to the local government. Ask help from the social worker or your support person if needed. In the application indicate the names and the Estonian identification codes of your family members. Students must also submit a valid university student card or school certificate.
Payment of subsistence benefit is based on the principle that after paying rent and utilities, the following funds should be left over for everyday expenses. The following rates are applicable starting from July 1, 2022:
• 200 EUR per month for the first member of the family
• 160 EUR (80%) for every subsequent family member
• Underage children 240 EUR (per child)
! !
Any amount of money that comes to your bank account, unless it is clearly marked as reimbursement, may be viewed as income, and your social benefits are lowered as a result.
Some local governments pay one-time support upon the birth of a child, or other benefits such as emergency social assistance to enable you to meet your daily expenses.
Contact the social worker at your local government for further information.
i USEFUL VOCABULARY
Töö Work
Täiskohaga töö Full-time job
Töötu Unemployed
Tööotsija Job seeker
Tööandja Employer
Töötaja Employee
Tööleping Work contract
Miinimumpalk Minimum wage
Maks Tax
Puhkus (Annual) leave
NOTES
6. HOW TO START A COMPANY
In case of working for someone else is not for and you would prefer opening a company then this is a rather easy process in Estonia.
The following table presents different forms of entrepreneurship and what is needed for establishing one of them:
TYPE PRIVATE LIMITED COMPANY OSAÜHING (OÜ)
MINIMUM REQUIRED SHARE CAPITAL
MEMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION
2500 €. If the share capital is not more than 25 000 €, then it can be paid after establishing the company.
Memorandum of association is needed.
REGISTRATION OF SHARES N/A
LIABILITY
MANAGEMENT BOARD NEEDED
SUPERVISORY BOARD NEEDED
AUDITOR/ ACCOUNTANT NEEDED
REGISTRATION OF THE COMPANY AT THE E-BUSINESS REGISTER
If the share capital was set in the contract and the shareholder hasn’t paid it fully yet, then they are liable for as much as they haven’t paid, unless the obligation can be paid from the assets of the OÜ
SOLE PROPRIETORSHIP FÜÜSILISEST ISIKUST ETTEVÕTJA (FIE)
N/A
N/A
N/A
The founder, in case of bankruptcy all property and assets can be used as collateral, regardless of the use
Yes, one or several members. N/A
Depends on the statute.
N/A
REGISTRATION AS VAT TAXPAYER
ACTIVITY LICENSE AT THE REGISTER OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES
The company must submit an annual report every year. Auditor is not obligatory.
Yes. Electronically, if the founder has an Estonian electronic ID; or verification of foundation documents by the Notary.
State fee for registration at Notary: 200 €. Online accelerated procedure: 265 €.
Yes, if the annual turnover exceeds 40 000 €.
Yes, if active in any of the followin
• Construction
• Financial and insurance activities
• Information and communication
• Selling alcohol and tobacco
No, but accounting is needed, and income and expenses must be declared.
Yes. Electronically, and digitally signed; or an application confirmed by the Notary submitted to the registration department of a court.
State fee for registration is 20 EUR. If through notary, it can be either 25,5 EUR + VAT or 35,75 EUR. Additional notary fees might apply.
Yes, if hiring people, including volunteers.
fields:
• Media
• Agriculture
• Transport and industry
• Energy
TYPE
MINIMUM REQUIRED SHARE CAPITAL
MEMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION
REGISTRATION OF SHARES
LIABILITY
MANAGEMENT BOARD NEEDED
SUPERVISORY BOARD NEEDED
AUDITOR/ ACCOUNTANT NEEDED
REGISTRATION OF THE COMPANY AT THE E-BUSINESS REGISTER
PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY
AKTSIASELTS (AS)
25 000 €
REGISTRATION AS VAT TAXPAYER
ACTIVITY LICENSE AT THE REGISTER OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES
Memorandum of association is needed.
The registration of shares must be done at the Estonian Central Commercial Register.
Shareholder is not responsible –liability is with the company.
NONPROFIT ORGANISATION
MITTETULUNDUSÜHING (MTÜ)
N/A
Memorandum of association is needed.
N/A
Members of the management board who cause damage to the non-profit association by violation of their obligations shall be solitarily liable for compensation for the damage caused.
Yes, one or several members. Yes, at least two members.
Yes, but it cannot be the member of the management board. At least 3 members according to the statute.
Yes. The auditors must be submitted to the commercial register. An auditor may be appointed to conduct a single audit or for a specified term.
Yes, only at Notary.
N/A
Yes.
Yes, if active in any of the following
• Construction
• Financial and insurance activities
• Information and communication
• Selling alcohol and tobacco
Accounting is needed and the organization must submit an annual report every year.
Yes. Electronically and digitally signed; or an application submitted by a Notary.
State fee for online registration: 30 €. Fee through a Notary 35,75 €.
Yes, if the annual turnover exceeds 40 000 €.
fields:
• Media
• Agriculture
• Transport and industry
• Energy
USEFUL LINKS/CONTACTS
COUNSELLING:
• Töötukassa www.tootukassa.ee/en
• Maakondlike Arenduskeskuste Võrgustik www.arenduskeskused.ee
• Enterprise Estonia (EIS) eis.ee
WEBSITES:
• Estonian State Portal www.eesti.ee
• e-Business Register ariregister.rik.ee/eng
• Tax and Customs Board www.emta.ee/eng
• Notaries in Estonia www.notar.ee/en/notaries/list
• Hooandja (crowdfunding) www.hooandja.ee
• Kredex (loans) kredex.ee/en
• State Shared Service Centre (Riigi tugiteenuste keskus) www.rtk. ee/en
• Agricultural Registers and Information Board www.pria.ee/en
• Environmental Investment Centre kik.ee/en
• Rural Development Foundation www.mes.ee
Please note that depending on the type of the company and process you prefer to undergo setting up a company is also possible online. More information can be found on www.eesti.ee
Overall, the recommended formulation is OÜ as the liability is transferred to the company rather than private person.
The non-profit organizations clearly indicate to the nature of nonprofit, but recently more and more of the NGOs are dealing with social entrepreneurship.
Although setting up a company in Estonia might be an easy process, it is critical that you think well through your business idea in long terms, e.g.:
• What exactly is it that you want to do, which problem you are solving or what kind of benefit your customers would gain from your business?
• Who are your customers?
• Why should a customer buy services from you?
• How do you market your service or product?
• Which resources would you need?
6.1. SUPPORT AVAILABLE
Starting businesses are not left alone. It is general belief that businesses are the ones who create more job opportunities for everybody. There are various types of support available when considering business set up:
TÖÖTUKASSA
• counselling and training
• financial support up to 6000 EUR if:
• established as OÜ or FIE
• registered as unemployed or jobseeker if not working, but receiving old age pension
• at least 18 years old
• attended enterpreneurship training or diploma in economy or previous experience
MAAKONDLIK KESKUS (MAK)
• counselling and training
• mentoring
• support with developing business plan
EIS
• counselling and training
• more focus on ICT and innovation
• design thinking and innovation
• export to foreign markets
• recruitment abroad
• innovation lab with 7500 EUR support + 20% own financing
• start up support up to 20 000 EUR
Don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals for discussing your business idea and how you could proceed further with materializing that idea.
OTHER MECHANISMS
• personal funds
• Hooandja www.hooandja.ee (crowdfunding)
• Grants for projects
• Loans, e.g Kredex and other banks
• Agriculture: PRIA (www.pria.ee)
NOTES
7. CHILDREN AND FAMILY
Many people value Estonia for being safe place to raise children and the support the government is providing to families.
These are some key aspects about family life in Estonia:
• Usually, the family consists of a married or cohabiting couple and their child or children, or a single parent with one or more children.
• The average Estonian family has one to three children.
• Everyone chooses the partner they love and want to live with (as a married couple or as cohabiting partners).
• Same-sex partners can live together in Estonia and register their cohabitation, from 2024 they can legally marry.
• Couples with or without children often also live together without getting married.
• Elderly relatives usually live separately, either on their own or in nursing homes. If they cannot cope on their own, their immediate family should take care of them. Children generally move out of home to go to university or start living independently between the ages of 16 and 22.
• Men and women make decisions that concern the family and household together.
• Home and housework are a shared responsibility for all family members
• Children (both boys and girls) also do housework.
• Both men and women go to work. Children depending on the age go to kindergarten or school.
Raising children is the responsibility of both, mother and father.
Many mothers go out to work and an increasing number of fathers take the decision to stay at home and look after their child for a while after the birth.
7.1. RAISING A CHILD IN ESTONIA
In Estonia, parents are responsible for keeping children safe from any harm and for supervising them both inside and outside their home.
Raising children is always a challenging task but raising them in a foreign country has its own unique challenges. It will take time to create your own networks in Estonia, thus it will be very important that parents support and help each other every day.
Parenting is a challenge and there is no clear right or wrong way. Children will need to know that it is acceptable to fail before they will succeed. You learn from every mistake you make and get smarter from it.
!Important things to consider when raising your child:
• As parents it is important that you allow your children to solve their own problems.
• Don’t transfer your own fears and negative experiences onto your children.
• Children experience the same feelings as you when they move to a foreign country. Be supportive and help your children to build up a new life in Estonia.
• Teach children life skills.
• Your children will learn the local language faster than you. Use this opportunity to learn the language from them, but never use a child as an interpreter. Remember that they are children and some important information might get lost in translation.
• Children love routine, enable them to have routine in their days.
• Screens (smartphones, tablets, computers) cannot replace parenting but rather create an addiction. Limit screen time as much as possible.
Since the pace of life is often fast in Estonia and both parents are expected to work, finding time to spend with children can be challenging. Activities such as family meals and bedtime can be important opportunities for nurture and for continuing cultural traditions.
7.2. OBLIGATIONS OF PARENTS
• Both parents are responsible for raising their children.
• Pursuant to the laws of Estonia, a person is a child until they turn 18.
• Many parents continue to support their children into their adulthood.
• Children who have reached the age of 7 by October 1 of the current year are subject to compulsory schooling. In the 2025/2026 academic year, students entering 9th grade are subject to compulsory schooling until they reach the age of 18 or obtain vocational or secondary education.
• The state may take away the parental rights if the parents do not take care of their children.
• Parents or guardians are responsible for the damage caused by their children (e.g. in case of vandalism).
• Parents must not hit and never sexually abuse children (both are punishable offences).
7.3. RIGHTS OF THE CHILDREN
Always ensure that the rights of the child are protected. Each child has the right to:
• Life, health, and development;
• Protection from all forms of violence and abuse;
• Have a say in all issues related to them in the family, in school, and in the society in general.
Each child has the right to protection from violence and abuse. You as a parent and other people surrounding the child are obligated to:
• Refrain from any physical, mental, or sexual violence and abuse towards the child;
• Explain the child their rights and encourage the child to speak about their fears and worries;
• Take note if the child may have been abused and communicate this suspicion to the police-by calling 112, the local government, and the 24hour child protection hotline 116111.
In case of any kind of abuse, but especially in case of sexual abuse, it is important for the child to have the courage to talk about what happened to them, and for them to be taken seriously.
Any sort of physical punishment (any use of force that may hurt the child), threatening, humiliation, insulting and intimidation of the child is forbidden in Estonia. If you or someone that you know needs assistance in raising their child without using such methods, helpful advice can be found in the portal www.tarkvanem.ee.
Always try to prevent violence and bullying between children. When witnessing bullying you must intervene. You can raise this issue with the other parents and school/kindergarten/hobby classes. Be aware of cyberbullying.
In Estonia, the rights of the children are regulated under the Child Protection Act. Children’s Welfare Department, at Sotsiaalkindlustusamet, supports local governments in resolving individual cases. Read more: sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee/en/ child-and-adult-need-help/child-protection-and-family-support
CONTACT:
Web: www.lasteabi.ee
E-mail: info@lasteabi.ee
Phone: 116111 (24-hour, free of charge)
Missing children phone 116000
The Missing Children's Phone 116000 is a free 24-hour phone to announce a missing child or get advice on topics related to it.
If you have any kind of emergency related to a child, you must notify instantly to the emergency number 112 free of charge.
7.4. LIVING TOGETHER AS A FAMILY
The nuclear family is the traditional type of family structure in Estonia, i.e. it consists of a married or cohabiting couple and their child or children, or a single parent with one or more children.
Even though in Estonia, cohabitation is very common, if you are planning to get married there are some things you should be aware of:
Marriage
• In Estonia, you can choose who you marry. Origins and religion of future husband/wife are not important.
• In Estonia, you can marry without your parents’ consent if you are at least 18 years old.
• A marriage must be registered in a national registry office.
• You can only be married to one person at a time, you might be requested to submit a certificate showing that you are not already married. In case you do not have it and you cannot get it from your country of origin, the courts might certify your marital status.
• According to the Estonian Constitution spouses are equal, which means that the same laws apply to both husband and wife.
• Both spouses have the right to choose their surname, area of activity, profession, and place of residence.
• A marriage ends with the death of one of the spouses or with divorce.
Divorce
• Either husband or wife may file for divorce without the consent of the other party.
• Divorces are processed by a court, and in certain cases by a registry office (if there are no underage children and the spouses have reached an agreement).
• If parents cannot agree on who will gain custody of the children following their divorce, the court will decide what is best for the children.
• Both parents still must support their children even if they start living with the other parent after your divorce.
• The obligation of care (of ex-wife/husband) might continue even after divorce if the other person is not capable of taking care of himself/herself.
• The property acquired by spouses during marriage is in joint ownership.
7.5. ALLOWANCES FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN
To provide support to families, Estonia has following allowances in place (2021 rates).
Main family allowances
Birth allowances:
• One time sum 320 EUR/per child. Paid by the state after submission of application via www.eesti.ee
• Municipalities have one time support per child. check from www.eesti.ee or ask social worker
Child allowance:
• paid monthly until the child is 16 y.o or 19, if continues in school
• 80 EUR/per first and second child
• 100 EUR/ per third and following children
Allowance for a family with many children:
• families with 3-6 children are entitled to additional 450 EUR/month
• families with 7+ children are entitled to 650 EUR/month
Additional support might be applied for parents raising children below 3 years old and for single parents. Some of the allowances need to be applied for via www.eesti.ee and/or self-service of Sotsiaalkindlustusamet. For others you would receive automatic notification which you need to accept.
You can discuss the needs of your family with the social worker of the local municipality or the support person.
For more information on allowances, please contact:
Sotsiaalkindlustusamet
Web: www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee
E-mail: info@sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee
Phone: 612 1360
The mentioned allowances will be deducted from the subsistence benefit as they are considered as monthly income. However, if you work, you will keep both – your earned net salary and the child allowance.
7.6. PARENTAL LEAVE
In Estonia, parents are eligible for various child-related benefits. An employed mother is entitled to 100 days of maternity leave, at least 70 days before the due date determined by a doctor or midwife and 30 days after the birth of the child. Fathers are also entitled to a total of 30 working days of paternity leave.
For more information on maternity leave, please visit: sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee/en/ family-benefits-and-allowances/family-benefits-overview/maternity-benefit-andmaternity-leave
After this period, both the mother and father are entitled to parental leave until the child reaches the age of three. Only one parent can take leave at a time.
For more information on parental leave and available benefits, please visit: www.eesti.ee.
7.7. DISPUTES, CRISES VIOLENCE IN THE FAMILY
Crises and arguments can occur in any family. However, if the arguments are frequent and end up in violence and abuse, you should ask for professional help. In Estonia, a lot of effort is put into prevent and end violence and abuse. In Estonia, doing physical and psychological harm are forbidden by law.
There are organizations which are dealing with these issues and help people in need. Everyone deserves to feel valued, respected, and safe. For that, involvement of each member of the society is needed to avoid the pattern
If you suspect domestic abuse or violence among people you know, or believe to be subject to it yourself, it is important to seek help.
Sometimes it can be difficult to take the decision to report these issues, but you should not be afraid to do it. You should seek for help as soon as possible before it is too late.
Domestic violence and abuse can happen to anyone, it can be emotional, physical, economic or sexual.
Both men and women can be abused. Children in homes with domestic violence are always considered as victims if there is a violent relationship between parents regardless whether they have been directly abused by parents. These children are also more likely to be abandoned or even abused. Abusive behaviour is never acceptable, regardless the abuser – a man, a woman, a teenager, or an older adult.
Emotional violence
criticism, disparagement, namecalling, accusation, humiliation, intimidation and threats, manipulation, ignoring, expressing jealousy, systematic controlling (including controlling the movement communication and usage of money), social isolation (incl. limitation or prohibition of spending time with friends and relatives or on one’s hobbies)
Physical violence
pushing, scratching, grabbing, shaking, throwing a person with an object, hitting with a hand, leg or any other object, beating, hair pulling, strangulation, biting, poisoning, burning, retention, tying up, use of cold or firearms
Sexual violence
undesirable touching and comments forced sexual conduct, causing pain, physical violence to the intimate parts of the body, rape.
Economic violence
taking hold of partner’s money, keeping partners bank cards, constant criticism of purchases made by the partner, creating a situation where the partner needs to beg money for purchases, strict control of household purchases, writing commonly acquired property on one’s own name, forcing the victim to engage in illegal transactions, causing debts to the victim
TENSIONBUILDS
IN MOST CASES DOMESTIC VIOLENCE OCCURS IN A CYCLE
ACTOFVIOLENC
EXCUSES AND APOLOGIES
Because of excuses and apologies, often the victim does not recognize he/ she is subject to violence and abuse and for this reason he/she would not seek for help. The image of their family, fear of harming the person who is experiencing violence and abuse or even fear of harming the abuser, might be some of the reasons stopping people to intervene. If you know someone who you think or know is being abused – such as a family member, a friend, a co-worker etc. – consider helping that person by advising to seek help and contacting an agency that can provide assistance. If you witness violence, but do not take any action, you have taken the abuser’s side and thus you are approving the violence.
All physical abuse should be immediately reported to the police 112. Especially if there is need for quick intervention from the police or ambulance. When violence happens, a crime is committed. Depending on the severity of the crime, the punishment can be even imprisonment. The length of imprisonment can vary from up to 1 to 12 years. When a person is behaving disrespectfully towards other people, threaten them or use physical violence, then they are breaking the law and can be subject to legal prosecution. People always have the right to say "no", and then it also means "no."
iAssistance/help provided:
• The Police should be reported in case of violence. If immediate intervention is needed, then call 112. In some cases, person might also need to see a doctor after the violent act.
• In case children are victims you must report directly to the municipal child protection officer or child helpline 116 111
USEFUL VOCABULARY
i
Abielu
Kooselu
Perekond
Laps
Lapsetoetus
Vanemapuhkus
Vägivald
Lahutus
Turvakodu
Marriage
Cohabitation
Family
Child
Child allowance
Parental leave
Violence
Divorce
Shelter
You are in charge of your own health and health of your children.
Health is not only about avoiding diseases, but it is also about physical, mental and social wellbeing. When you live a healthy lifestyle, you are a more positive role model to other people in the family, particularly to your children.
Healthy children make healthy adults, you as a parent are responsible to give your children a good example.
Here are some tips on how to have a healthy lifestyle:
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE
Don’t forget the supplements, in this climate you should consume additional vitamin D as you can’t get it naturally for most of the year. You should consult your doctor and do a blood test in order to know how much vitamin D supplement you should take, because overdosing vitamin D can also harm your body.
If you feel physically or mentally unwell you should seek help.
In case you have experienced a life-threatening event, like a war, natural disaster or sexual assault and you have symptoms like anxiety, nightmares, flashbacks, emotional numbness, feeling of guilt and sadness, you may have PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder). PTSD can happen to anyone. It is not a sign of weakness. Turn to your family doctor or to a psychiatrist to seek help.
Depending on your health problem, you can find help as follows:
Health system in Estonia
You are not feeling well
Pharmacy
Another specialist doctor
Day care
• Gynecologist
• Dermatologist
• Psychiatrist
• Traumatologist
• Chronic illness
• Tubercolosis
Family doctor (GP)
Emergency care
Hospitalization
• Back home
• Family doctor
• Specialist
• Psysiotherapy
• Referral to other hospital
You should visit a dentist, gynaecologist or men’s doctor (andrologists and urologists) regularly - for example once a year and then per doctor’s suggestions.
Health Portal – www.terviseportaal.ee – through which you can check who is your family doctor (if you have one), if you have valid insurance, recent health incidents/check-ups, prescriptions, sick leave notifications etc.
8.1. HEALTH INSURANCE
In Estonia, the costs for medical treatment, a stay in hospital or medicines are generally paid by your health insurance fund, so it is important to have state or private health insurance.
The Estonian Health Insurance Fund (Eesti Haigekassa) administers the Estonian state health insurance system.
If you are eligible for the state health insurance, you can use the health care services (which are partially or totally free), get discounts for prescription medicines, receive financial compensation in case of illness, and many other services promoting health.
totally or partially free health care services
discounts for prescription medicine
Sick leave coverage
reimbursement on dental care
If your place of residence has been entered in the Estonian Population Register you are in most cases enrolled for national health insurance if you are:
• receiving parental benefit
• working on the basis of work contract
• under the age of 19 y.o
• joining the health insurance system voluntarily
• a student
• receiving state pension granted in Estonia
• registered as unemployed in Töötukassa
• a dependent spouse of insured person
• a pregnant woman, if pregnancy determined by a midwive or medical doctor
• receiving subsistence benefit
For a person with the state health care insurance, most of the medical services and treatment are free of charge in state medical facilities.
The only expenses, which must be made, are the appointment charges, as determined by the Health Insurance Fund and/or the medical institution, and, in case of a hospital stay, the in-patient fee.
• A visit to a family doctor, Free
• Visit to a specialized doctor, up to 20 EUR (NB in private clinics the fees are higher)
• PS! Dentists not included!
• In-patient fee per 24 hours, up to 5 EUR per day
iMore specific information is available on Eesti Tervisekassa (the Estonian Health Insurance Fund):
• Webpage www.tervisekassa.ee
• Phone at +372 669 6630
8.2. FAMILY DOCTOR
In Estonia family doctor is your primary reference point in case of questions concerning your mental and physical health.
The family doctor will provide primary health care and, if necessary, refer you for additional testing or to a specialist. Depending on the health issue, you can book an appointment for a visit or receive advice via telephone or e-mail.
The waiting period for an appointment with a specialist may be several months long; for this reason, you should discuss your health care concerns first with your family doctor.
You may need to have translator with you when you visit your family doctor. Please ask help from your support person.
In most cases you cannot see a specialist doctor without referral letter from your Family doctor. Exceptions are:
• Gynaecologist
• Dermatologist
• Ophthalmologist
• Psychiatrist
• Traumatology
• Chronic illness
• Tuberculosis
• Dentist
If the doctor gives you some diagnosis, which you do not understand, ask them to clarify it! It is part of their job to explain it so that you would understand. You always have the right to consult another doctor and ask for a second opinion.
Be aware that doctors can often advise treatment without prescribing any drug.
Find a family doctor whose list you would like to register to
Find the family doctors' list on www.tervisekassa.ee/en. Please go to the section For the individual > Healthcare services > Primary healthcare
Fill in the application
Find the application on www.tervisekassa.ee/en in the Primary healthcare section.
PS! Application can only be filled in and submitted in Estonian!
Send or take the application to the doctor's office
Tip: you can sign the application digitally with your ID-card and send it by e-mail.
PS! A separate application must be submitted for each family member.
Wait 7 work-days for the answer
A family doctor may decline your application if their list is full or if you don’t live in the doctor’s service area according to the Estonian Population Register. If the answer is negative, find another doctor and repeat the process.
All Estonian citizens and foreigners legally residing in Estonia on the basis of a residence permit or the right of residence, can register themselves with a family doctor. When a child is born, they will automatically be registered to their mother’s family doctor.
Everyone has the right to choose or change their family doctor. If you change your place of residence, you should also change your family doctor.
To register with or change your family doctor you must send in an application or take it to the doctor’s office.
A separate application must be submitted for each family member.
In case you have any difficulty with the registration with the family doctor please contact your support person or The Health Board.
CONTACT:
The Health Board
Web: www.terviseamet.ee
Phone: 7943500
E-mail: info@terviseamet.ee
!Family doctors’ lists can be accessed at the address tervisekassa.ee/en/ primary-health-care.
For additional information you can contact one of the family doctor’s centres directly.
In cases of minor health issues when your doctor is not available, you can also contact the Estonian family physicians’ state-wide advisory line by dialling 1220.
The service is accessible in Estonian and Russian 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. During certain hours of the day (9:00-17:00), the advice is also given in English. NB standard call rates apply.
Your identity will not be recorded unless you ask for personalized advice on the basis of your previous health data. This service is also available to individuals who do not have medical insurance. 91
MEDICAL
You can trust doctors in Estonia, tell them the problems you have and leave nothing out, because without knowing your full story they might not be able to assist you. It doesn’t matter if it is about your body or mind. All doctors must treat your medical information in full confidentiality, and this also applies to the interpreters. Any preach of confidentiality is punishable by law. Without your permission, doctors are not allowed to pass on information about you to others (for example, authorities, your employer, or family members). Sometimes this also applies to information about the health of your children. For example, your 16-year-old daughter’s gynaecologist cannot give you information about her medical examination results without your daughter’s permission.
Respect the privacy of spouse and children.
8.5. MEDICATIONS
In Estonia medicine can be bought only from a pharmacy.
Medicine to treat the common cold or some of the other illnesses is purchased over the counter at a pharmacy without doctor’s prescription. The pharmacist can advise you on some medications.
!The location and hours of operation of the pharmacy nearest to you can be found on the webpage www.apteegiinfo.ee/info and www.raviminfo.ee.
If you become more severely ill, or should you require stronger medication, the doctor will prescribe medications for you electronically with a digital prescription. This means that the prescription is recorded in the system and the pharmacist will be able to see the prescription through your resident card.
!To purchase medications prescribed by your doctor you must present your residence card at the pharmacy.
Medications are prescribed for you to get better, so you should buy them and use them as advised by the doctor.
8.6. PREVENTIVE MEDICAL CHECK-UPS AND VACCINATIONS
Many illnesses are easy to treat if they are diagnosed at an early stage.
Early recognition examinations and preventive check-ups for children and adults help to do this. It is important that children, men take good care of their health and have regular visits to doctor and specialists.
!National medical screenings (for example cancer screenings) are organised to test people for signs of disease. Free of charge screenings are organised for men and women in certain age groups. If you receive an invitation it is very important to participate. If you notice public campaigns which call to attend a screening, and which is targeted to your age group, do participate. Remember that finding cancers at an early stage can save lives.
93
Vaccinations are one of the most important and effective preventive measures.
There are some protective vaccinations that are officially recommended but having vaccinations is voluntary in Estonia.
To protect yourself against various infectious diseases, it is recommended that you get vaccinated. Ask you family doctor for further information.
In case of a child or a person with limited legal capacity (restricted active legal capacity) the decision regarding the vaccination will be made by the parent or his/her legal representative.
8.7. DENTAL CARE
In Estonia dental care is free only for children and young people under the age of 19 if they use dental care provided by the contractual partners of Tervisekassa. All other dental care costs must be paid.
Several compensations for dental treatment are available for adults that have health insurance.
Invest your time for children’s healthy teeth and take them to the dentist at least once a year.
For adults with health insurance some dental benefits are available. All adults with state health insurance will receive a dental allowance of 60€ per year, with the patient paying at least 50%.
Dental care benefits of up to €105 per year, with the patient paying at least 12.5% of the cost, are available to:
• all insured women who are pregnant or mothers of children under 1 year of age
• old-age and disability pensioners, people with partial or no working capacity, senior citizens over 63 years of age
• unemployed persons registered with the Unemployment Insurance Fund
• persons who have received subsistence benefits under the Social Welfare Act during the two calendar months preceding the month of receiving dental care services
Free dental care is available in case of emergency. However, whether the case is classified as an emergency or not is the decision of the dentist.
Ask for further information from your dentist.
You can find more information on the Estonian Health Insurance Fund (Tervisekassa) webpage www.tervisekassa.ee/en/people/dental-care
8.8. EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE (EMO)
In the event of accidents or emergencies you can go to the emergency room of the hospital nearest you or phone for an ambulance at 112.
Emergency medical care is covered to everyone, regardless whether you have health insurance or not. This means the provision of urgent medical care which, if postponed, may place the patient’s life and health in danger. You need to pay a fee of 20 € in the reception.
8.9. MENTAL HEALTH
Your mental health affects every aspect of your life, so don’t forget about taking care of your mental health, if you want to be a healthy person.
Self-diagnosing mental disorders is not a good option as most people are not fully aware of all aspects of mental disorders. We all experience some symptoms of different mental diseases, but on a smaller scale.
You should keep in mind that if your mental health related symptoms are starting to interfere your life, seek professional advice.
There are some situations in which you should immediately contact a doctor or a specialist. These include:
• The person threatens suicide or is thinking of harming themselves
• The person is attempting to or thinking of harming others
• The person can’t control anger attacks and fury even if they try hard
• The person doesn’t eat for a long time
• The person can’t sleep for several days in a row
• The person can’t name very simple facts of their life, like their age, name, town of residence
Where to get help?
Peaasi.ee has written out steps how to help yourself if you find yourself in a difficult mental health situation. The steps are following:
1. I decide that my mental state has changed, and I am not happy with it.
2. I book an appointment with a specialist – with a family doctor, a psychiatrist or a clinical psychologist. If my mental state doesn’t allow to book it on my own, I am asking for help.
3. During the wait until my appointment, I study about keeping myself healthy and use some suggestions to make myself feel better – I try to better my sleep, eat healthy, have some regular physical activity and stay in touch with other people.
4. I go to my appointment. I will take a close one with me, if it feels too difficult to do it alone.
5. I tell myself thank you! The first four steps towards healing are done.
Discuss your situation with your family doctor. If you do not have a family doctor yet you can discuss it also with the social worker of the municipality or your support person. There is some help available for beneficiaries of international protection.
Alternatively, you can also call a helpline
Child Helpline: 116111 (24h)
Victim support crisis hotline 116 006 (24h)
Emotional support hotline 116 123 (every day 10-24)
Book an online chat
If you are 12-26 years old, you can also book an online chat with Peaasi. ee mental health counselors here: noustamine.peaasi.ee/en/noored. If you are older, you can just contact them through the contact form on noustamine.peaasi.ee/en/kysi-noustajalt.
Book an appointment at an outpatient clinic
You can book an appointment by calling the reception of an outpatient clinic. It is recommended to contact the mental health nurse first, so they can evaluate your situation and refer you to a psychiatrist or a clinical psychologist depending on your situation.
You don’t need a referral, if you want to book an appointment with a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist can evaluate your state of health, give appropriate recommendations for treatment, prescribe prescription drugs and refer patients to a psychotherapy.
If you want to meet a clinical psychologist, then you will need a referral. A clinical psychologist can evaluate your state of health, give recommendations for treatment, refer patients to psychiatrist if necessary, but does not prescribe medication.
Keep in mind that in outpatient clinics there might be long appointment wait times – approximately a month or two. A 20-euro visit fee applies to patients over 18 years of age with health insurance.
Book an appointment at a private clinic
You can also book an appointment with a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist at a private clinic. The treatment options are the same, but appointments at a private clinic are not free. Private clinics and medical practitioners usually have a contract with the Health Insurance Fund or the local government, which means that only part of the costs have to be paid for. The waiting lists in private practices are usually shorter than in outpatient clinics.
8.10. PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
People with disabilities are eligible for social benefits paid by the state if they have additional expenses due to their disability. For example, if you need assistance, care, medical rehabilitation or have additional expenses related to transport, employment or studies, these can be covered by the state to some extent.
In order to get state benefits, your disability needs to be assessed regularly at least once in every five years. If you want your disability to be assessed, you need to contact Sotsiaalkindlustusamet or the social worker in your local municipality.
Find more information here: Sotsiaalkindlustusamet www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee info@sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee
Eesti Puuetega Inimeste Koda (Estonian Chamber of Disabled People) www.epikoda.ee epikoda@epikoda.ee
USEFUL VOCABULARY
Ma olen haige. I am sick.
Tervisekindlustus Health insurance
Perearst Family doctor
Ravim Medication
Apteek Pharmacy
Külmetus/gripp
Cold/flu
Haigla Hospital
Registratuur Reception
Vaktsineerimine
Hambaravi
Vaccination
Dental care
Erakorralise meditsiini osakond (EMO) Emergency medical care
Visiiditasu
Visit fee
Kiirabi Ambulance
NOTES
9. HOUSING
You must register your place of residence within one month after you are have been informed of receiving the residence permit. Note that registration of place of residence is a basis for very many services. Thus, do it as one of the top priorities.
You can register your address at your local government office, or electronically by using your residence card in Rahvastikuregister (E-population register - www. rahvastikuregister.ee) or in the State Portal www.eesti.ee. In case of latter, you should do to the section “housing and environment”. Should you change your place of living, change your registration into your new flat. Do not forget to inform different service providers of your move.
The staff at the accommodation centre and your support person can help you to find a place to live. Try to be optimistic and active in finding a house.
The state can cover the costs related to signing your first rental contract in Estonia (which include real estate charges, first rent payment, deposit payments). Note that this is only one-time off support and certain limits apply. You can use this support within two years after receiving international protection, but please note that your personal circumstances will be taken into consideration. If you desire to move afterwards, then you need to cover all these costs. In case you will leave Estonia for more than 90 days, you will no longer receive this support, even if you return.
For more information contact the accommodation centre or your support person.
In case there is a need, you can apply for support from the local government to cover monthly payments for rent and utilities (electricity, water, heating etc.).
If you are looking for an apartment, internet is the first source of information.
There you will find providers who specialize in acting as agents for flats and houses.
In Estonia the main internet portals are:
• City24.ee (www.city24.ee)
• KV.ee (www.kv.ee)
• Kinnisvara24 (www.kinnisvara24.ee)
• Rendin (www.rendin.ee/en)
9.1. RENTAL
As your first place of residence, it is most economical to rent an apartment.
Find several apartments that you like and that suit your budget
Contact the brokers to arrange visits to the apartments
You should look for a rental through open market, meaning the state does not have any apartments to give, they would be rented from other residents in Estonia. This can cause some delays and difficulties as locals are not often too willing to rent their house to foreigners. Have patience and an open mind. 2 1 3 4
Go to the apartments on arranged time to see if they are suitable for you
Ask broker/landlord about the details and check if everything is working
Let the broker/landlord know if you would want to rent this apartment
Agree with the landlord when you can move in and arrange the next
Agree with the landlord when you can move in and arrange the next
When renting an apartment, a contract (lease) is made between the landlord and the tenant (you). The lease specifies the amount of rent, the procedures for paying for utilities, extending or ending the lease, and any other rights and responsibilities of the landlord and tenant.
Make sure you sign a lease agreement as you need this for registering your place of residence, which is needed for accessing services.
In addition to the lease, you might have to sign a handover certificate. This records the items in the accommodation and the condition of the flat when you moved in. Be careful while signing it, the landlord could later claim that you are responsible for defects that are not mentioned in this certificate.
Never agree to a lease which is not in writing and you do not understand fully. Keep in mind that the contract must follow the Law of Obligations Act and the landlord nor the broker can't set requirements or obligations that don't follow the law.
Note that during wintertime your costs would be higher than summertime because of the heating and darker period requiring more electricity consumption.
Rental and utility costs can be high in Estonia. Therefore, it is important that all adult members of the family work to provide good living environment.
Always inform the future landlord about pets if you have any. In case you plan to have a pet during the tenancy, get permit from the landlord first - they might object.
CHECKLIST
Before agreeing and signing a lease, you should make sure you know all the relevant details, for example:
• How much the deposit is;
• How much the rent is;
• What are the procedures for paying for utilities and the average cost for the bills in summer and in winter;
• If there are any brokerage fees (e.g. from the estate agent);
• The length of the tenancy and termination clause;
• If there are any obligations on the tenant to redecorate the flat
• Check for items that are unusable or that need repair, and ask the landlord to fix these items (In this way you avoid the situation that the landlord would hold you responsible for the repair of objects that previous tenants have ruined or destroyed).
Also note that many landlords do not allow smoking in their apartment. We advise you to check on this in advance and ask if smoking is allowed indoors or you should do it outdoors.
9.2. HEATING THE HOUSE
If you choose to live in an apartment with a woodstove, you must obtain firewood, and in wintertime you must heat the stoves or ovens regularly. If you do not, the apartment will be very cold; dampness, even frost will come into the apartment, and if the winter is particularly cold, the water pipes may freeze.
If you choose an apartment where heating is by means of a woodstove, learn to use it properly, and never leave a fire unattended.
Electric heating is usually very expensive in the wintertime. In order to plan your expenses, ask your landlord for the winter electric bills of the previous tenant.
All apartments must have a functioning smoke alarm and the carbon monoxide alarm if the apartment has gas system installed. Periodically you should check to see whether a smoke alarm is functioning by pressing on the control button. If there is no smoke alarm in the apartment, agree with the landlord how and when it will be installed. If these things are not in place or not functioning it might be fined and it can be an actual threat to your life.
9.3. METRE READINGS AND BILLS
Make sure you understand where you must submit metre readings for utilities (water, electricity, etc.).
Some figures can be read automatically (for example, electricity), and the bill is sent to you automatically, but for others you may have to present metre readings (electronically or on paper) to the accountant of the apartment building association or directly to the service provider.
You can also ask directly from your landlord how the metre showings are submitted.
If you are receiving aid from the state for renting an apartment, ask the association and other utilities service providers to forward bills electronically.
Make sure that your e-mail address is working, and check your Inbox regularly.
9.4. PRESERVE THE GOOD CONDITIONS OF YOUR HOME
As a tenant of a house or a flat you have specific obligations. For example, you must pay the agreed rent on agreed time. But you also have rights, for example, if major repair work is needed. Inform the landlord of anything that has broken down, stopped working or anything that you would like to change.
Here are some tips on how to preserve the good conditions of your home:
• Clean your apartment regularly.
• Do not walk around in your apartment (except for the hallway of the apartment building) with the shoes you wear outside—this way the floors will remain cleaner.
• If you have children, teach them how to handle the objects and furniture in your apartment.
• Do not let them draw on the walls, jump on the couch or bed, or pull down the curtains. In such cases the landlord may order you to repair the damaged items and/or pay for repairs, and even cancel the lease.
• Do not leave food lying around, because it will attract pests (cockroaches, mice, etc).
• Always turn stoves and faucets off completely after the use.
• If you leave home for a longer period, turn off the water in the apartment. This will prevent leaks, which may damage your living space, as well as the apartments next to you or on the floor below.
• Obtain the phone numbers where you can get quick help in case of a burst pipe, a household gas accident, blocked pipe or power outage, and have these phone numbers handy. If necessary, ask your landlord for help in finding these phone numbers. Handling household emergencies is a service for which a fee must be paid.
Know where the fuse box is located and know how to handle it – in case you need to switch of electricity for the whole flat.
9.5. RULES OF COMMUNITY LIFE
In Estonia it is very important to respect the neighbours and the rules of the community life.
In most apartment buildings there are house rules, this is a voluntary arrangement written down by the building association, which you agree to by signing the tenancy agreement. The house rules specify the rules for all residents of the apartment building. These regulations can vary, but they usually touch on the following points.
The resident is required to:
• Use living space and other facilities as intended and to maintain them;
• Conserve energy by providing additional insulation for doors and windows (especially in wintertime);
• Notify the building supervisor or agency immediately of any breakdowns, accidents, or dangerous situations that occur, while at the same time using all available means to solve the problem or eliminate the danger;
• Follow safety regulations when using electrical and other devices;
• Maintain cleanliness and order in community space (the hallway, cellar, attic, sauna, etc.) and to avoid damage to equipment in these facilities;
• Close and lock the outer doors of the building and use care in opening and closing them;
• Put trash in its proper place, not next to the trash bin, you can be charged extra for all trash you have placed outside of the bin or for not sorting the garbage
• Hang clothes out to dry in the appropriate places;
• Obey sanitary, hygiene and safety regulations; if you have a dog, cat, or other pet in your apartment, you must not let them make the hallway dirty or the property around the building; if a pet has done so, the owner must clean up after it immediately; you must also make sure that your pet is not a danger to other residents;
• Follow other regulations as stated in the association’s constitution and the laws of the Republic of Estonia.
In a living space it is prohibited to:
• Make excessive noise that disturbs neighbours after 23.00 and till 7.00 in the morning
• Keep items or substances in apartments or common rooms that pollute the air;
• Flush flammable substances, rags, packages, and other items that might cause blockage into the piping system;
• Keep flammable items in the living space for longer than necessary for immediate household use;
• Place items on balcony that extend over the balcony’s edge;
• Make fire or barbecue on your balcony
• Clean rugs, bedding and other household items by shaking dust from them out of the window;
• Keep a cat, dog, or other pet in an apartment if sanitary, hygiene, and safety rules are not observed;
• Enter the technical facilities in the building (heating room, water main, fuse room, etc.) or go onto the roof;
• Destroy or remove the seals placed on electric or cold water metres;
• Carry out activities, either in the apartment or the hallway that damage the rooms or disturb the normal living activities of other residents;
• Alter, without written permission from the association board, the outer appearance of the building, to close off balconies, place bars on the windows, or change the interior decoration of the stairwell;
• To install, without written permission from the association board, individual radio or television equipment on the roof or facade of the building;
• Engage in any other activities, which may conflict with the constitution of the building association, the regulations of local government, or the laws of the Republic of Estonia.
• You can ask a copy of the house rules from your landlord
• Follow the rules and regulations of your apartment building.
• In case of questions or problems, contact the landlord.
9.6. WASTE DISPOSAL
In many Estonian apartment buildings waste is collected and disposed of after having been separated into different categories.
There are usually separate bins for paper and cardboard, organic waste (such as fruit and vegetable waste) and all other waste.
In addition, there are collection points or containers for other types of waste, for example, for glass and for special waste (such as varnish and paint).
Most of empty bottles and metal cans (for drinks) can be returned to collection points. You will get a refund check (0.10 EUR/bottle) from the vending machine which you can use as token in any bigger grocery shops while doing your purchases.
Batteries should be taken to battery collection points in bigger supermarkets, instead of just throwing them away. Other electronic devices should also be taken to special collection points.
Be aware about your apartment waste collection and disposal rules and follow them.
i USEFUL VOCABULARY
Elukoht
Place of residence
Kodu Home
Korter Apartment
Maja House
Üürileping Rental contract
Üürileandja Landlord
Maakler Broker
Kommunaalkulud (vesi, küte, elekter jm)
Utilities (water, heating, electricity, etc)
Arve Bill
Naaber Neighbour
Kus sa elad? Where do you live?
Minu aadress on … My address is …
Tänav Street
Linn City/town
Korrus Floor
Prügi Waste
Biolagunev Biodegradable /Compostable
Pakendikonteiner Packaging container
NOTES
10. LEARNING ESTONIAN
The official state language of Estonia is Estonian. At the same time majority of the Estonian population also speaks Russian and/or English, as well as other international languages.
You should try to learn Estonian as soon as possible.
Learning Estonian is very important to meet new people, to make yourself understood in everyday life, to find work and also to understand the local culture.
If you are not able to communicate in Estonian or an official’s lack of skill in a foreign language impedes your interaction, for example, with a health care provider or an educational institution, the accommodation centre and/or support person can provide you with help in arranging translation services.
10.1. COURSES FOR BENEFICIARIES OF INTERNATIONAL PROTECTION
If you are a beneficiary of international protection, by law you must obtain:
• A1 level knowledge of Estonian language within 1 year starting from receiving protection and residence permit,
• A2 level knowledge within 2 years from receiving protection and residence permit ,
• B1 level knowledge within 5 years from receiving international protection and residence permit.
!You can learn Estonian at levels A1-B1 through the free educational programme Settle in Estonia (www.settleinestonia.ee)
Persons who have resided in Estonia for less than five years on the basis of a residence permit or right of residence are eligible to participate in the Estonian language courses of the Settle in Estonia programme.
!Remember that by law it is your obligation to learn Estonian language and attend the classes.
The courses offered as part of the Settle in Estonia educational programme are free of charge for participants. You can register for Estonian language courses on the website www.settleinestonia.ee using your residence permit card.
The Integration Foundation (Integratsiooni Sihtasutus) offers newly arrived immigrants the opportunity to participate in activities that support Estonian language learning, such as language cafés, Estonian language and culture clubs, language study trips, language practice events, language roulette, and the language buddy program. More information is available on the Integration Foundation's websitehttps://integratsioon.ee/en/newly-arrived-immigrants/activities
10.2. OTHER WAYS TO LEARN ESTONIAN
Integration Foundation has established Estonian language houses in Tallinn (Rävala 5) and in Narva (Linda 2). Estonian language houses offer various language learning possibilities like language courses, language cafes, Estonian language and culture clubs, language practicing events and consultations with a teacher.
Beside that there are many other ways to improve and practice your Estonian language:
• Find Estonian friends who you can practice your Estonian with
• Try to memorize new words you see around you
• Try talking to yourself in Estonian
• Speak Estonian whenever and wherever possible
• Use language learning apps - like Speakly for example
• Follow your interests - consume content that would interest you in other language as well
• Try out online language courses like keeleklikk. ee and keeletee.ee
• Participate in language cafes
• Listen to Estonian radio and podcasts in Estonian
• Set specific goals that state your language level goal and due date for
• Perfect your pronunciationz
• Learn the 100 most common words first
• Watch Estonian TV shows
• Go to an Estonian language course
With some time and effort, you will be able to master Estonian language, but you have to practice it from the very beginning and as often as possible.
i USEFUL VOCABULARY
Ma ei saa aru.
Palun rääkige aeglasemalt.
Palun korrake.
Ma räägin eesti keelt natuke.
Ma räägin eesti keelt väga hästi.
Kas Te räägite inglise/ araabia/vene keelt?
I don’t understand.
Please speak more slowly.
Please say that again.
I speak Estonian a bit.
I speak Estonian very good.
Do you speak English/Arabic/ Russian?
Eesti keele kursus Estonian language course Keelekohvik Language café
NOTES
11. EDUCATION
A good education is very important as it gives you and your children an opportunity to be more successful at finding a job and to have a better quality of life. Estonians value education highly.
The Estonian education system provides people of any age or educational level with various opportunities to continue their educational path and to retraining.
The education should start already at the early age. In Estonia, it is very recommended for children from age 1,5-7 years old to go to the kindergarten. Even if they don't speak Estonian language yet, they will learn it quickly in the kindergarten and adapt to Estonian life faster and improve their social skills needed for school. In the kindergarten they can socialize with their peers and prepare for the school – school will be much easier for them if they already know at least some basics. It can be difficult to get a spot in a kindergarten, so you should register your child as soon as possible for kindergarten. Kindergarten is not free, but there is a possibility to get some financial aid from your local municipality.
If you want your child to do well in kindergarten and school, keep contact with your child's teachers. They spend many hours per day with your child, so they can tell you what your child is doing successfully and what do they need to improve.
The obligation to learn will start at the age of 7 and continue until the age of 18. The school year in Estonia starts on the 1st of September. In the beginning of the school year, the teachers will let you know what things your child would need in the kindergarten or school - like clothes, shoes, books, stationary etc. You should try to provide everything asked.
During the school year, children have five school holidays: a week in the end of October, two weeks during in the end of December, a week in the end of February, a week in the end of April and more than two months in the summer. Students usually finish the grade by the middle of the June.
Education in Estonia is free, unless it’s a private school/university, English curriculum in a university or you study part-time. Paid education is not necessarily better than free education in Estonia.
As Estonia has begun a gradual transition to Estonian-language education (to be completed by 2030), the language of instruction is generally Estonian. The exceptions are some international schools and schools offering the English IB curriculum.
If your child doesn’t speak Estonian when enrolling in school, the school must organize Estonian language lessons for them to supplement the regular curriculum. In most cases, your child would start with an individual study plan and will be integrated to
the regular curriculum step-by-step.
There is no single rule in which grade your child should continue studies in Estonia if they have already gone to school in some other country. Schools can decide which grade is the most suitable one according to their opinion, but you can discuss this question with the school and give them your reasons.
The majority of schools have adopted an e-school service (www.ekool.eu or www.stuudium.com), which enables you to follow your child’s academic progress online and contact their teachers.
Many schools have also extra curricula activities where children can participate – free of charge or with a fee.
Meals are offered in the kindergarten and during the school day. In some cases, it might be for a fee, in other cases it is free of charge. If your child has a special diet, you should inform the teacher. Sometimes the canteens can provide according to your child’s needs, but sometimes you should pack their lunch for them. Check directly with the kindergarten or school.
In every school there is a school nurse and a psychologist. Your child can visit them, if he/she is not feeling well. School nurses usually perform the yearly health check-ups.
If you are under 18 years old, you must have the permission of a parent or guardian to continue your studies.
In addition to usual schools, there are some Sunday schools organized by different national culture societies in Estonia. Sunday schools enable children to study their own language and culture and keep ties with their ethnicity.
More info at: https://www.integratsioon.ee/en/activities-national-minoritycultural-associations
If you wish to continue or begin your higher education in Estonia, and your documents proving your previous education are from outside Estonia, contact the ENIC-NARIC (www.harno.ee/en/enicnaric) office and submit your documents. This institution will confirm the correspondence of your documents with the Estonian educational system.
If you wish individual counselling on education or career, contact the nearest Rajaleidja counselling centre (www.rajaleidja.ee). The counselling centre can also assess if your 7-year-old is ready to start schooling or could stay in kindergarten for another year.
Here is the overview of Estonian education system:
KINDERGARTEN
Children in Estonia usually attend kindergarten to acquire pre-school education when they are between 1,5-7 years old. This stage is voluntary, but highly recommended for the development of a child. Kindergarten groups are usually in Estonian or Russian language.
BASIC EDUCATION
Basic education is a privilege and obligation and it is free of charge in Estonia. It is compulsory for all children to attend school full-time from the age of 7 to 18. It is parents' responsibility to ensure that their children attends to school. If your child is absent, you must inform the school about it to avoid any problems.
UPPER SECONDARY SCHOOL (HIGH SCHOOL/ GYMNASIUM)
Provides a general secondary education (3 years). In the 2025/2026 academic year, students entering 9th grade are subject to compulsory schooling until they reach the age of 18 or obtain vocational or secondary education. You can choose whichever gymnasium you want to attend as it is not limited by your place of residence. Often there are admissions examinations.
VOCATIONAL SCHOOL
You can continue your education (no matter whether it's from a high school or vocational school) in a vocational schools. It would take 0,5-4 years depending on the curriculum.
UPPER SECONDARY SCHOOL COMBINED WITH VOCATIONAL EDUCATION
Provides a general secondary education and some vocational skills (3 years). Good option to have practical education and secondary education, which allows to continue studies in higher education institutions
UNIVERSITY
Bachelor's degree (3-4 years), Master's degree (1-2 years) and PhD (3-4 years).
You can start your studies in a university no matter how old you are. The main requirement is that you have a high school diploma.
VOCATIONAL SCHOOL
Which provides both vocational education (and a specific profession) and a general secondary education (33,5 years). Good option to have practical education and secondary education, which allows to continue studies in higher education institutions.
VOCATIONAL SCHOOL
Which provides only vocational education without secondary education (2 years). As there is no secondary education included, it is more difficult to continue studies in a higher education institution afterwards. If students would want to go to university after graduation, they would need to learn everything required in the secondary school curriculum and do the state exams.
APPLIED HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION
Degree in an applied higher education institution or a college associated with a university (3-4,5 years)
If you are an adult and you are interested in continuing or starting studies, you have the following opportunities. We recommend you use this opportunity as this can advance your options in the labor market.
Complete an interrupted basic or secondary education by studying at adult school
• Some knowledge of Estonian is highly recommended.
Continue or start your studies in an higher education institution (e.g university, college)
• You can also study part-time or as an extern, but in that case you will need to pay tuition.
• Tuiton must be paid for curriculums in English too. However, there might be scholarships that cover the costs.
• Most programmes are in Estonian, thus require good knowledge of language.
Obtain a vocational education
• Education in vocational schools is mostly free
• Admission might vary from school to school
• Education provided in Estonian, but some programme might also be in Russian and English
• see more haridusportaal.edu.ee/artiklid/kutseharidus
Take some additional courses
• If you are just interested in learning new things, but not necessarily obtaining a degree, you can participate in different courses offered by private-and public entities e.g Tallinn or Tartu Folk High Schools. Search online for more information about courses.
i USEFUL VOCABULARY
Haridus Education
Lasteaed Kindergarten
Kool School
Gümnaasium High school
Ülikool University
Kõrgkool Institution of higher education
Kutsekool Vocational school
Õpilane Student
Õpetaja Teacher
Diplom Diploma
NOTES
12. EVERYDAY MONEY MATTERS
In Estonia you are expected to manage your financial affairs on your own. However, the first time you go to an office, in an institution or a bank, you may ask for the help of a friend or your support person, if available. You must find a suitable job rather fast, which enables you to have a better quality of life and pays enough for you to manage your monthly living expenses. The earlier you (and your spouse) go to work, the quicker you get a better understanding and more experience in Estonian work culture.
Although all state taxes are usually already deducted from your salary, you must pay certain ongoing expenses every month which are related to your place of residence: rent and utilities.
You will also need money for food, household items, clothing, leisure time activities, etc. Setting up your household will also require money. Your expenses may not be the same every month. Therefore:
• plan your spending carefully;
• save money for possible emergencies;
• avoid debts;
• pay bills on time. If you don’t, you may be charged interest on the unpaid amount and the service may be discontinued. Even then, you are still responsible for paying the due bills along with interest.
Most goods and services are taxed at 24%. There are some products – like books – that are taxed at the rate of 9%. This tax is already included in the price
Excise duties are imposed on alcohol, tobacco products, fuel, electric energy and packaging.
12.1. PAYMENT OPTIONS
You can pay for products and services in the following ways:
Cash
• The currency in Estonia is EURO (€)
• Coins are in units of 1-, 2-, 5-, 10-, 20- and 50-cents, 1- and 2-euros.
• Paper currency is in units of 5-, 10-, 20-, 50-, 100-, 200and 500-euros
• 100 cents = 1 euro
Debit card
• If you have a bank account, you can pay in shops with your debit card
• You will have a PIN number which you need to memorize
• You can also withdraw money from ATM
• Estonian banks issue only Mastercard and not Visa cards – be aware of that if you plan to travel abroad as your card payment options may be limited in certain countries or areas.
Digital methods
• If you have a debit card and a smartphone, you can connect them and do NFC payments or use Apple or Google Pay
Bank transfer
• Mostly used for online-shopping and sending money to other people, but also paying bills, rent, utilities, purchasing bus or train tickets or tickets to cinema, theatre, concerts etc
• You would need an internet bank account and digital ID.
• We don't recommend to use internet bank on public computers.
12.2. BANKS AND SERVICES
You can open a bank account at a bank of your choice (Swedbank, SEB Bank, LHV, etc.).
Your monthly incomes will be deposited in this bank account.
Note that some banks might want to charge you a fee for opening an account.
When choosing a bank, compare the lists of fees for services at different banks, and check to see what cash machines (ATM) are located near your home.
When you go to the bank to open an account, take your residence permit with you. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand all the conditions. If you need additional explanations, ask for them, or ask to see the contract in a language that you understand better (Estonian, Russian, or English).
12.3. CASH MACHINES (ATM)
Cash machines (ATM) offer various services. Make sure you understand what transactions are possible at each ATM machine, particularly the one you plan to use most frequently.
If you need cash, you can withdraw it from the ATM of the bank you have an account in. It is possible to do it from other banks’ ATMs too, but you might be charged for that.
When withdrawing cash from an ATM pay attention to insert the correct PIN number. If you insert the wrong PIN code 3 times in a row (even during different days), the machine will confiscate your card and you will need to apply for a new card.
12.4. FINANCIAL RISKS
A bank may also offer you opportunities for loans or a credit card.
Remember that every debt is a financial responsibility. Return payments of the loan must be regular; if not, the bank will charge you fees which will further increase your financial burden. If you do not have a stable and sufficient income, avoid credit cards and loans. Try to get by on the amount of money you have available.
In addition to the basic amount of the loan, you will have to pay interest. The total amount you have to pay back can be up to 25% more than the amount borrowed.
Besides banks, small loans are offered by instant loan (kiirlaen, sms-laen etc) agencies. These agencies transfer money to your account quickly and without a contract fee, but their interest rates are very high. For this reason, people who use these services often fall into debt and the amount they have to pay back doubles or becomes even larger.
Spend your money wisely and do not ask for a loan or a lease if you don’t have financial means to cover the expenses. When making a new purchase think if you really need it and if you can afford it (for instance a very expensive phone). Be aware that paying back loans and leases is an obligation. If you don’t pay back, the debt collectors can come, and you can be taken to the court.
In Estonia you will find shops in small towns and large cities. There are shops that specialize in certain kinds of products, such as groceries, consumer goods, cosmetics, electronics, books, and clothing. Usually, you can find all these shops in a shopping mall.
The majority of large supermarkets are opened from 8 or 9 to 22 or 23. Very few ones are open 24/7. Stores – other than food store – are usually open on workdays from 10 to 20 or 21, might close earlier on weekends. On national holidays, the food stores are open shorter time and other stores are usually closed.
In Estonia clothing and consumer products are relatively expensive. It’s good to plan purchases to sales, be more aware of prices in different shops, order online or need be visit second-hand clothing stores.
You can also ask friends and acquaintances for suggestions on finding secondhand shops in your area. Uuskasutuskeskus and Humana are the most known ones that have stores all over Estonia. Also look out for shops that have very good prices like Realiseerimiskeskus, Magaziin, Maxima and so on.
In most Estonian towns, you can find markets that offer many different products from seasonal fruits, vegetables and berries to fish, meat, clothes and items for home. Keep in mind that the range of products and their prices depend mostly on the season.
Always be on the lookout for discounts. If the expiry date allows, buy basic ingredients in larger packages, because the price per kilo is lower than for a smaller package.
Instead of going to the store, you can also use online store and order all necessary products to your home. This way you will save money as the temptation to add things to your cart on impulse is smaller.
The prices for products may vary in different shops and in different regions of Estonia.
You should consider obtaining different stores loyalty cards in order to receive discounts every time there are some campaigns available. Just keep in mind that they will collect your personal data.
12.6. HOW TO SAVE MONEY
There is no magic formula for saving money – you simply need to be sensible and critical on how you use your money. Few tips you could use:
• Keep an eye on special offers in shops and buy more when there are discounts. (check the expiring dates.)
• Buy consumer goods and clothes during sales.
• You can also buy clothes from second-hand shops.
• Order as many services as possible from the same provider and ask about special offers. For example, you can get internet and mobile phone services from the same provider and choose the one offering the best price.
• Never buy anything before checking the prices of other service providers – make sure that you get similar value for money.
• Use WhatsApp to talk or chat with your family and friends for free.
• Make sure you have turned off all the lights and taps before you leave home.
• Do not leave water running when you are not using it.
• Walk, cycle or use public transport if possible.
• Try sharing a flat with friends or other people.
• Cook at home and enough for more than one meal (you can freeze some foods and food products so they would not go waste).
• Prepare a monthly budget and keep track of what you are spending most of your money on. Think about whether you need everything you have bought or whether you are just buying things because you like them.
• Instead of buying books and films, borrow them from a library. You will need to register with a library in order to do so.
i USEFUL VOCABULARY
Kui palju see maksab? How much does it cost?
Raha Money
Sularaha Cash
Münt Coin
Pangakaart Bank card
Sularahaautomaat ATM
Internetimakse Internet payment
Ülekanne Bank transfer
Sissetulek Income
Väljaminekud Expenses
NOTES
13. ESTONIAN SOCIETY
The Estonians are strongly influenced by everything described in this guide. Some things have influenced them more than others, but they have all left their mark on society and the way it functions today.
Speaking the local language, knowing the norms and values in the society helps to communicate better with locals and adapt faster in the Estonian society.
Sometimes people moving to Estonia from abroad may find Estonians “cold” at first. This does not mean that the people don’t like you. They simply need time to get to know you. Understanding the main rules of communication and conduct will make getting around with Estonian people easier.
13.1. COMMUNICATION AND CONDUCT
Like all other cultures, Estonians have habits and traditions that concern everyday communication and conduct.
Greetings and distance
• When meeting on the street, people usually greet each other with a wave of the hand (without physical contact).
• A handshake is used in more formal settings (regardless of whether the other person is a man or a woman).
• Physical contact (e.g. a hug) is common among young people and in informal communication.
• Kissing on the cheek is not common in Estonia.
Estonians like to keep some space around them and invading this space may make people feel uncomfortable, and they may take a step back to maintain their personal space.
Estonians value their privacy, avoid asking personal questions if you are meeting for the first time.
Eye contact
• Estonians consider eye contact very important in communication, as it shows that you are interested in the other person and that they have your attention.
• If you avoid eye contact, people may think you have something to hide or that you are bored or not interested in the conversation.
• Always make eye contact, but ensure it is not too intense, or it may be interpreted as overbearing.
Conversation habits
• It is important to be specific in conversations. Taking a long time to get to the point is considered a waste of time.
• Estonians do not generally talk with their hands.
• People are rather informal when they communicate with their colleagues, calling them by their first name irrespective of their age or position.
• When addressing an official or service staff, it is advisable to use the formal “teie”, which is also appropriate and polite when speaking to older people or meeting someone for the first time.
• However, using the less formal “sina” is not disrespectful.
Refusal
Estonians are usually direct and say what they think, which is why they are also direct in refusal and say ‘no’ immediately if they feel they cannot do you a favour.
‘No’ usually means ‘no’, and there is little point trying to make people change their mind – they see it as applying pressure, which may have negative consequences.
This means that you too should be direct. It takes some getting used to but is not impossible. 129
If you are invited to join an event and you already know you won’t be able to attend, you should say straight away that you can’t attend. Promising and then cancelling in the last minute is considered very impolite, while saying the truth would be appreciated as this would avoid cancelling in the last moment.
Visiting
• Home is important to Estonians, which means that people do not often invite guests over, unless you are a family member or a close friend.
• Visiting someone without asking or telling them in advance is generally considered impolite.
• It is polite to bring something for the host when you visit them.
• Both men and women who are mutual friends may invite each other over.
• Guests do not generally help themselves to food or drinks until the host offers.
• If someone has invited you over and you want to bring a friend, make sure you ask beforehand whether this is OK.
Gifts
• Estonians celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, marriage, graduation and often also when people move into a new home.
• If you have been invited to a party, take a gift for the host (unless it says on the invitation that you do not need to bring one).
• The gift should be something small – flowers, chocolates, wine, etc.
• You should not give gifts or agree to give to officials or other service providers (e.g. doctors) as expressions of gratitude – this could be deemed bribery and be subject to punishment.
Taking responsibility
• Taking responsibility for your actions is important in Estonian society.
• You make your own decisions, so you are responsible for the consequences.
• Parents are responsible for the actions of their children until they turn 18 –but after this they must take responsibility for their own actions.
• Society expects you to be independent and show initiative.
• Expecting too much and being dependent on the state and other service providers is not a long-term solution but restricts your independence and your ability to cope.
• Being a good member of society means that you abide by the law, follow standards of conducts, earn your own money, pay taxes and contribute to society in other ways.
Time
Time is very important to Estonians, being late is considered impolite.
In general:
• Estonians are punctual and disapprove of being late;
• if you have agreed to attend a job interview, made an appointment with a doctor, any other agency or need to attend a meeting with people you do not know very well, make sure you arrive on time or even early; and
• if you cannot avoid being late and you know you will be in advance, make sure you call and let the other person or people know.
If you are late for meetings you may not be accepted and not receive the services which you requested.
13.2. RELIGION
In many societies, religion has a very important role. In Estonia, less than a third of the population define themselves as believers. The largest religious groups are Lutheran and Eastern Orthodox. There are also a number of smaller Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, Muslim and Buddhist groups. Although the number of believers is low, there is a freedom of religion in Estonia and everyone is able to follow their own practices. When communicating with Estonians, it is good to know that the majority of population is non-religious, but religion as such is not a taboo.
13.3. LEISURE ACTIVITIES
Free time is important to Estonians. Newspapers and local papers have details about events taking place. Local events can be also advertised on the website or social media channels of your town or municipality.
Theatre and Cinema
In your free time, you can go to the theatre or the cinema. In Estonia, the
films are not dubbed (unless cartoons for children) and have the original soundtrack with subtitles in Estonian and Russian. Also, some theatre plays might have the subtitles in English and Russian. The theatres are available in bigger towns, and tickets should be bought in advance. Estonians value going to theatre and thus tickets are often sold out.
Events
You can find events of your interest on visitestonia.com/en or check the webpage/ facebook page of your local municipality. Some municipalities have gathered under section “kultuuriaken”. You can try to browse from the internet.
Outdoors
In Estonia people value the time spent outdoors. Look out for nature tracks near you or via www.loodusegakoos.ee. Don’t forget to dress according to the climate.
13.4. LIBRARY
The library can also be a good place to spend time. If you have a library card, you can borrow books, DVDs, and CDs from the library. In addition, most libraries offer free internet access. If you do not have access to a computer at home or do not use Mobile-ID or Smart-ID on your phone, you can use a computer at the library to access e-services with your physical residence permit card.
Libraries also often organize interesting events that you do not need to be a registered reader of that library to attend. Among other things, libraries organize language cafés, which you can participate in if you have at least A2 level language skills.
Also, in 2023, a virtual platform was launched that allows you to borrow books with delivery from 38 libraries in Estonia, as well as read electronic publications: www. mirko.ee.
Estonians overall like to follow what is happening in the country and the world. Following local news gives you better understanding what is happening, but also more subjects to talk about.
The three most popular Estonian websites for reading the local news are ERR, Delfi and Postimees.
ERR news page is funded by the state and it provides news in Estonian, English and Russian languages. To read ERR news, go to err.ee, news.err.ee or rus.err.ee. On the page of ERR, you can also access the Estonian national TV.
Delfi and Postimees are privately-owned. Delfi can be read in Estonian (delfi.ee) or Russian (rus.delfi.ee). Postimees is available in Estonian (postimees.ee), in English (news.postimees.ee) and in Russian (rus.postimees.ee).
For online news you can also use the web-based translators as outlined in chapter 2.
USEFUL VOCABULARY
i
Vestlus
Külastamine
Kingitus
Conversation
Visiting
Gift
Vabandust, ma jään hiljaks. Sorry, I will be late.
Söök
Religioon/ Usk
Vabaajategevus
Hobi
Teater
Kino
Raamatukogu
Food
Religion
Leisure activities
Hobby
Theatre
Cinema
Library
NOTES
14. CULTURAL ADAPTATION
Living in an unfamiliar country is not always easy. Life in Estonia may be quite a challenge, not just because of the weather, but due to the significant differences in culture and values.
Adapting is easier for those who have encountered European cultures before, but people usually have a limited understanding of what lies ahead.
At first, you may be interested in the new culture and find it exciting, but soon realize that your new situation is not living up to your expectations. This usually evokes a range of emotions, including depression and reluctance, because your knowledge of the new culture is inadequate, and you cannot understand the way people behave.
This phase is known as ‘culture shock’ and is experienced to various degrees by most people who need to adapt to a new culture, even if you think you know the culture. It is highly likely that you will experience some element of culture shock, but don’t worry, below we list some tips on how to cope with it.
14.1. HOW TO COPE WITH CULTURE SHOCK
• Learn about local rules and traditions and do your best to find friends and acquaintances.
• Be an active member of society – find something to do, e.g. a hobby.
• Find local friends (e.g. visit the local library, culture events, language cafes etc.).
• Try to find a job as quickly as possible if you have the right to work.
• Attend the Estonian language courses.
• If you have children who go to day care or school, try to attend events involving parents and mingle with other parents.
• Try voluntary work/service – it is an excellent opportunity to understand Estonians and their work culture, and it is ‘added value’ on your CV.
Remember that culture shock does not last forever, and you will start to feel comfortable in both your old and new cultures if you work on it. You do not need to abandon your ethnic or cultural identity – you will simply be acquiring an additional one. See also chapter 8.10 for some tips on how you can make yourself feel better.
i USEFUL VOCABULARY
Kultuurišokk
Kultuurierinevus
Cultural shock
Cultural difference
Kohanemine Adaptation
Toetus Support
Abi Help
Intergratsioon Integration
NOTES
What
Information, advice and guidelines on living in Estonia
Service provider Contact
• Support person (for first few months in Estonia)
• Sotsiaalkindlustusamet
• Social worker at the municipality
• Estonian Refugee Council (Eesti Pagulasabi)
• Adaptation programme „Settle in Estonia“
• Information and counselling centers
• Integratsiooni Sihtasutus
Get involved in local culture clubs and sport clubs
Information regarding your residence permit
Extend temporary residence permit, apply for long-term residence permit and citizenship
• International House Tartu
• Estonishing Life
• Eesti Pagulasabi
• Asylum counsellors
www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee info@sotsiaalkindlustusamet. ee
612 1360
www.pagulasabi.ee info@pagulasabi.ee
www.settleinestonia.ee
www.integratsioon.ee info@integratsioon.ee
800 9999
www.internationalhouse.ee
• Migration advisors of Police and Border Guard Board asylum.counsel@counsel.ee www.politsei.ee/en/migrationconsultants migrationadvice@politsei.ee
• Estonian Police and Border Guard Board www.politsei.ee ppa@politsei.ee 1247
What
Free legal aid
Service provider Contact
• Daily legal matters (e.g. household contracts, work contracts, loans/ debts etc)
• Eesti Õigusbüroo OÜ
• Residence permit matters
• Estonian Human Rights Centre (MTÜ Inimõiguste Keskus)
• Work related matters
• Sotsiaalkindlustusamet
• Tööinspektsioon
• Equal treatment matters
• Gender and Equality and Equal Treatment Commissioner
• Chancellor of Justice (Õiguskantsler)
www.juristaitab.ee
hugo@hugo.legal
6 880 400
www.humanrights.ee
info@humanrights.ee 644 5148
www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee
660 7320 www.ti.ee/en
640 6000
www.volinik.ee info@volinik.ee 53525002
www.oiguskantsler.ee info@oiguskantsler.ee 693 8404
Estonian language
• Adaptation programme "Settle in Estonia" A1-B1 level
• Eesti Töötukassa
• Eesti keele maja/ Integratsiooni sihtasutus
• Estonian language cafes
• Estonian language studies consultations
www.settleinestonia.ee info@settleinestonia.ee www.tootukassa.ee
777 3000
www.integratsioon.ee info@integratsioon.ee
800 9999
Help with finding a job
Education
• Eesti Töötukassa www.tootukassa.ee
777 3000
• Educational institution Contact the local municipality or school or kindergarten in order enroll yourself or your child.
What Service provider Contact
Monetary support
Medical help
Psychological support
Support if you have experienced domestic violence
• Subsistence benefit, emergency social assistance
• Local municipality
• Unemployment benefit, unemployment insurance benefit
• Eesti Töötukassa
• Birth allowance, child allowance, childcare allowance, state pension
• Sotsiaalkindlustusamet
• Family doctor /primary reference point in case of health concerns)
• Specialist doctors (orthopedist, gynecologist, etc.)
• Family doctor
• Psychologist
• Police
• Psychologist
• Child Helpline
• Victim support crisis hotline
Contact the local municipality
www.tootukassa.ee
777 3000
www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee
info@sotsiaalkindlustusamet. ee
612 1360
Contact your family doctor or register for an appointment with a specialist doctor
Family doctors’ advisory line 1220
www.terviseamet.ee
Contact your family doctor or register for an appointment with a psychologist.
Phone: 112
Register for an appointment with a psychologist
116 111
116 006
