Estonian language learning
We invite all newly arrived immigrants to learn Estonian. For this purpose, we provide a range of free options: Estonian language courses, activities that support language learning, and independent language learning.
Participation in Estonian language courses is mandatory or recommended, depending on the legal status of the newly arrived immigrant. The use of other language learning opportunities is recommended for all newly arrived immigrants.
When selecting language learning opportunities, please keep in mind that these opportunities can be used within five years after receiving the first residence permit or the temporary right of residence of a citizen of the European Union.
Detailed information on the Estonian language courses offered is available in the self-service environment of the national adaptation programme Settle in Estonia, where you can also sign up for the courses. All information on activities that support language learning will be published and sign-up will be open in our other self-service environment.
Estonian language courses for newly arrived immigrants
We organise Estonian language courses in language schools depending on the legal status of the newly arrived immigrant:
- newly arrived immigrants living in Estonia on the basis of a temporary residence permit are recommended to learn Estonian at level A1, A2, or B1;
- newly arrived immigrants living in Estonia as beneficiaries of temporary protection are obliged to learn Estonian at level A1 and recommended to continue learning at levels A2 and B1;
- newly arrived immigrants living in Estonia as beneficiaries of international protection are obliged to learn Estonian at level A1, A2, and B1.
Learning volume
Estonian language courses consist of a total of 500 academic hours of supervised study and an additional 180 academic hours of independent study (see the notice on this subject). The learning volume depends on the language level (A1, A2, B1) and the programme providing the learning opportunity – level A1 courses are 100 academic hours, level A2 courses are 150 academic hours, and level B1 courses are 250 academic hours.
Participation
Learners can take courses in different regions of Estonia or online and choose a suitable course based on the status, language level, time, and location.
Registration
You can register for Estonian language courses once you have received a notification letter from the Police and Border Guard Board about the possibility to participate in the adaptation programme and once you have obtained an identity document.
To use the self-service environment, you need to create an account using an ID card, Smart-ID, or Mobile ID. When you log in, you will see information on your personal page about the Estonian language courses and trainings you can participate in based on your legal status. You can choose the course that suits you best and sign up for it. Once you have registered, you can get detailed information from the provider of the course.
For additional information, please send an email to: info@settleinestonia.ee
