At the Integration Foundation’s integration awards, the title of Spark of the Year was bestowed upon Einike Sooväli – a woman who, through her heartfelt work, has ignited the flame of integration in many people across Estonia. A significant part of the integration programmes developed at the Estonian Open Air Museum under her leadership is aimed at supporting the adaptation of newly arrived immigrants, helping new residents to better understand Estonian society, language, and culture.

Einike’s work is based on the conviction that the adaptation of newcomers begins with understanding how Estonian society has developed and why the people here behave the way they do. The Estonian Open Air Museum offers a unique environment for this. There, you can learn about Estonian history, everyday life, and customs in a way that is not merely theoretical, but based on direct experience and interaction.

A window into the souls of Estonians

Einike emphasises that it is precisely the knowledge of the historical background that helps newly arrived immigrants understand the everyday communication patterns and attitudes characteristic of Estonians, which may seem incomprehensible or even standoffish to those coming from elsewhere.

‘As our exhibition is very large and includes nearly a hundred houses from different eras, we can recount Estonian history from its beginnings to the present day. And not just talk about it, but also show it. This gives newly arrived immigrants a very strong start, because they begin to understand why Estonians are the way they are: why we don’t smile much, why we are cautious towards strangers at first, and why our relationship with religion is not a very close one,’ she explains.

What’s more, all activities take place in Estonian – with more or less body language – which means that language learning goes hand in hand with acquiring new knowledge.

Stepping out of your comfort zone

According to Einike, one of the most difficult challenges in helping newly arrived immigrants adapt is reaching those who do not consider learning the language and culture necessary and consciously avoid doing so.

Often, this attitude stems from a previous negative experience: the person tried to learn the language but did not see immediate results. ‘Estonian is difficult. Perhaps the course or teacher was not quite right, and people simply gave up. After all, you can actually get by in Estonia without learning the language: if you know Russian or English, you will be fine in everyday life.’

However, Einike urges all new Estonian residents to remember that a real change in a person’s quality of life occurs when they decide to truly contribute to society and begin to understand the Estonian language. ‘Believe me – a whole new world will open up. Life in Estonia is not as boring as it may seem when you spend it sitting at home. There are so many opportunities to do something fun.’

Life is short – welcome everything that is given to you!

Einike knows from her own experience how eye-opening it is to learn about local life in depth when moving to a new country.

‘When you move to another country, take in everything it has to offer. Life is short – no matter which country you end up in, try to gain as much new knowledge and as many new skills as possible. It will enrich you so much and give you invaluable experiences for the rest of your life,’ is her message to those coming from abroad.

Einike believes that it is particularly important for passive learners not to start their adaptation process with difficult language courses. It is much easier and more natural to start by learning about the culture: gradually start watching Estonian-language programmes and listening to the radio, visit language cafés, or participate in cooking and handicraft groups, for example, which also include Estonian members.

‘This way, the language begins to stick, and that way, it becomes easier to start learning it more consciously. First contacts and friends are made. You just have to start somewhere – and that first step does not have to be a giant leap,’ is her advice.

Partners of the Integration Foundation work hard every day to ensure that newly arrived immigrants living in Estonia receive the support they need and feel at home here. In this series of stories, we give them a voice to talk about the joys, challenges, and lessons learned in their work. This time, Janika Hango, CEO of the Tartu Welcome Centre, shares her thoughts and introduces the activities of the centre.

‘If this club met up every day, I would be here every day!’ said one participant at the weekly integration club organised by the Tartu Welcome Centre. This simple, heartfelt statement was the greatest recognition for the centre’s employees, reaffirming that this is a place where new Estonians feel at home.

The Tartu Welcome Centre was established in 2019 in cooperation between the City of Tartu, the University of Tartu, and the Estonian University of Life Sciences. The centre aims to support foreigners during their first weeks and months in Tartu, as well as in their subsequent adaptation and integration. Over the years, the centre has become more than just a place for practical arrangements. It has become a place of support where people can come to share their joys, as well.

‘Our team is united by our belief in what we do. We are fans and patriots of Estonia – we care about how our society functions and what its future will be like. In our work, this does not only mean providing information, but also explaining to newcomers the rules, values, and customs that apply in Estonia in a way that can be understood, followed, and comprehended,’ says Janika Hango, CEO of the Tartu Welcome Centre and Head of Adaptation and Integration for the City of Tartu, explaining the centre’s working principles. ‘We are helping to build a bridge between new people and the local way of life.’

A hub where different worlds meet

In its more than six years of operation, the Tartu Welcome Centre has had contact with people from more than a hundred countries. There are international students, employees, entrepreneurs, family members, and, in recent years, thousands of war refugees, primarily from Ukraine. Questions range from personal identification codes and registration of residence to finding a family physician, children’s education, and opportunities to learn Estonian.

To show where all of these people come from, there is a large world map on the wall of the centre. Red pins indicate the clients’ countries of origin. When a new country is identified, the person themselves can put the pin on the map, if possible.

‘You can get help here’

‘People are often confused about where to start. We help them create clarity and order: where to start, where to go, what to ask. We meet them halfway – sometimes literally, by getting up from our chairs and going to the door when they arrive. This shows that we are there for them,’ Janika points out a small but important nuance.

She recalls that a young woman from India who needed an Estonian personal identification code started crying as soon as she arrived at the centre. She had already been sent from one place to another several times, and the tension caused by helplessness was expressed in tears. ‘We calmed her down, helped her fill out the application, and she received her personal identification code. A week later, she returned with a smile on her face and a fellow Indian in tow, saying, “You can get help here.”’

There are also those special standout moments when clients who have received support from the centre come back later just to share their joy: to show off their puppy or new family member, or to talk about their small but important victory, such as successfully renewing their residence permit in Estonian for the first time.

A personal approach, not just a number

Alongside the joys, everyday work unfortunately also brings along challenges. ‘Sometimes, it is necessary to explain to various parties why our work is important,’ Janika notes.

She emphasises that the provision of service at the centre does not end when the visitor’s question has been answered or a document processed. Clients are assisted in considering what to do next, where to go, and whom to contact. ‘This kind of human, supportive, and consistent contact is exactly what encourages people to return. This is a mindset that we ourselves follow and that should be systematically supported and disseminated,’ she adds.

‘Over the course of six years of operation, more than 12,000 people have visited our centre – a remarkable number, especially considering that we are personally committed to each visitor and our team consists of only three people.’

Cooperation creates opportunities

In addition to its founding members, the daily work of the Tartu Welcome Centre is also supported by cooperation partners. The city of Tartu is a contractual partner of the Association of Estonian Cities and Municipalities within the framework of the EU-supported activity ‘Support for local governments in providing integration, including adaptation services’. Thanks to this project, the centre can offer people with a migrant background assistance in obtaining a personal identification code or registering their place of residence, and provide advice on everyday matters.

In cooperation with the Police and Border Guard Board, seminars for migration advisers are held once a month. In addition, Estonian language courses and adaptation seminars as well as language and integration clubs commissioned by the Integration Foundation are organised at the centre.

‘We are consciously moving towards a one-stop-shop solution – so that people have one secure place to turn to and obtain the necessary information,’ says Janika, highlighting the operating principle based on the needs of new arrivals. Our professional ‘superpower’ is combining empathy and systematic thinking. We do not focus solely on a to-do list. We also think about the things that people do not yet know how to ask, but that are really important to them – we provide the next piece of information before people are able to ask for it themselves.’

The article appeared in the newsletter of cooperation partners in the field of adaptation.

It’s 3 AM. Athens is still celebrating New Year’s Eve when, in the early hours of 1 January 2020, Umut Can Ağar— a Turkish-born professional—arrives home after a night spent with friends. He unlocks the door, grabs his suitcase, and heads to the airport. Ahead of him, like a blank page, lies the beginning of a new chapter: moving to Estonia. He knows only where he will start working in a few days’ time. Everything else is yet to be discovered.

Now, six years have passed since Umut turned that blank page and moved to Tallinn. Before relocating to Estonia, he had been living and working in Greece. “Things had become monotonous,” he recalls. “I wanted to challenge myself. I wanted to grow. I was looking for opportunities — developing countries, fast-paced countries.”

At first, his eyes were set toward the North “I was just looking at the Nordics, to be honest. And I was like: ‘Okay, Sweden, Finland… Estonia? What’s that?’”

The answer turned out to be far more compelling than he expected. As Umut began researching the country, he discovered a small Baltic state rapidly gaining global attention for its startup ecosystem. The success stories of Wise, Bolt, and other fast-growing tech companies suggested that Estonia—despite its size—could offer room to grow, both professionally and personally.

Looking back, Umut laughs that his decision was almost an experiment in contrast. “In Greece, I had a really lively social life. The weather was amazing. The food was great,” he says. “And I asked myself: ‘Where is the country where they don’t have this?’”

A Leap into the Unknown

An explorer by nature, Umut holds a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering and brings with him a strong background in voluntary work. Over the years, he had worked as an Erasmus+ project coordinator and with several NGOs in Turkey and Greece. New environments and unfamiliar cultures were not something he feared—they were something he actively sought out.

While still living in Athens, he began applying for jobs in Estonia and eventually received an offer. “My first job here was as a customer support agent,” he says. What followed was a period of rapid growth. “I had the opportunity and I worked to be a Team Lead, then Operations Lead, Site Lead, Head of a Department, and so on.”

From the Loud South to the Quiet North

Umut’s first impression of Estonia was far from a fairy tale. It was January, and the weather was unforgiving. “I really don’t like that type of cold where it’s not properly cold but slushy,” he says. “Sometimes it snows, then it melts. It’s not the nicest weather. And I arrived right in the middle of that.”

But instead of withdrawing, Umut did what felt most natural to him: he put himself out there. During his first year, he actively sought opportunities to meet people and understand the country. “I joined every event I could find: pub crawls, free walking tours—anything you could imagine.”

What surprised him most was the quiet. Compared to Turkey or Greece, Tallinn felt almost surreal. “Sometimes the streets were completely empty,” he says. “I don’t remember ever seeing empty streets before in my life.”

He recalls one evening from his first year in Estonia. He had gone to a small café hosting a live band presenting their new album—with free entry. In Greece, he says, such an event would have meant crowds spilling into the street. “But there were only three tables with people. One was mine. Another had three people. The third had a few people who clearly knew the band personally. I was blown away. There’s a free concert and no crowds? That didn’t make any sense.”

Years later, Umut admits Estonia has changed him. “Now I’m more Estonian,” he says, laughing. “I see a concert and I think: ‘It starts at nine o’clock. It’s in the Old Town. It’s minus six degrees outside. I have work tomorrow…’ I start finding reasons not to go. This is me now.”

Knowing Where and How to Ask

One of the biggest turning points in Umut’s adaptation came through the Settle in Estonia programme and the networks that followed. He completed the A1 Estonian language course and nearly finished A2, but the real impact went beyond language learning.

“At one event, I met someone from the Settle in Estonia team,” he says. “They told me there is this website that I can go and check for further information. From that website I found other websites. There I found different opportunities, different consultations, different everything. It was an eye-opener.”

Umut admits that his Estonian language skills are still not where he would like them to be—enough to order coffee, but not for deeper conversations. However, moving through the language-learning system connected him with professional networks and public services. He describes, for example, particularly positive experiences with the Police and Border Guard Board regarding residence matters, and with the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund while getting career consultations. He also received helpful guidance when exploring the process of founding an NGO.

“They were all really helpful. They explained everything, answered all my questions, and always replied to my emails. Once I got into that professional network, I received exactly the support I needed.”

The key, he says, is knowing how to ask. “In Estonia, people are helpful, but you really need to be specific. If you know what to ask or who to ask, you get amazing support. But if you’re like: ‘Hey, I would like to learn more about this,’ they will just give you a Google link.”

Living Like a True Estonian

For a long time, Umut managed comfortably in English—as many immigrants do. In Estonia, especially among younger generations, this is rarely a barrier. But over time, he realised that English is enough to survive, but not to fully belong.

“If you really want to get the best out of this country, you need to learn the language,” he says. “Not because you need it to do your taxes—everything is digital and easy—but to actually understand the culture and everyday life. Otherwise, it’s just work and home. You’ll get by, but you’ll miss out on a lot.”

Some things that once seemed strange have now become his favourite parts of life in Estonia. Mushroom picking, for example, has turned almost into a ritual. “I love nature and forests,” he says. “It’s therapeutic. You forget your phone, your worries, everything. Especially in September and in October after the rain, you go into the forest and it’s a different climate. The quietness of nature is unbelievable. You just walk and you hear your crunching steps. That’s so beautiful.”

And then there is the sauna.

Umut’s first sauna experience took place deep in the forest, while visiting a ranger during a friend’s documentary project. “There was a wooden house in the middle of nowhere. We ate deer and boar meat. Then the ranger prepared the sauna,” he recalls.

“You sit in an 80–90-degree sauna for ten minutes, then step out into the snow, jump into an icy lake, and look up at a clear, star-filled sky. It felt like a movie scene—incredibly euphoric.”

Looking Ahead

Today, Umut sees his future in Estonia—at least for the coming years. “Professionally, my experience has been really good,” he says. “If you’re curious and proactive, there are opportunities. But if you come here and wait—sorry, no one will come to you.”

Ideally, he hopes to find a role that allows him to stay based in Estonia while travelling regularly—combining movement with the stability he has built in Tallinn.

Umut’s Advice for Starting Fresh in Estonia

1. Be proactive—opportunities don’t always come to you

Reach out, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to contact people directly. Even if you feel unsure or slightly out of place, a simple email or message can open unexpected doors.

2. Be patient and manage your expectations

Things don’t always move at your preferred pace, whether it’s a doctor’s appointment or a reply from someone you’ve contacted. In Estonia, people tend to plan ahead and respect each other’s time. If one option doesn’t work for you, look for another—and don’t let a delay discourage you.

3. Arrive with an open mind and stay curious

Let go of expectations and discover Estonia as it is. Explore beyond the bigger cities, accept the climate and local habits, and allow yourself time to adjust. What feels uncomfortable at first often becomes part of the charm.

4. Always take your vitamin D

Vitamin D (and a hot sauna) help you get through the cold, dark winters.

The Settle in Estonia Programme is a free educational programme provided by the Estonian state which is intended to help the foreigners who have arrived in Estonia to adapt and become accustomed to local life more easily. We offer courses for people who have come to live or study in Estonia and have lived here for less than 5 years. For example, war refugees to whom Estonia offers international or temporary protection, as well as people who have come to Estonia to work or do business here or relocate with their family member. The adaptation program The Settle in Estonia Programme is free for participants. We offer language training and other courses to help you cope with everyday life in Estonia. Read more and register: https://integratsioon.ee/en/kohanemine. The adaptation programme is co-funded by the European Union and the state budget.

If you have recently moved to Estonia, life here may seem like a complex puzzle at first. Why aren’t people smiling or striking up conversations on the street? How can you find friends in an environment that seems very closed off at first glance? How on Earth can one become fluent in Estonian? You can find answers to these questions in an unexpected place – the Estonian Open Air Museum – when you start exploring Estonian history and local customs.

The Estonian Open Air Museum in Tallinn is not just a collection of old buildings, but rather a kind of window into the minds of the Estonian people. In addition to being open to both local Estonians and tourists visiting the country, the museum also offers activities for those who have recently moved here. The aim of such programmes is to introduce the culture and history of our small nation and offer a different approach to learning its language.

According to Einike Sooväli, project manager of the museum’s integration and social programmes, the Estonian Open Air Museum is the ideal place for new residents to start, as it allows them to understand Estonian society as a whole – through their eyes, ears, and personal experience.

Why don’t Estonians smile?

Einike Sooväli explains that the things that can be seen and experienced in the museum help to unravel the background to the Estonian character. ‘As our exhibition is very large and includes nearly a hundred houses from different eras, we can recount Estonian history from its beginnings to the present day. And not just talk about it, but also show it,’ she says.

‘This gives newly arrived immigrants a very strong start, because they begin to understand why Estonians are the way they are: why we don’t smile much, why we are cautious towards strangers at first, and why our relationship with religion is not a very close one. For example, we talk about how Estonians believe above all in work and personal responsibility, and how our experience of living under foreign rule for so long has taught us to be cautious and rather suspicious of anything new.’

Once you understand that Estonian reticence is not rudeness, but a historical legacy, it becomes easier to communicate and make new contacts.

Culture club: Estonian-speaking friends from all over the world

One of the main language and culture programmes for newly arrived immigrants at the Estonian Open Air Museum is the culture club, which is aimed at people whose Estonian language skills are at least at level B2.

The culture club is a group that meets for three hours once a week. They discuss a new topic each time – from Estonian history and customs to everyday life. The group is put together in cooperation with the Integration Foundation and includes people of different nationalities.

‘The more different nationalities there are in the group, the more exciting it is for us and for those who come here – everyone has their own history and experiences, after all,’ notes Sooväli, adding that the current group includes people from Nigeria, Hungary, Egypt, and Ukraine, for example.

The group of the culture club is small by design – the group can accommodate up to 20 participants. This allows everyone to actively participate and creates an atmosphere of trust. Once the group is formed, it will remain the same for the entire programme. New participants can apply during the following rounds.

These programmes are expected to continue in 2026, and groups designed for complete beginners learning Estonian will also be added. To join the programme, keep an eye on the self-service portal. of the Integration Foundation: https://pesa.integratsioon.ee/login.

Learning without exam stress

For many people, learning Estonian through museum visits is often easier and more effective than memorising words in a classroom, as it encourages them to put their Estonian skills into practice immediately.

The language of communication in such programmes is always Estonian. ‘As we have people from very different cultural and linguistic backgrounds, it is natural that our common language is none other than Estonian,’ notes Sooväli. ‘Depending on the language level of the participants in the group, I can use body language to assist in speaking and, if necessary, use the simplest words and expressions possible. The museum is a great place to learn a language because participants can see the things and places we are talking about.’

Einike Sooväli emphasises that when learning a language, it is not important to speak flawlessly – it is simply important to speak. ‘I always tell participants that you are allowed to make mistakes – we accept all mistakes. This makes people communicate more freely. It also helps to relieve tension that there is no exam at the end of the programme, but rather pure joy from acquiring new knowledge.’

However, she emphasises that once you join the programme, it is important to attend meetings regularly. Although there is no exam at the end, those who have actively participated will receive a diploma and a written assessment. ‘Completing this course is a very good experience to include in your CV. Potential employers can get an idea of whether the person is diligent and how fluent they are in Estonian based on this assessment. Completing a programme like this is a huge bonus, even a mark of quality,’ emphasises Sooväli.

New experiences through volunteering

In addition to participating in programmes, newly arrived immigrants can also volunteer at the Estonian Open Air Museum. The museum has a large network of volunteers, and help is welcome both at events in various tasks and in everyday maintenance work, such as stacking wood or raking leaves.

‘We are increasingly seeing people from abroad volunteering. Probably because many of them do not yet have families here and therefore have more free time and the desire to learn something new. Volunteering provides excellent opportunities for this. It is also a great way to make new contacts among other foreigners and locals,’ Einike Sooväli notes.

‘And we don’t just offer work to our volunteers, but also entertainment, such as inviting them to a smoke sauna. If you haven’t been here yet, please do! We look forward to seeing you.’

Three recommendations for people who have recently moved to Estonia

1. Start small.

Learn at least two words in Estonian – ‘tere’ (hello) and ‘aitäh’ (thank you). As there are so few Estonians and Estonian speakers in the world, this is one of the greatest compliments a foreigner can give to Estonians.

2. Be patient.

Estonians tend to take things slow, and it takes time to win their hearts. Don’t rush or be pushy, but try to make friends with Estonians gradually. When you get close to an Estonian, you will discover a very loyal and supportive friend beneath the cold exterior.

3. Don’t stay at home waiting.

If you actively participate in social life, a whole new world opens up for you. There are many opportunities to do something enjoyable in Estonia. Life is short, so absorb as much knowledge and as many skills as possible from your new country. It will make you much richer and give you invaluable experiences for life.

 The article was published in a newsletter intended for the target audience. You can subscribe to the newsletter here.

Have you just moved to Estonia? Do you feel like there is a lot of information but very little time? The Settle in Estonia adaptation programme is a free educational programme, through which the Estonian state helps newly arrived immigrants adapt to life here more quickly – from practical everyday activities to understanding the Estonian language and society. The programme is organised and developed by the Integration Foundation.

Here, you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions.

What is the adaptation programme?

The Settle in Estonia adaptation programme is a comprehensive programme consisting of several training courses, which provides:

• an overview of living conditions in Estonia
• answers to the most common questions asked by newly arrived immigrants
• the opportunity to learn Estonian at a basic level and beyond (A1, A2, B1)

The types of training you are allowed or obliged to take part in depends on your legal status in Estonia.

Who can take part in the adaptation programme?

You are eligible to participate in the programme if

• you have been granted a temporary residence permit – you have come here to work, study, engage in business, or live with a family member
• you have been granted a temporary residence permit on the basis of temporary protection
• you have been granted a temporary residence permit on the basis of international protection
• you are a citizen of the European Union who has been granted temporary right of residence
• you are the family member of a citizen of the European Union who has been granted temporary right of residence

You can participate in the programme within up to five years after obtaining your initial residence permit or EU citizen’s right of residence.

Who is required to participate?

• The programme is mandatory for persons who have been granted temporary or international protection.
• It is recommended but voluntary for EU citizens with temporary right of residence and their family members, as well as persons who have obtained a residence permit under the regular migration procedure (i.e. those who have come to Estonia to work, study, engage in business, or join a family member).

What can you learn in the modules of the adaptation programme?

The content of the programme depends on your legal status in Estonia.

If you have been granted temporary protection, you will need to complete the following as part of the adaptation programme:

• the basic adaptation training module (overview of Estonia and its society)
• an Estonian language course at level A1; if you wish, you can also take Estonian language courses at levels A2 and B1

If you have been granted international protection, you will need to complete the following as part of the adaptation programme:

• the basic adaptation training module (overview of Estonia and its society)
• Estonian language courses at levels A1, A2, and B1

If you have come here to work, study, engage in business, join a family member, or if you are a citizen of the European Union, you can choose from the following options as part of the adaptation programme:

• various thematic modules of adaptation trainings: basic module, work, learning, research, entrepreneurship, family
• Estonian language courses at levels A1, A2 and/or B1

What is the basic module of the adaptation programme?

The basic module of the adaptation training is the very first step in the Settle in Estonia adaptation programme. It is intended for all foreigners who have moved to Estonia and will help you adapt here more quickly and confidently. The basic module provides a clear and practical overview of how to handle everyday life in Estonia and how to understand the local society and culture.

Please note: training is mandatory for beneficiaries of international and temporary protection.

Depending on your legal status, the basic module lasts for either 1 day (8 academic hours) or 4 days (36 academic hours).

What will we talk about during the training?

• What your legal status in Estonia is and what it means in everyday life
• How the Estonian state and society function
• What the most important authorities are and when you should contact them
• How and in which situations an ID card and residence permit card can be used
• Which e-services are offered in Estonia and how they make life easier
• How healthcare works and where to get help in an emergency
• What Estonians’ communication habits and customs are
• What to do in your free time and how to find hobbies
• Which services and support options are available to foreigners
• How to participate in social and community life if you wish to do so

How to participate in the programme?

Registering for adaptation training and Estonian language courses is easy:

1. Go to the website www.settleinestonia.ee/login.
2. Create an account and log in with an ID card, Mobile-ID, or Smart-ID.
3. On your personal account, you can see the courses and training programmes that are currently available to you and open for registration.
4. If there is no suitable training available, please be patient – new groups for Estonian language courses and adaptation trainings are opened gradually. Keep an eye on the website of the Integration Foundation and the Settle in Estonia Facebook page, where new training groups will be announced.

What does taking part in an adaptation programme give me?

• Practical knowledge for coping in Estonia: opening a bank account, finding a job, using digital services
• An overview of Estonian society: culture and traditions, education, healthcare, rights and responsibilities
• Proficiency in Estonian, which is useful in everyday life and at work
• New contacts – meet other people who have come to Estonia and share your experiences

Where can I find additional information?

• Information about the adaptation programme: website of the Integration Foundation
• Registration for training courses: www.settleinestonia.ee/login
• Latest information and new training courses: Settle in Estonia on Facebook
• Questions: info@settleinestonia.ee

The Settle in Estonia Programme is a free educational programme provided by the Estonian state which is intended to help the foreigners who have arrived in Estonia to adapt and become accustomed to local life more easily. We offer courses for people who have come to live or study in Estonia and have lived here for less than 5 years. For example, war refugees to whom Estonia offers international or temporary protection, as well as people who have come to Estonia to work or do business here or relocate with their family member. The adaptation program The Settle in Estonia Programme is free for participants. We offer language training and other courses to help you cope with everyday life in Estonia. Read more and register: https://integratsioon.ee/en/kohanemine. The adaptation programme is co-funded by the European Union and the state budget.

Tartu Welcome Centre is launching a Tartu International Residents’ Participation Network for international residents. A small gathering where people from different countries and backgrounds can share ideas, talk about what matters in daily life, and help shape future activities and discussions for our city.

This will be the very first session, where Tartu Welcome Centre co-creates the group itself: the topics, the format, the meeting frequency and how people can get involved in the future.

Event details

• Date: 17 December
• Time: 15:00-18:30
• Location: Tartu Welcome Centre, Ülikooli 17, Tartu
• Working language: English
• Participants: up to 20 international residents (18+) living in Tartu
• Snacks & tea/coffee provided

What to expect

• A warm, welcoming atmosphere
• Small-group conversations
• Co-vision session
• A chance to share your perspective as someone living in Tartu
• Space to highlight what works well and what could be improved
• Co-creating a clear structure for next year’s participation meetings
• You don’t need any prior knowledge or preparation

Why join?

• Your experience matters.
• You can influence how the city understands and supports its international residents.
• You help decide the topics for 2026 discussions.
• You help improve the conditions for future newcomers – for people who will arrive after you and who face similar questions, needs and situations.
• You meet others who care about community, belonging, and making Tartu more inclusive.

Registration

• Please fill in the short form below by 11 December 2025.
• We ask a few simple questions to understand who is joining. Filling it up should not take more than 10 minutes.
• If more than 20 people register, we may need to make a selection or run a lottery. In that case, the additional questions help us make fair choices.
• Everyone will receive a follow-up email by 12 December 2025 with confirmation about registration.

Register here: https://forms.gle/3h89jKdnxZd2TJnk6

Feel free to share! 

If you know someone who lives in Tartu, speaks English and would be a great fit for this discussion, please feel free to forward this invitation to them. The group will benefit from diverse voices and experiences.

Questions?

Feel free to reach out: janika.hango@tartu.ee

This is your chance to help shape something meaningful from the very beginning. Your voice, your experiences, and your perspective can genuinely influence how Tartu supports its international residents.

We hope to see you there!

Partners of the Integration Foundation work hard every day to ensure that newly arrived immigrants living in Estonia receive the support they need and feel at home here. In this series of stories, we give them a voice to talk about the joys, challenges, and lessons learned in their work.

The end of the year is the right time to take a moment to reflect on the journey you have recently embarked upon. Many of you have taken your first steps in a new country this year: learning the language, discovering Estonian customs, making new friends, or gaining a better understanding of everyday life in your new homeland. I know that such a journey requires courage, patience, and an open mind. This is why I would like to first say: thank you for your efforts, interest, and trust.

2025 was also a year of significant developments for the Integration Foundation. Our goal is to provide you with clear and comprehensive support so that settling in Estonia is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Thousands of newly arrived immigrants participated in the Settle in Estonia adaptation programme during the year. Both mandatory and voluntary training courses provided insight into how the Estonian state functions and information about your rights, opportunities, and services available to you when you need them. Many of you have shared that the knowledge gained during these training sessions helped you feel more confident during your first months here – we are delighted to receive such feedback.

Language learning is equally important. This year, we opened hundreds of A1, A2, and B1 level language learning groups across Estonia and offered opportunities to study both online and on-site. Learning Estonian creates opportunities to work in your field, feel more confident in everyday situations, and participate more actively in community life. In cooperation with the excellent partner organisations of the Integration Foundation, language cafés, the Language Friends programme, and cultural activities continued, providing opportunities to practice the language in a safe environment. Studies show that those who make contact with the locals and have the courage to speak Estonian every day, even if only a little, make the best progress in adapting. That is why we support these opportunities at every turn.
I would like to thank all of you who have shared your questions and suggestions. Your insights and feedback help us improve the programme so it can support you even more. Adaptation is not just something that happens in the classroom – it is shaped by your everyday conversations, incremental progress, and every new discovery you make about Estonia.
As the year draws to a close, I wish you a peaceful holiday season and joyful encounters in 2026.

Our door is always open if you need advice and if you wish to continue your language studies, join our training courses. Together, step by step, we are creating conditions where everyone can feel welcome and cared for in Estonia.

Thank you for being with us!

Britta Saks, Head of the Adaptation Field at the Integration Foundation, shared her greeting in the Settle in Estonia newsletter, which is designed to support new migrants in their adaptation process and help them feel at home in Estonia more quickly.
The newsletter helps make adaptation easier and keeps readers informed about important information needed for everyday life in Estonia. You can subscribe to the newsletter here.

Did you know that many Estonian Christmas traditions are part of a much broader cultural heritage? Just as people from many different countries have come together in Estonia, the Christmas traditions here are also a kind of mosaic, combining local customs, international influences, and a shared desire to find a little light and warmth during the darkest time of the year.

Päkapikud (elves) – short creatures, long traditions

Children in Estonia know that from the beginning of December, elves will start appearing on windowsills – tiny helpers of Father Christmas who put little gifts or treats inside Christmas stockings.

Elves are also found in many other cultures: the Finns have tonttu, in Germany, Christmas elves are called Weihnachtswichtel, but in France they are called Père Fouettard, helpers of Père Noël.

In Estonia, päkapikud are a symbol of the entire month of December – they are mysterious, playful, and joyful characters who bring joy to children until the start of Christmas on 24 December.

Songs that resonate across borders

In December, Christmas music can be heard in many Estonian homes and churches, some of which you may already be familiar with – just in a different language. For example, the song ‘Püha öö’ (‘Silent Night’ in English) was written in Austria in 1818 and has become one of the most sung and recorded Christmas songs in the world. However, the popular Christmas song ‘Jõulud on käes’ actually originates from Ukraine, where it is called ‘Shchedryk’ – known worldwide as ‘Carol of the Bells’.

Estonian Christmas music is an exciting mix of local compositions and world-famous folk songs – French, English, German, Russian, American, and many other cultures have found a place in the hearts of the Estonian audience.

If you are looking for songs to sing or listen to with your family during Christmas in Estonia, you may want to start with the following songs:

●        ‘Tiliseb, tiliseb aisakell’ (‘Jingle Bells’ in English)

●        ‘Oh kuusepuu’ (‘O Tannenbaum’ in German)

●        ‘Me soovime rõõmsaid jõule’ (‘We Wish You A Merry Christmas’ in English)

Cookies that connect generations

An important part of Estonian Christmas culture is piparkoogid (gingerbread cookies) – spicy, lovely brown cookies that are cut into different shapes. Gingerbread cookies can be stars, hearts, animals, or Christmas trees. Making them and then decorating them with icing is fun for both children and adults alike.

But did you know that Christmas cookies are an important tradition in many other countries as well? In Germany, they are called Lebkuchen, in Sweden pepparkakor, and in the United States gingerbread. If you want to try classic recipes from Estonia and elsewhere, take a look at the recommendations in the cookie selection of Nami-Nami, for example.

‘Häid pühi!’

In Estonia, it is customary to exchange brief but heartfelt good wishes during the Christmas season. The most common Christmas greeting is ‘Häid pühi!’ (Happy Holidays!), which is used in both written and spoken communication – this universal greeting covers Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and the holiday season in general.

If you want to emphasise Christmas, you can also say ‘Häid jõule’ (Merry Christmas!), ‘Kauneid jõule’ (Wishing you a beautiful Christmas!) or ‘Rahulikku jõuluaega!’ (Wishing you a peaceful Christmas!). Around the turn of the year, greetings such as ‘Head vana aasta lõppu!’ (Wishing you a lovely end of the year!) and ‘Head uut aastat!’ (Happy New Year!) are added.

Estonians tend to be modest but sincere in their verbal communication, Christmas cards, and social media posts. When it comes to wishes, it is the tone and the moment that matter most, not the length or formality. A brief ‘Happy holidays!’ accompanied by a smile is often more meaningful than a hastily purchased gift.

Recommendations:

●        Try to recall a Christmas carol in your native language and find its Estonian equivalent.

●        Give someone a homemade gingerbread cookie.

●        Learn a new Estonian holiday greeting and say it to an Estonian acquaintance.

Happy holidays!

May the holiday season be filled with all the activities and experiences you desire!

With the support of the Integration Foundation and in cooperation with the NGO Estonian Refugee Council (Pagulasabi), a day dedicated to learning about Christmas traditions and everyday life in Estonia will take place on 11 December. The event offers newcomers and beneficiaries of international protection in the region an opportunity to discover local customs and strengthen their coping skills. The programme includes a visit to Swedbank’s interactive financial literacy centre, a marzipan workshop at Café Maiasmokk, and a guided Christmas tour of Tallinn’s Old Town with mulled wine. The event helps participants better understand both Estonian culture and practical everyday skills – which is precisely why the Integration Foundation organises such activities, supporting people’s adaptation and active participation in Estonian society. This event is part of the project “Cooperation activities to increase the social participation of third-country nationals, including beneficiaries of international protection”, co-financed by the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF.1.02.23-0005).

When Nina Paragoso got off the plane from Manila to Tallinn six years ago, she expected nothing more than a short-term work assignment. But what started as a brief stint in a distant, wintry country — one that most Filipinos can barely point to on a map — turned into an unexpected new chapter in her life. Today, Nina calls Estonia home and shares her perspective as a Filipina living in the Baltics through her insightful yet relatable TikTok account.

At the time, Nina was a PR and communication specialist in the fast-paced world of Manila’s startups. She accepted a promotion that included time at her company’s headquarters in Estonia. “I had nothing else going on in the Philippines back then, so I said: let’s try to move to a country which, at that point, all I knew was it's very depressing because it gets very cold, people are not friendly, and the food sucks,” she laughs. The original plan was to stay for six months.

Instead, Nina found a life she never expected: a new career at Bolt, one of Estonia’s tech giants, a cozy home in the small town of Rakvere with her Estonian partner and their cat Loki, and countless new memories, along with the joy of learning the Estonian language.

A Winter Welcome

Arriving in Estonia in January felt like stepping into another world. “Snow up to your knees, negative degrees,” she recalls. “I had to get all the proper clothes just to be here.”

Coming from the sunny, fast-paced streets of Manila, it was a real shock to the system. “I had seen snow before, but I had never lived in such a country where there would be minus degrees. It was very shocking at first, but also very exciting because it was a totally new experience.”

At that time, authentic Asian food was hard to come by in Estonia — something Nina hadn't expected. But it turned into a good opportunity to get familiar with Estonian cuisine. She’s even tried what many locals remember fondly from childhood: macaroni with minced meat and ketchup. And when she missed the tastes of home, she was happy to find a few Asian shops where she could buy the ingredients she needed to try to cook the dishes herself.

These days, things have changed. “Now I’ve found some really good restaurants that serve Asian food,” she says. One of her favorite recent discoveries is Nora’s Kitchen, a cozy Filipino spot in Tallinn’s Old Town. “It’s very authentic, the ladies who cook there are Filipino moms who moved here because they met their Estonian husband. So it’s very home cooking style.”

Embracing Estonian Life

Over time, Nina began to find joy in the little things — unexpected details that made everyday life in Estonia feel special. “Being able to walk everywhere is definitely one of the everyday things that I have grown to love. And free public transportation for the citizens in Tallinn as well. If you don’t want to walk, then you can just go and get a bus or a tram or a scooter.”

She also came to appreciate the calm and quiet that defines Estonian life. “If you live in the Philippines, there’s so much pollution, you get to appreciate that there’s always fresh air in Estonia.”

Compared to the constant buzz of life in Manila, Estonian towns felt peaceful and spacious. The streets were quiet, and there were noticeably fewer people around — something that struck Nina immediately. She jokes by referencing a popular observation from the COVID pandemic: “After the 6 feet distance rule was lifted, Estonians were relieved — they could finally go back to their usual 10 feet distance.”

Although she had heard that Estonians tend to be reserved, Nina eventually came to value their sincerity. “In the Philippines, people are very friendly. You can literally say hi to everyone in the street, they would give you a smile back or do small talk. Here, people don’t do that. If you smile at someone in the street, they would think you’re crazy. But at the same time, I have learned to appreciate that Estonians will just make small talk to you if they actually care about what the answer is and take time to have the conversation.”

Learning the Language

Although Nina admits she was skeptical at first, learning Estonian has turned out to be more rewarding than she expected. “In the beginning, when I first arrived here and lived in Tallinn, I thought: nah, I’m not going to learn Estonian, because they say it’s difficult, I'm staying only for a few months and in the capital you can live your everyday life without speaking it.” 

But after joining an A1 course, her attitude quickly changed. “I actually had fun learning new words. My teacher was really good — she made the classes fun. And now that I live in Rakvere, where not everyone speaks English, you kind of need to use Estonian more. I don’t think the language is as difficult as people explain it to be, but you really need to focus and take time to practice.”

Being surrounded by Estonian speakers has helped, too — she often surprises herself by how much she actually understands. She especially enjoys small everyday moments where she can use the language, like at the grocery store. “I say that I’m going to pay with a card, or that I don’t need the bag, and the cashiers would be excited about that and even ask me how long I have been learning.”

From a Temporary Stay to a Permanent Life

Although her move to Estonia began as a short-term assignment, Nina now sees her future firmly rooted here. 

That appreciation towards the country only deepened during a long road trip she and her partner took from Estonia to Portugal at the start of the Ukraine-Russia war. “We wanted to move to somewhere a bit farther away from the war and just experience something new for the both of us. But the bureaucracy, oh my God… To get all the papers just to get a rental in Portugal was a nightmare.” They visited many beautiful places — from Lithuania to Germany — but in the end, they realized what they already had. “Nothing compares to the comfort that we have felt in Estonia all these years. When we came back, we were certain that Estonia is the best.”

For those thinking of moving to Estonia, Nina has a simple but important piece of advice: “Never compare or never expect that the life you had or the things that you do in your home country would be the same here.” She believes adapting to life in Estonia starts with an open mind. “The people are completely different, but it’s not a bad thing. It’s something you just need to keep an open mind about, learn as you go.” 

Instead of focusing on what’s missing or what feels unfamiliar, she encourages newcomers to try and understand the local culture. “Not everything would be perfect in Estonia, but it has its own culture that you need to appreciate and not be ignorant about.”

The Settle in Estonia Programme is a free educational programme provided by the Estonian state which is intended to help the foreigners who have arrived in Estonia to adapt and become accustomed to local life more easily. We offer courses for people who have come to live or study in Estonia and have lived here for less than 5 years. For example, war refugees to whom Estonia offers international or temporary protection, as well as people who have come to Estonia to work or do business here or relocate with their family member. The adaptation program The Settle in Estonia Programme is free for participants. We offer language training and other courses to help you cope with everyday life in Estonia. Read more and register: https://integratsioon.ee/en/kohanemine. The adaptation programme is co-funded by the European Union and the state budget.

The newsletter is created for newcomers to provide support with adaptation and help them feel at home in Estonia more quickly. It helps make settling in easier and keeps you up to date with essential information needed for everyday life in Estonia.

Why was this newsletter created?
The Settle in Estonia newsletter was created to provide you with practical support and information — about adaptation programme courses, opportunities to learn Estonian, and services needed for daily life. We believe that open communication and cooperation are the best ways to make your adaptation in Estonia more comfortable and secure.

How have we been doing?
It’s no secret that in recent years, more newcomers have arrived in Estonia than ever before. Among them are refugees from Ukraine, people who came here to work or study, as well as families who moved here through reunification.

To make it easier for all newcomers to start a new life in Estonia, in 2023 the adaptation programme was transferred from the Ministry of Culture to the Integration Foundation. This step made it possible to focus on developing the programme and improving access to services.

In the first years, we dedicated our efforts to building a solid foundation. We expanded the scope of training, created e-learning courses, and increased opportunities for learning Estonian. For example, in 2024 nearly 7,000 people participated in the free Estonian language courses offered by the Integration Foundation — including those who came here for work or research as well as those fleeing from war zones. This work continues this year as well.

What will you find in our newsletter?

• Practical information on topics essential for life in Estonia,
   
• An overview of new opportunities to study Estonian and attend adaptation courses,
   
• Guidance and recommendations for using useful services,
   
• A calendar of upcoming events and courses.

Working towards a common goal
We know that adaptation does not happen only in a classroom or lecture. It requires a comprehensive approach, where support comes from the state, local government, and the community in which you live. We want you to feel welcomed and cared for in Estonia — because this is how a cohesive and friendly society is built.

Thank you for being with us!
We hope that this newsletter will support you in every way and encourage you to make use of the opportunities offered by the Settle in Estonia programme. If you know someone who could also benefit from this newsletter, please share the subscription link with them, link is here.