Private and Public Services

HANDBOOKS

Estonia: State, Society and Language

Working and Labour Market

My Rights and Responsibilities

Networking, Volunteering and Leisure Time

Children and Family

Kindergarten and Schools

Higher Education and Research

Residence and Citizenship

Business and Entrepreneurship

Introduction

1. Services Designed for Foreigners

1.1. Relocation services

1.2. Moving your belongings

1.3. Settle in Estonia programme

1.4. Counselling centres and mentoring

Police and Border Guard migration advisors

Integration Foundation

International House of Estonia

Tartu Welcome Centre

EURES Estonia

1.5. Civil society organisations and cultural activities

1.6. Learning Estonian

2. Residence and Housing

2.1. Searching for a place to live

2.2. Fees related to renting

2.3. Agreements related to housing

Renting

Purchase and sales

2.4. Requirements for maintaining rented or purchased real estate

2.5. Residency address registration

2.6. Waste management at your place of residence

2.7. Telecommunication services

3. Banking Services

3.1 Opening an account

3.2 Bank cards

3.3. Online banking

3.4. Bank

3.5.

4. ID-Cards and Residence Permit Cards

4.1. Areas of use of residence permit cards

4.2. Applying for documents

4.3. Authorization codes

4.4. E-mail address @eesti.ee

4.5. Digital documents

4.6. Digital signature

5. E-Services

5.1. E-Tax Board

5.2. E-School, Stuudium and ELIIS

5.3. Police and Border Guard Board e-services

5.4. E-elections

5.5.

6. Transportation

6.1. Public transportation

Airports

6.2.

7. Healthcare

7.1. Family doctors and specialized doctors

7.2. Online medical services

7.3. Hospitals

7.4. Dental care

7.5. Emergency care

7.6. EU health insurance card

7.7. Digilugu health portal

7.8. Pharmacies

7.9. COVID-19 pandemic

9. Other Services

9.1. Emergency telephone number 112

9.2. Postal services Mailing a letter Parcel services

2.4. Waste management Packaging

2.5. Legal counselling

2.6. Victim support

2.7. People with

INTRODUCTION

Dear reader,

Thank you for participating in the “Settle in Estonia” programme. Our programme has been designed for foreigners who have decided to move to Estonia and our courses have been available to new arrivals since 2015. Whether your reason for choosing Estonia is based on your family connections, work, study or business interests, our programme is here to help you settle in and nd your feet in a new country.

The handbook you currently have in front of you is designed to act as a reference point you can use even after the course has nished. We hope it will be useful to you during your rst years in Estonia and will help you nd the correct and up-to-date information on the subject you are interested in. The handbook is updated on a regular basis to make sure the information contained in it is accurate. You can nd the details of the current issue on the back cover. When new versions become available, you can nd them on the website: issuu.com/settleinestonia

This handbook provides an overview of services that are available for people in Estonia both by the public, private and third sector. Being new to this country, it is worth knowing what kind of services can be accessed and what type of support you can expect, whom should you address your concerns to and what to consider. In general, this handbook attempts to provide you with the most fundamental and important information that you might want to have when moving to Estonia. Enjoy the reading!

Lennart Meri

Former President of Estonia

(1992-2001)

The Estonian state is costly and the Estonian state is dear. It is costly for the citizen's pocketbook and it is dear to the citizen's heart.

1. SERVICES DESIGNED FOR FOREIGNERS

During the last decade, the Estonian government and employers have put in a lot of e ort to develop support services and information materials that help newcomers settle in Estonia. This section provides a brief overview of such initiatives.

1.1. RELOCATION SERVICES

When moving your personal belongings from other countries to Estonia, it is advised to use a professional moving company’s services. This guarantees that your belongings reach their destination safely, customs-related services are handled correctly, and your property is insured during the moving process.

If you are moving within the European Union, customs regulations generally do not apply. To cut costs, it is possible to rent a van or a small truck and drive your belongings to Estonia. In such a case you should consider risks that are covered when using a moving company.

Companies that provide professional relocation services operate in Estonia, providing paid services which may increase your comfort in arriving in Estonia and coping with life here. If you are moving to Estonia for work, your employer may already have a contract with one of such companies. Some of these companies include MoveMyTalent (movemytalent.com), Talent Mobility Management (talentmobility.ee), Expat Relocation Estonia (expatestonia.ee), Jobbatical Relocation Services (jobbatical.com).

Services provided by them may include, for example, nding you a place to live, helping you move your things, conclude rental agreements, order utility services and executing your documents concerning your stay in Estonia.

For a detailed description of services, review the information on such companies’ websites and contact them in person.

1.2. MOVING YOUR BELONGINGS

International shipping companies can help you bring your belongings to Estonia. Shipping times vary depending on your country of origin. If you are moving from an EU country, there are no tax restrictions. If you move from a non-EU country, import tax might be imposed on some imported goods. You can import your personal property (such as household items) by applying for tax exemption. Clothes and other necessities are not taxed. Items you have had for less than six months will be subject to import duties and taxes. You can nd a detailed list of required documents on the Tax and Customs Board website at emta.ee

1.3. SETTLE IN ESTONIA PROGRAMME

After you have already arrived in Estonia, there are several services targeted speci cally to foreigners, including so-called welcoming programmes. The major one is the Settle in Estonia Programme (EE: ), that 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. The programme, which includes various training courses, gives an overview of how the state of Estonia and the society function and how daily life is organised.

All foreigners with a residence permit who have arrived in Estonia during the last ve years are welcome to participate in the Settle in Estonia programme. Within the programme, the participants can learn Estonian and receive information about working and studying in Estonia, as well as family-related matters.

The Settle in Estonia programme consists of modules – training seminars on di erent subjects. The modules include basic, studying, family life, research, international protection, work and entrepreneurship and language training. The programme also includes several handbooks on major areas of life in Estonia, one of which is the one you are currently reading!

For more information see settleinestonia.ee

1.4. COUNSELLING CENTRES AND MENTORING

1.4.1. Police and Border Guard migration advisors

Migration advisors at the Police and Border Guard Board support foreigners in settling in Estonia and are a partner to employers, entrepreneurs, educational institutions and to others who invite foreigners to Estonia. Advisors work in Estonian, English and Russian. The service is free of charge. Foreigners are welcome to meet with consultants to discuss the living, working, doing business or research, and studying in Estonia. Advisors provide counselling over the phone, by email, Skype, and face to face.

For more information and to book an appointment see the webpage of the Police and Border Guard Board politsei.ee/en/migration-consultants

1.4.2. Integration Foundation

The advisers from the Integration Foundation’s Counselling Centre and its counselling web (at integratsioon.ee) o er a wide range of information and can refer people on to other agencies and service providers where needed. The advisory services are available to anyone who has questions about living in Estonia.

The advisers can introduce Estonian residents to public services they may need or be interested in and can support them in dealing with state institutions and local authorities. Centres are located in Tallinn and Narva.

1.4.3. International House of Estonia

International House of Estonia (IHE) is a common service centre in Tallinn providing a wide range of essential information – consultations and public authority services for international newcomers and local employers. IHE provides free personal consultations for foreigners, their families, and local employers about settling in, documentation, healthcare, language programs etc.

All consultations at IHE require prior booking and the services are meant for foreigners already residing in Estonia or arriving shortly. PAY ATTENTION!

For more information go to workinestonia.com/internationalhouse

1.4.4.

Tartu Welcome Centre

Tartu Welcome Centre is a team of local advisers with the mission of supporting newcomers in the process of settling in. All services are free of charge and meant for international newcomers and their family members living in Tartu or South-Estonia. The services provided include free consultations, registry services, cultural and networking events, and useful information.

For more information see tartuwelcomecentre.ee

1.4.5. EURES Estonia

The purpose of EURES (European Employment Services) Estonia is designed to facilitate the free movement of workers within the EU countries plus Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. Moreover, EURES has an important role to play in providing speci c information and facilitate placements for the bene t of employers and frontier workers in European cross-border regions. EURES provides a broad range of services – for example, information about the rules of the Estonian labour market and job seeking in Estonia that is available on the EURES portal or through the vast human network of more than a thousand advisers working in the EURES Member and Partner organisations. More information about EURES can be found on its website at eures.ee and in the handbook on working and the labour market.

For more information see eures.ee

1.5. CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

The international community more than doubled in Estonia during the past few years. The largest groups of foreigners in Estonia are international students, people coming to work here as well as their accompanying families. There are many civil society organisations, communities and online groups aiming to ease the process of settling in, establishing new connections and providing personalised advice from people with a similar background. A selection of them is listed here below. For more speci c groups, organisations, or networks, see the handbook on networking, volunteering and leisure time.

Online and general communities:

International House of Estoniaworkinestonia.com/internationalhouse

International House Tartu - internationalhouse.ee

Estonian Institute – estinst.ee

InterNations – internations.org

Meetup – meetup.com

Tallinn International Rotary Club - tallinnirc.com

Community and support organisations:

Johannes Mihkelson Centre – jmk.ee

Estonian Refugee Council – pagulasabi.ee

Facebook groups:

CS Tallinn –facebook.com/groups/161289290595440

Expats in Tallinn/Estonia –facebook.com/groups/166477880066544

Foreigners in Tartu –facebook.com/groups/566151516818945

Foreigners living in Estonia –facebook.com/groups/650733614961733

More information about di erent groups can be found in the handbook on networking, volunteering and leisure time.

1.6. LEARNING ESTONIAN

There are many ways to start or continue learning Estonian. Options include Estonian language courses (from A1 to C1 levels), informal study (language and culture clubs and cafés), studying Estonian independently by using dedicated websites or apps, or revising published learning materials, and testing your local language level. A lot of the materials and several courses are provided free of charge.

If you are interested in learning Estonian, check out the handbook on the Estonian language.

2. RESIDENCE AND HOUSING

2.1. SEARCHING FOR A PLACE TO LIVE

The Estonian rental market in major cities and towns is quite vibrant. Locations for tenants with di erent needs and expectations are available. The most common way to nd a place for rent or properties for sale is to use online real estate websites. Major websites include city24.ee and kv.ee

These real estate websites contain thousands of properties for sale and rent at any given time. Major websites also have menus in foreign languages. The content of the advertisements is generally in Estonian, but you can always try contacting the owner in English or Russian, for example by sending an e-mail rst.

To nd a suitable place to live, use the lters available on the websites. The lters enable you to choose the most suitable real estate o ers according to criteria important to you.

Some real estate sites let you lter rental properties directly from the owner (EE: ). In these cases, there is no broker fee. Often, these properties are snatched up so quickly that they do not reach the general public. There are also local Facebook groups that list such rentals (e.g. ‘Üürikorterid (ILMA MAAKLERITA)’ and ‘Korterite üürimine (MAAKLERITETA!)’ in Facebook).

Some landlords are not inclined to rent their property to foreigners. Barriers may include both language and fear (i.e. the lack of trust) of renting an apartment to someone from another country. Another problem people face when renting an apartment is the so-called ‘black’ rental market, where properties are rented informally and without paying taxes. Settling the payments in cash or with misleading descriptions in bank transfers may leave renters without the necessary sense of security. Also, although it is your right and obligation to register the rental as your residence address in the Population Registry, it is better to con rm this with the landlord beforehand to avoid any issues in the future. On how to register your residence in Estonia, please see the handbook on residence and citizenship.

In Tallinn, during the last few years, several rental buildings have been developed where people can rent directly from a company rather than a private individual who owns the property or through a real estate agent. Some of the examples include Lumi kodud in Tallinn, Laava Apartments in Mustamäe and Ülemiste City Residences. While both short and long-term rentals are available, renting an apartment from one of these companies may be a little more expensive compared to renting directly from a private individual. However, it usually involves a lot less hassle and comes with a stronger sense of security.

Did you know?

In Estonia, there is no “ground” oor and counting starts from the oor on the street level which is considered the 1st oor. As such, the 1st oor in the UK, for example, is the 2nd oor in Estonia.

To nd a suitable place to live, use the lters available on the websites. The lters enable you to choose the most suitable real estate o ers according to criteria important to you.

2.2. FEES RELATED TO RENTING

The fees related to renting an apartment are divided into four groups:

Some real estate sites let you lter rental properties directly from the owner (EE: otse omanikult). In these cases, there is no broker fee. Often, these properties are snatched up so quickly that they do not reach the general public. There are also local Facebook groups that list such rentals (e.g. ‘Üürikorterid (ILMA MAAKLERITA)’ and ‘Korterite üürimine (MAAKLERITETA!)’ in Facebook).

1. Rent of the apartment – this fee is agreed upon in the rental agreement. Rent is paid once a month, generally in advance (consequently, the rent for January is paid at the end of December or beginning of January)

2. Deposit – this sum is paid once prior to moving in. The deposit remains in the possession of the landlord for the entire rental period. When the rental period ends and you move out of the property, the deposit is usually returned to you. If the bills are left unpaid after you move out or if you have damaged the property, the owner has the right to pay these expenses using the deposit. The deposit is usually equal to one month’s rent. In some cases (more expensive properties) it can be equal to the rent for 2 or 3 months.

3. Utilities – utilities include all the running costs related to using an apartment, such as water, electricity, and heat. Often the tenant is responsible for paying the general costs for the building, such as cleaning, maintenance etc.

The exact amount paid for utilities is not usually laid down in the agreement. That is why it is important to nd out the utilities for the speci c property –ask the owner or realtor to show you earlier bills (particularly for the winter months in Estonia, when heating costs may double the total sum of utilities). Occasionally, especially with properties that are older or in bad shape, utilities can be very high (sometimes even as high as the rent!). And although the repair fund (EE: ) item in the utility bill is technically the owner’s responsibility, it is usually the tenant who pays this monthly fee.

4. Agreement fee or realtor arrangement fee. Most properties posted on websites are o ered through realtors. The realtor represents the owner of the property and arranges the nding of tenants, draws up the agreements, and shows the property to interested parties. However, traditionally the realtor fee is paid by the tenant. The realtor fee is usually equal to one month’s rent.

Example:

To nd a suitable place to live, use the lters available on the websites. The lters enable you to choose the most suitable real estate o ers according to criteria important to you.

If you have decided to move into a property where the monthly rent is € 500, generally you have to pay:

€ 500 – rst month’s rent in advance

€ 500 – deposit

€ 500 – realtor fee

Total: € 1,500

2.3. AGREEMENTS RELATED TO HOUSING

2.3.1. Renting

When renting, a rental agreement (EE: ) is concluded between the owner and the tenant. The agreement speci es the rental period, the rights and obligations of the parties and information related to amending the agreement. Before signing a rental agreement, it is very important to review the terms and conditions of the agreement in detail. If the agreement is in Estonian (and usually it is) and you lack the language skills needed, you must ask the realtor or a local to explain the contents of the agreement to you as thoroughly as possible.

The rental agreement is generally signed when the tenant moves into the property (upon handing over the property). Upon handing over the property, usually, an annex to the rental agreement is made. This annex lists items handed over by the owner (furniture, lighting ttings, appliances, etc) to the tenant. It also states any defects in the property (stains, damages, non-working appliances, etc.). After concluding the rental agreement, the tenant has the right to notify the owner of any discovered defects within 7 days. It is advised to document these defects on photographs and forward the pictures to the owner by e-mail. Including this annex in the rental agreement is important, as it helps prevent disputes when the rental period expires, and the tenant returns the property to the owner. This annex is revised during the handing over of the property to the owner after the rental term expires and the tenant moves out. Useful tips for concluding a rental agreement: just.ee/en/usefultips-concluding-lease-contract

2.3.2. Purchase and sales

Buying property in a foreign country is one of the most complex decisions in the process of relocation. It is recommended to use a real estate agency and consult a notary or law rm in the process. Individuals and companies, who are not members of the European Union or EEA, can buy a house or plot of land with the permission of local authorities. In most cases, there are no restrictions on buying apartments.

PAY ATTENTION!

The sales contract must always be notarized. The notary public also prepares the application to the Land Register for transfer of ownership and title. The parties must sign the transfer documents at the notary’s o ice.

2.4. REQUIREMENTS FOR MAINTAINING RENTED OR PURCHASED REAL ESTATE

Renting your housing, the rental agreement regulates the need to maintain the property. Usually, the phrasing is quite general saying that you must use the house carefully. The owner is interested in retaining the property value in the long term.

In essence, it means that you must do everything possible to keep the property and the interior clean and undamaged. If damages occur, you must recover them. If that is not possible, you must contact the owner, explain what has happened and nd a solution. If the damages are serious and according to the rental agreement the responsibility rests on you, you are bound to replace the damaged object with a similar undamaged object. Your exact responsibility will depend on the details of the rental agreement.

In the common areas of the building (corridors/hallways, gardens, common balconies etc), separate rules of the house established by the owner or the housing association (EE: ) are usually in e ect. It is always advisable to ask and review such rules when moving into a new location. This includes the so-called night hours (EE: ) when there is a limitation for the noise you can make (for example, listening to music or having loud parties).

Maintaining sidewalks

Keeping sidewalks clean and safe is the duty of the owner of the building or private house. In the winter, owners must:

Ensure de-icing of the pedestrian walkways bordering their property and provide sanding materials, if necessary;

Check the roof and facade regularly and remove built-up snow and icicles.

If you rent a house, winter maintenance should be regulated in the rental agreement.

2.5. RESIDENCY ADDRESS REGISTRATION

Everyone living in Estonia must register their permanent address in the population register in the long term, even if it is a rented home. This gives you access to public and social services, such as a general practitioner/family doctor, free public transportation (in Tallinn), and social bene ts. The EU, EAA, and Swiss citizens must register their address within the rst 3 months of moving to Estonia. The rst registration can only be done in person. Non-EU citizens must register within 30 days of receiving their temporary residence permit card. See more also in the handbook on residency and citizenship.

There are several ways to change your o icial residence address in the Estonian population register. You can:

Submit the residence notice form in person at the local government unit or the International House of Estonia if you live in Tallinn.

If you have an Estonian residence permit card or ID-card, you can email the residence notice form and signed rental agreement to the local government, digitally signed with your ID-card.

If you have an Estonian residence permit card or ID-card, you can register online via eesti.ee and the owner of your home can con rm the registration.

You may also send the lled and signed notice form and copies of the rental agreement to (the registry department of) the local government.

Address information

All immovable properties in Estonia have an address. An address is composed of the following elements:

Street name

House number (and apartment number, if applicable). Usually written in the format of “house number”-“apartment number”

Zip code (see omniva.ee)

City / town / rural municipality

Example of a city address

Pikk 12-5, 10123 Tallinn

Example of a rural address

Puka talu, Harkujärve küla, Harku vald, 76912 Harjumaa

2.6. WASTE MANAGEMENT AT YOUR PLACE OF RESIDENCE

If you live in an apartment building, your housing association (EE: , ) has most likely organised the collection and removal of waste. As a rule, there are garbage cans in the basement of the building or near the building and you have the right to take your waste there. In some cases, waste is recycled before collection. In that case, you must sort your waste into the following categories:

Municipal waste Paper and cardboard Biodegradable waste

Hazardous waste and electrical waste must always be taken to a waste plant or, in the case of electronics, to an electronics store. The information and locations of waste plants can be found on the website of your local municipality.

2.7. TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES

Estonia is known for its high-tech lifestyle. Feeling connected is very important for Estonians. Almost everyone, from executives to children, communicates by mobile phones and e-mail.

Estonia has one of the highest numbers of mobile phones per capita in the world. Many people no longer use landlines. There are no public phone booths in Estonia.

2.7.1. Phone services

Mobile phones have become very important in everyday life. They are used to paying for parking and banking services, and to purchase public transport and movie tickets. All mobile phone service providers also o er mobile internet services.

In Estonia, there are more mobile phone contracts than residents.

Calling cards (rechargeable prepaid SIM cards) have no monthly payments, but stick to slightly higher per-minute rates, and can be bought from all petrol stations and news-stands. Permanent contracts require you to visit a service provider’s service o ice. Such o ices are in major shopping centres, and you can always go to the o ice that is most convenient for you to visit.

All landline phone numbers in Estonia have 7 digits. For international calls, dial 00, then the country code, area code and phone number.

The country code for Estonia is +372.

The main mobile phone service providers in Estonia are:

- tele2.ee TELIA - telia.ee

2.7.2. TV / Internet / Landlines

- elisa.ee

The easiest and most convenient way to set up telecom services in your home is to contact one of the service providers that o er packages including all the necessary services you need – landline, TV, and Internet. The prices of such services are low compared to other countries, starting from approximately €30 per month and depending on your speci c needs. You can choose which TV channels you would like to access (local and international) and the type of Internet connection you prefer (in terms of speed and capacity).

You can also choose among additional services, e.g. recording your favourite shows, video rentals, etc.

Without a residence card, you will have to make a security deposit that you will get back once you have your card. Sometimes, it can very expensive (up to a few hundred euros). If your home has a connection with the provider, activation usually takes 3-4 hours. If a connection is not set up in the apartment, it might take up to a week to get it done.

The main service providers that provide Internet, TV and landlines STV - stv.ee

TELIA - telia.ee ELISA - elisa.ee

3. BANKING SERVICES

Tahad sõbrast lahti saada, laena talle raha

If you want to get rid of a friend, lend him money

In Estonia, most money transactions take place through bank transfers (including salary payments and payments of state fees). Therefore, it is strongly recommended for every resident to open a bank account. You can open a bank account in most commercial banks and the terms and conditions applied to current accounts are relatively similar in all of them.

3.1. OPENING AN ACCOUNT

Residents, as well as non-residents of Estonia, may open an Estonian bank account. Restrictions apply to non-residents when opening bank accounts –opening an account may cost some money (depending on the bank this can be around 200 euros), take up to a week and the daily transfer limits are low (up to € 200 per day as a rule).

As a resident, to open a bank account in Estonia, you need to appear at a bank in person bringing your ID document issued in Estonia. All bank o ices open bank accounts – you do not need to go to the main o ice. If you work in Estonia, it is recommended to also bring your employment contract – the bank may ask you for the contract in some cases. Opening and having a bank account is free of charge in most banks. You can start banking online once you have your residence permit/ID-card.

Before you receive your Estonian temporary residence permit you can open an international Transferwise Borderless bank account and get a debit card.

EXAMPLE of a bank account number used in Estonia: EE12 3456 7890 1234 5678

3.2. BANK CARDS

You can pay by card (including and increasingly also with contactless payments, up to 50 EUR) practically everywhere in Estonia. No service fees are added when you pay by card. The advantage of paying by card is not having to carry cash and strangers cannot access your money if the card is lost or stolen.

If you order a bank card from a bank, it pays to specify the following:

Will you have to pick the card up from the o ice yourself or is it going to be mailed to you (as a rule, you can choose between those two options)?

What is the monthly fee for the bank card?

What is the fee for money withdrawals from an ATM of the same bank and an ATM of another bank? As a rule, withdrawing money from an ATM of the same bank is free of charge

Will the bank card also allow you to make online payments?

3.3. ONLINE BANKING

You can conclude nearly all bank transactions via online banking. Bank transactions made via online banking are signi cantly cheaper than transactions made in bank o ices and through ATMs. Nearly all banks operating in Estonia have online bank environments and apps with a wide selection of opportunities. You can log in to an online bank using your ID card, smart ID, mobile ID, PIN-calculator, or most recently, also with biometric data (using face-id or ngerprints with your phone).

3.4. BANK TRANSFERS

Money transfers from one Estonian bank to another are quick, often immediate. On business days, transactions made before 4:30 p.m. go through the same day. If you transfer money from one account to another within the same bank, the transfer takes place instantly. Fees that are applied to transfers within Estonia generally remain below €0.40. There are usually no transaction fees for transfers to accounts within the same bank.

Transfers to other countries in the Euro-zone (SEPA payments) also go through quickly (with 1-2 business days as a rule, depending on whether the payment was made before or after 1:00 p.m.). Here, transfer fees also remain below €1.

Transfers outside of the Eurozone and EU member states may take longer. Service fees are higher for such transfers. All transfers can be concluded online. One can use online services such as Transferwise to transfer money from or to non-EU countries. Service fees there are usually lower than those for usual international bank transfers.

3.5. OTHER WAYS OF SENDING MONEY

Western Union transfer services can also be used in Estonia. The service is mediated by Omniva (Estonian postal service provider) and you need to go to a post o ice to transfer or receive money. TransferWise is also a possible alternative.

Did you know?

Transferwise was founded in 2011 by Estonians Kristo Käärmann and Taavet Hinrikus.

The biggest commercial banks involved in everyday banking:

Luminorluminor.ee

SEBseb.ee

Swedbankswedbank.ee

COOP Pankcooppank.ee

Never keep the PIN codes of your bank card written down in the same place as your card or written on the bank card. PAY ATTENTION!

LHVlhv.ee

4. ID-CARDS AND RESIDENCE PERMIT CARDS

Estonian identity documents issued to foreigners enable you to use the e-services provided by both the state and the private sector. These documents keep the holder’s digital identity, enable digital identi cation and digital signature. If a public service by its nature cannot be digitalised (i.e. physical presence is required for ngerprints etc), information related to such services is still available online.

In Estonia, identity documents that contain digital identity (i.e. digital documents) are:

Identity card (ID-card)

Digital identity card

Residence permit card

e-Resident smart identity card

Mobile-ID

More information on requirements and applying for identity and residence permit cards can be found in the residence and citizenship handbook and the website of the Police and Border Guard Board politsei.ee

Identity cards of Estonia can be used for visual identi cation (at a bank, at a doctor’s o ice, at a store etc.) and digital identi cation (logging in online etc.) of a person, as a travel document within the European Union, and for digital signature and encryption and decryption of les.

Residence permit cards can be used similarly to identity cards, except for traveling purposes. Consequently, a residence permit card cannot be used as a travel document.

Identity card

Residence permit card

4.1. AREAS OF USE OF RESIDENCE PERMIT CARDS

Digital identity cards and Mobile-ID can only be used for digital operations, i.e. they cannot be used for physical identi cation or as a travel document.

If the digital document contains a chip in a plastic card, you would need to download a special ID-card software into your computer (free and very easy to install and use). This is in addition to ID-card reader which should be bought as well (can be bought at any computer store or many supermarkets). Mobile-ID can be included in any phone (not only smartphone) that contains a special SIM card. For more information and instructions on Mobile-ID or ID-cards, in general, please go to the website id.ee

Mobile-ID allows for identi cation and signature using a computer, a smartphone, or a tablet and you do not need a chip card reader or any special software.

Did you know?

98% of Estonians have an ID-card.

4.2. APPLYING FOR DOCUMENTS

To apply for an identity card, digital identity card, and a residence permit card in Estonia, you must visit the Police and Border Guard Board’s (EE: ) service o ice. You can check for opening times and book an appointment on their website at politsei.ee. Their o ices are open in all counties.

To apply for a Mobile-ID rst contact a mobile connection provider such as Telia, Elisa, or Tele2 that will provide you with a required new SIM card. Next, go to the Police and Border Guard’s website to apply and register your certicates.

For instructions on how to apply for documents, go to home pages of mobile connection providers.

4.3. AUTHORIZATION CODES

With your digital document, you will receive a PIN-envelope containing your PIN1, PIN2, and PUK code which you will need in order to use document electronically. PIN1 is used for identi cation and you will have to enter this PIN when logging in to websites, for instance. PIN2 is required for digital signatures. If you enter your PIN1 or PIN2 wrongly three consecutive times, your PIN will be locked. The PUK code unlocks locked PIN codes.

Did you know?

Digital signatures in Estonia have the same legal force as physical signatures

You can change your PIN codes using the ID software management tool

PIN codes do not expire; yet may be changed as often as you like

Do not change the codes into two identical codes to better remember them!

Keep your PIN codes secret from others

Never keep your PIN codes with your chip card or mobile phone

If a malicious person gets hold of your PIN codes and your chip card or mobile phone, they can impersonate you online and provide legally binding digital signatures on your behalf!

If you lose or forget your PIN codes, you will be issued a new PIN envelope at either a Police and Border Guard Board service point or at a bank o ice

4.4. E-MAIL ADDRESS @EESTI.EE

Each holder of digital identity has their own personal e-mail address @eesti.ee provided by Estonia, which serves as a means of o icial communication between the state and the citizen where the state may send o icial notices and personal information concerning the individual. The e-mail address functions in the following format: personal identi cation code @eesti.ee, e.g. 47302200234@ eesti.ee.

@eesti.ee addresses are connected to a redirectable mail server. To receive messages delivered to your @eesti.ee address, you are encouraged to forward/redirect e-mails to your actual e-mail address(es) where you normally receive your e-mails. To con gure your @eesti.ee address, go to the state portal at eesti.ee

4.5. DIGITAL DOCUMENTS

As mentioned before, if your digital documents (plastic cards) contain a chip, you need to download a special ID software into your computer, which is available free at installer.id.ee

ID software consists of three components: the ID card management tool, DigiDoc, and Krüpto.

The ID card management tool manages personal details and other data related to digital identity. This is the easiest way to verify that your certicates are valid, change your PIN codes if required, redirect your @eesti.ee address, and perform several other operations.

To use the ID card management tool, attach a chip card reader to a computer equipped with the ID software, insert a chip card into the reader and open the management tool – then proceed as directed by the software.

DigiDoc is meant for digital signatures. Using the le explorer in your computer (for example, Microsoft Windows Explorer), right-click at a le name – an Estonian command “allkirjasta document” (sign document) appears – then proceed as directed by the software.

Krüpto aka the encryption/decryption tool ensures secure le transport. Encrypting and decrypting electronic documents or computer les is very easy with DigiDoc client and RIA DigiDoc mobile app. However, keep in mind that encryption is intended for the secure transmission of information (via e-mail or other communication channels). It is not suitable for long-term le storage! Instructions for encrypting documents with RIA DigiDoc app are available on the id.ee webpage.

To use Mobile-ID, the regular mobile phone SIM card must be replaced by a SIM card that supports digital identi cation and digital signatures. As such, the telephone replaces a chip card and chip card reader. Mobile-ID can be used with both a regular mobile phone and a smartphone. To use Mobile-ID you do not have to install any additional software on your computer. You can apply and get Mobile-ID card for your phone at any main mobile phone service providers store (usually it comes with a monthly fee of around 1 EUR).

Desktops and most laptops sold in Estonia are equipped with an integrated chip card reader. Otherwise, you can use an external USB chip card reader (can be bought at any computer store in Estonia for around 15-20 EUR).

4.6. DIGITAL SIGNATURE

Digital signature enables you to perform operations electronically and paper-free. Before digital signatures, these operations usually required you to provide a handwritten signature on a hard copy. In Estonia, the term “digital signature” (i.e. digi-signature, digital signing, etc) refers only to a signature that is legally valid and legally equivalent to a handwritten signature. To put it plainly, it has been identi ed who signed it and it is ensured that no third party has changed the document to be signed since it was signed.

There are several bene ts to digitally signed documents over hard copies:

Digital documents do not take up almost any space (neither physical nor digital)

Digital documents do not require paper, a printer, or other redundant resources

You do not need to deliver the document anywhere in person. They go where they need to go all on their own – by e-mail

Digital signing is very simple. You will only need a digital document (e.g. an ID-card, digi-ID, mobile-ID or Smart-ID) and a signing solution (e.g. ID software or RIA DigiDoc mobile app). In Estonia, people save about 5 working days per year thanks to the electronic identity (eID) ecosystem and DigiDoc software.

The easiest way to locate a required e-service is to use the state portal eesti.ee. You do not need to log in to view information of general nature.

Did you know?

As of 2020, over 900 million digital signatures have been given in Estonia.

5. E-SERVICES

The Estonian state currently o ers around 600 e-services to its citizens and 2,400 to businesses. Some balance on the cutting-edge of innovation, while others are so commonplace that Estonians cannot imagine their lives without them. Utilising a locally developed Electronic ID card, which e ectively acts as an online passport, a large proportion of Estonians can and regularly do:

Sign contracts remotely

Use ID cards to pay for public transportation

Pay for parking using a mobile phone

Vote online

Conduct bank transactions online

Receive digital prescriptions from the doctor, even remotely

Declare tax online

Students can check grades, learning progress and access learning materials

Create a new company within 18 minutes on your PC

Apply for government aid, (e.g. maternity leave pay)

For more information on Estonian e-services, please visit the website e-estonia.com/services

5.1. E-TAX BOARD

The Estonian Tax and Customs Board (EE: ) has been providing e-services starting from 2000. Each year, around 98 per cent of all tax declarations in Estonia are led electronically. With e-taxation service, user information is stored online in a pre- lled form. All you have to do is review and click send, taking only three minutes on average.

In fact, most communication with EMTA by both private and corporate clients as well as employers is undertaken digitally. You can use any digital identity document (identity card, digital identity card, residence permit card, e-Resident smart identity card, Mobile-ID) or a bank link to log in to EMTA online.

In addition to individual income tax claims, other declarations can be made in the system:

An enterprise’s declarations for income tax, social tax, unemployment insurance and contributions to the mandatory pension fund

Value-added tax returns

Alcohol excise, tobacco excise, fuel excise and packaging excise duty returns

INF declarations

Customs declarations

Determination of residency R form

5.2. E-SCHOOL, STUUDIUM AND ELIIS

e-School (eKool) and Stuudium are communication environments enabling communication between children, parents, teachers, heads of school, and local governments. e-School provides an easy way for teachers and parents to collaborate and organise teaching and learning related activities. Over 85% of Estonia’s schools use e-School. See more at ekool.ee

digital signatures. Using the le explorer in your computer (for example, Microsoft Windows Explorer), right-click at a le name – an Estonian command “allkirjasta document” (sign document) appears – then proceed as directed by the software.

Stuudium is also gaining popularity and is used in more than 250 schools and kindergartens in Estonia. See more at stuudium.com

ELIIS (e-kindergarten) is an information system that o ers kindergartens digital solutions for communications, statistics, reports, etc. See more at eliis.eu

5.3. POLICE AND BORDER GUARD BOARD E-SERVICES

The documents you may le digitally with the Police and Border Guard Board include, for example, statements notifying of an o ence, notices of o ences against property, notices of o ences against the person, notices of o ences against public order etc.

Statements about serious crimes cannot be led by e-mail. In the case of a serious crime, immediately call the emergency telephone number 112. PAY ATTENTION!

When Estonians say “e-police”, what they usually mean is a set of innovative solutions used by the police to render faster and more e icient police services. For example, a police o icer has all the tools he may need to conduct an entire procedure in a police car. For example, you do not even need to have your Estonian drivers licence (plastic card) with you, instead, your eligibility to drive vehicles is checked when you have your ID-card with you.

5.4. E-ELECTIONS

The e-election (or i-voting) is a unique online service delivered by the state. In e-elections remote voting takes place online; thus far, Estonia is the only country in the world to use e-elections and online elections have been employed starting from 2005. In the last parliamentary election in Estonia in 2023, 51,2% of voters cast their votes online.

E-voting is like regular voting and follows the election acts and election practices. Voting is uniform and employs a secret ballot, all persons with the right to vote can vote at elections, each person only has one vote, it is impossible to disclose whom the voter voted for etc. E-voting is at least as reliable and secure as regular voting. The collection of votes is auditable.

In e-elections, voters must have their identity checked and they must provide a digital signature. Consequently, voters must have a digital identity and this identity usually comes together with your ID-card, digital identity card, residence permit card or Mobile-ID. Most importantly, it must have an electronic chip on your card and you need to have your PIN-codes and updated certi cates.

You can e-vote using either a desktop or a laptop computer. In the last elections, a mobile app for Mobile-ID was developed and used.

To make sure everything goes smoothly when the actual voting comes, you can go to valimised.ee and make a test-vote online. Test-voting enables you to check whether your computer has the required settings, whether the ID card (or Mobile-ID SIM card) certi cates are valid, and whether you still have your PIN codes. And if you want to know which elections you can attend and vote at, please read the handbook on Estonian state, society and culture.

5.5. E-HEALTHCARE

E-healthcare starts with the Health Portal (EE: ; terviseportaal.ee). The portal uses information from the health information system and such information is only available through the portal to the relevant people themselves and doctors authorized by the person.

After authenticating using e-ID, Smart-ID or Mobile-ID, the health portal enables you to see the following:

View your health details i.e. medical documents prepared and sent to the health information system by doctors.

Appoint representatives to perform di erent acts (buying prescribed medications), le declarations of intent.

Check by name who and when has viewed your health information.

View details stored in the prescription centre.

In short, in the health portal, patients have access to their own records, as well as those of their underaged children and people who have authorized them for access. By logging into the health portal, the patient can review doctor visits and current prescriptions, and check which doctors have had access to their les.

To book a doctor’s appointment, contact the relevant health service provider.

For general (non-electronic) healthcare services, please see chapter 7 below.

5.5.1. Digital prescription (e-prescription)

E-Prescription is a centralized paperless system for issuing and handling medical prescriptions. When a doctor prescribes a medicine using the system, he or she does so electronically, with the aid of an online form. Digital prescriptions are not printed as hard copies and are sent by the doctor online directly to the prescription centre. Prescriptions are then accessible to pharmacists. To pick up a prescribed medicine, bring an identity document containing a picture and personal identity code such as an ID card, a driver’s license, or passport with you. If you are buying medications for someone else, make sure you know their personal identi cation number. The pharmacist will quickly nd any relevant information using the patient’s ID code. You can purchase your digitally prescribed medications at any pharmacy in Estonia.

Did you know?

99% of all prescriptions in Estonia are issued electronically. This frees up time for patients and doctors and reduces administrative strain on hospitals.

Another major advantage of e-prescription system is that doctor visits are no longer needed for repeat prescriptions. You can contact the doctor by e-mail, Skype or phone, and the doctor can issue repeats with just a few clicks, and you can collect the medicine from your closest pharmacy.

To see all of your digital prescriptions go to eesti.ee. To see your child’s digital prescriptions log in to eesti.ee using child’s ID card.

Doctors may also prescribe a hard copy prescription if necessary.

6.1. PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Public transportation options in Estonia are very diverse ranging from buses and trains to planes and ferries. Below you will nd information regarding some of the main ways of travelling in the country.

6.1.1.

Airports

Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport is the main airport in Estonia. The airport (EE: ) is located just 4 km from the city centre. There are direct ights from Tallinn to several European cities, including Helsinki, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo, Berlin, Vienna, Riga, and Vilnius. Schedules change regularly. See more at tallinn-airport.ee

Other airports in Estonia are Tartu Airport, Pärnu Airport, Kuressaare Airport (Saaremaa), and Kärdla Airport (Hiiumaa). Tartu Airport is located 11 km from the city centre of Tartu. There are limited domestic routes from Tallinn to Kuressaare and Kärdla.

6.1.2. Ships

The Port of Tallinn is one of the biggest and busiest passenger ports in the Baltic region. More than 7 million passengers pass through the passenger terminals each year. Two main international lines (Tallinn-Helsinki, and Tallinn-Stockholm) are serviced by the following companies: Tallink (see more at tallink.ee), Viking Line (vikingline.ee), and Eckerö Line (eckeroline.ee).

The trip to Helsinki takes 2-3 hours depending on the ship, and there are several departures daily. A trip to Stockholm is an overnight trip as the ship departs in the evening and reaches the destination the next morning.

6.1.3. Domestic ferry routes

Estonia’s biggest islands – Saaremaa, Hiiumaa, and Muhu – bene t from regular ferry connections with the mainland. Discovering the islands by bicycle, car or bus is easy, and the ferries are fast and comfortable. Saaremaa and Muhu are connected to the coast via the Virtsu – Kuivastu ferry route. The ferry route between Hiiumaa and the mainland is called Rohuküla – Heltermaa. Rohuküla harbour is located close to the small seaside resort town of Haapsalu.

The Triigi – Sõru ferry route connects Saaremaa and Hiiumaa. During the o -season, ferries go twice every other day: one trip in the morning and one in the evening. Connections between the mainland and smaller islands are less frequent, and some are only serviced in the summer.

Did you know?

Estonia has had the longest ice road in Europe connecting the mainland and the island of Hiiumaa. It stretched 26km long.

Further information, timetables and tickets are available on the web: TS Laevad (praamid.ee), Tuule Laevad (tuuleliinid.ee) and Kihnu Veeteed (veeteed.com).

6.1.4. Trains

Domestic trains are operated by Elron. Train connections are available from Tallinn to Tartu, Narva, Valga, Rakvere, and Viljandi (including stops along these lines). See Elron’s destinations, train route maps and ticket prices at elron.ee

The Baltic Station (EE: ) in Tallinn is the main railway station in Estonia. All local commuter, inter-city, and international trains depart from this station. The Baltic Station is situated close to the Old Town. For timetables and tickets visit baltijaam.ee

6.1.5. Inter-city buses

The most widely used means of public transport between cities in Estonia is the bus. Main lines are well equipped and usually have free wireless internet onboard (the quality of the connection can vary).

All bigger cities/towns have central bus stations where one can make bookings and buy tickets. Buying tickets online is a popular option. It is recommended to check the website of a particular bus company. Usually, if there are vacant seats on the bus, one can buy tickets directly from the driver.

Tallinn Bus Station (EE: ) is the main intercity bus station in Estonia. It is located near the city centre. For detailed bus information and tickets to all destinations go to bussijaam.ee

For city and county bus line schedules go to peatus.ee

For schedules and tickets for bus lines operating across Estonia go to tpilet.ee

6.1.6. Taxis

Taxis can be ordered by phone and there are taxi stands located at major intersections and in front of bigger hotels and shopping malls too. Be sure to check the base fare and per kilometre rates before entering the taxi. Taxi rates should be clearly visible on a passenger window. The total cost for a ride is monitored by a taximeter. Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is recommended. All taxi drivers must provide a receipt upon request.

Average rates can be between €0.50-0.70 / km. There is also a fee for starting the ride, which is usually around €2.50-4. If fees indicated on the taxi window are signi cantly higher than provided above, it is recommended to choose another taxi. As there is no o icial ceiling for the fees, negligent passengers can fall victim to malicious drivers using arti cially high fees.

To review taxi service providers in Estonia and compare fare rates, go to taksod.net

It is very common to use phone apps for ordering a taxi, such as Bolt, Uber, or Forus for getting a taxi in Tallinn and other larger towns.

Be aware of illegal taxi drivers or unlicensed cabs – they are not permitted to provide taxi service. Unlicensed taxis usually do not have taximeters and therefore your fare rate might be considerably higher than that with licensed taxis.

6.1.7. Bicycle and electric scooter rental

Bicycle rental in Tartu

Tartu Smart Bike Share is a public, self-service bike share system for short trips. Bike Share includes over 750 bikes across 100 stations. Two-thirds of the eet is equipped with electric-assist motors that provide riders with an extra boost when pedalling. More information can be found on ratas.tartu.ee

Electric scooter rental

Electric scooters for rent are available in bigger cities in Estonia. Some bigger companies operating on the streets of Tallinn are Bolt and Tuul, and in Tartu Bolt. More information about the prices, rental conditions etc can be found on the websites of each company.

6.1.8. Public transport in Tallinn

The public transport system in Tallinn consists of buses, trolleybuses, trams, and city trains. Buses, trolleybuses, and trams usually operate regularly from about 5 a.m. to 12 midnight. In 2023 also the pilot project of the night buses was started.

In Tallinn, public transport is free for the city’s registered residents, but one still needs to:

Get a plastic smartcard/travelcard (EE: , ).

Personalise it, i.e. associate it with your personal identi cation code, either online at tallinn.pilet.ee or for a 1-euro service fee at any R-kiosk, most post o ices and information desks of larger supermarkets and shopping centres.

Carry a picture ID and validate your travelcard every time you ride.

Non-residents, including visitors and tourists, can load money onto the smartcard (EE: ) and buy single (2€) and 1-30-day tickets, purchase a QR-ticket online or using the mobile app pilet.ee, or with a contactless bankcard when boarding the public transport vehicle from the front door.

6.1.9. Public transport in Tartu and Narva

In Tartu, an electronic bus card or a contactless bank card must be swiped at on-board validators upon entering the city bus. Electronic bus cards can be bought from R-Kiosk convenience stores, Tartu bus station, Tartu Visitor Centre in Town Hall, information counters in Selver supermarkets and elsewhere.

One can add money to a card using website tartu.pilet.ee. Tartu bus card is in cross-usage with Tallinn`s green Smartcard and the public transportation cards of Ridango, GoBus and Atko. One-hour tickets can also be bought from the bus driver in cash only. You can check current prices as well as info about routes and timetables at visittartu.com/public-transport

Narva uses the same public transport system as Tartu. One can buy a ticket from the bus driver or use an electronic bus card. Narva bus card (Atko) is in cross-usage with Tallinn and Tartu Public Transport cards and Ridango, GoBus cards. Public transport card can be bought from the Post o ice, R-Kiosk convenience stores, supermarkets Prisma and Selver (in Astri shopping mall). Money can be loaded to the card in sales points or on the website narva.pilet.ee

6.1. DRIVING A CAR

6.1.8. Driver’s licence

Estonia recognizes driving licences issued in many states. To get an overview of how long and under which conditions the driving licence issued in your home country is valid in Estonia and how to exchange it for an Estonian driving licence, please visit and consult the Estonian Transport Administration transpordiamet.ee/en/foreign-driving-licence

To apply for a driver’s licence, you must go to the driving school (EE: ). The minimum course time is 6 weeks, after which you have to take the theoretical and practical exams. English-speaking examiners are not guaranteed, so you might have to bring a friend to translate.

More information about driver’s licences can be found on the webpage of the Estonian Transport Administration transpordiamet.ee/en/foreign-driving-licence

6.2.2. Buying and selling a car

If you buy a new or used car from an authorised car dealer, the dealer will take care of the registration procedure for you. If you buy a car from an individual, the change of ownership of a vehicle must be registered within ve working days. After you submit all the documents, the Estonian Transport Administration will issue the vehicle’s new Registration Card and plate number.

The portal auto24.ee is a good place to start looking for cars.

When you sell your car, the change of ownership of a vehicle must be registered with the Estonian Transport Administration. Customs and taxes will be assessed for the sale of a car imported from a non-EU country and sold within one year of its date of registration in Estonia. This applies both to new and used cars. Right after the sale, do not forget to cancel your insurance and get a refund for what you have already paid.

A compulsory third-party liability insurance agreement must be signed right after registering a car! Technical inspection is mandatory for all cars registered with the Estonian Transport Administration and the interval between inspections depends on the age of the car (1-3 years).

6.2.3. Relocating your car

Moving from the EU

You have to register your car within 12 months of your arrival, or as soon as you get your right of residence in Estonia. For this you should:

Take your car to the local Transport Administration service bureau for a check-up

Fill out an application to register your vehicle

Bring proof of ownership and the car’s registration certi cate form your country of origin

Pay the state fee and registration plate fee

Change the plates and get third party liability insurance before you start driving your car

Moving from outside the EU

After you get your residence permit, you can import your car duty-free if you have had it for at least six months. If you sell the car within your rst year in Estonia, it will be subject to import tax and VAT.

To register your car in Estonia, you need to follow these steps:

Start the importation declaration from the Tax and Customs Board

After passing customs and having received your residence permit, take your car to your local Transport Administration Bureau within ve working days

Fill out an application to register your vehicle

Bring proof of ownership and the car’s registration certi cate form your country of origin

Pay the state fee and registration plate fee

Change the plates and get third party liability insurance before you start driving your car

6.2.4.

Car insurance

Third-party liability insurance

Immediately after registering in Estonia, all vehicles must obtain third-party liability insurance issued by a licensed Estonian insurance company or by a local branch of a foreign insurance company. The insurance must be valid in Estonia, the EEA, the EU, and in Switzerland and the insurer must be a member of the Estonian Tra ic Insurance Fund. You can take o ers from insurance companies such as IF, Seesam, ERGO, Salva and others or go to iizi.ee, lkf.ee for a comparative quote.

Kasko insurance (car damage insurance)

Kasko insurance compensates damage caused by you. There are di erent types of insurance packages available with di erent conditions for coverage and deductibles. Generally, Kasko Insurance is valid in all European countries and is compulsory for leased cars.

6.2.5.

Car rental

Most car rentals have a pick-up point next to Tallinn airport. You will need a driving licence (valid in Estonia), passport, and a credit card. To rent a car, the driver must be at least 21 years old with at least 2 years of driving experience. There are rental car service providers in all the biggest cities in Estonia.

6.2.6. Parking

A parking fee is usually required when parking in city centres of larger cities/towns in Estonia. Signs nearby will indicate the price for di erent periods and parking zones. Blue lines on a parking space show that the particular spot is in a paid parking zone.

Parking tickets can be purchased from street-side parking meters. However, parking meters are not always available and using a mobile phone is the predominant means of payment.

The rst 15 minutes of parking in municipal parking areas are free of charge if you indicate the starting time using a parking clock.

Tallinn:

Old Town (Vanalinn): the most expensive parking zone with limited parking spaces. The Old Town is mostly a car-free area where driving is not recommended. Parking restrictions apply 24/7 with no exceptions. See the zone map and rates.

Downtown (Südalinn): slightly less expensive than the Old Town zone. Parking restrictions apply 24/7 with no exceptions. See the zone map and rates.

City centre (Kesklinn): the largest and least expensive zone in the centre of Tallinn. Parking restrictions apply on weekdays from 07:00 to 19:00 and on Saturdays from 08:00 to 15:00. On Sundays, parking is free (not applicable to public holidays unless they fall on a Sunday).

Parking nes are placed under wiper blades or otherwise attached to windshields.

Unpaid parking fees will eventually result in a payment request by a collection agency (unpaid parking fees plus collection charges)

For information on parking nes go to parkimine.ee

Parking garages have a blue sign with a large white “P”. When parking spaces are available, a green sign or “vaba” (“free”) is shown. When the garage is full, a red sign is lit.

Use the entrance marked “sisse” (“entrance”). In most cases, you have to take the parking ticket with you and pay at the parking machine before returning to your car. Your paid ticket is valid for a short time (usually ten minutes).

7. HEALTHCARE

Where to get more information

Please see a thorough printed booklet explaining the details of the healthcare system in Estonia, including what to do with di erent health issues or sicknesses. tervisekassa.ee/en/infomaterjal/healthcare-estonia-2023

The Estonian health care system is built on mandatory health insurance based on the principle of solidarity and the overall availability of services. Funding for the Estonian health care system is based on the Health Insurance Fund (EE: ). The Health Insurance Fund is a state institution which receives funds from the state budget. The medical costs of all the people that work or have sickness insurance in Estonia are covered by the Health Insurance Fund.

Detailed lists of those covered by the Health Insurance Fund are available on the website tervisekassa.ee/en/infomaterjalid

Third country nationals who do not qualify for health insurance provided by the Fund, are required to purchase a health insurance policy from a private insurance provider. This needs to be done before you apply for a residence permit. In case you DO qualify for Estonian Health Insurance, you do not need to buy private health insurance at the time you apply for a residence permit.

The Medical Counselling Advice Line 1220 provides 24/7 medical advice (calling from abroad, dial +372 630 4107; e-mail noustamine@1220.ee). Services are provided around the clock in Estonian and Russian, and between 15.00-17.00 in English. The caller’s person is not identi ed, and individuals without sickness insurance may also call for advice.

7.1. FAMILY DOCTORS AND SPECIALIZED DOCTORS

Each Estonian resident must have a family physician, a GP, general practitioner (EE: ). The family physician is your rst point of contact with any health issues or other problems concerning health when you need medical aid. The family physician knows you and your medical history and will refer you to specialized care when necessary. You get to choose your family physician. You also have the right to change your family physician if you wish. Before choosing a family physician, it is recommended to meet the future doctor to get an idea of whether the speci c doctor suits you.

The number of patients serviced by one family physician is limited. Looking for a new family physician, you need to choose a doctor who has vacancies in their patient list.

How should you go about choosing a family physician?

As a rule, family physicians work in family physician centres which are located all over Estonia. You can contact and enquire about vacancies in family physicians’ patient lists from the Health Insurance Fund (they also respond in English and Russian) contacts found on tervisekassa.ee

You might encounter a language barrier so make sure to nd out whether the family physician you want speaks the foreign language of your choice. PAY ATTENTION!

When you have found you a family physician whose o ice is close to where you live and who has vacant spots on their patient list, you must complete an application to register with the family physician. The application form (in Estonian) is also available on the Health Insurance Fund´s website tervisekassa.ee

Specialized doctors are doctors who are specialized in a given eld (e.g. eye doctor, internist, ear, nose and throat doctors etc.). A specialized doctor can help you with more speci c problems. You need your family physician’s referral to see a specialized doctor. Therefore, the family physician is also your rst point of contact when you need a specialized doctor. If you visit a specialized doctor as a registered patient and you are funded by the Health Insurance Fund, the visit fee of the specialist may be just up to €5. As an alternative, you may see a private doctor. In this case, the visit fee depends on the price list of the relevant clinic.

Queues for specialized doctor appointments are often long (sometimes it takes months to get to see a doctor). Patients can also book a paid appointment or an appointment with a private doctor. In such a case, you will most likely get to see a doctor in less time. In general, there is no signi cant di erence in the quality of medical services between those funded by the state or privately.

7.2. ONLINE MEDICAL SERVICES

Did you know?

According to di erent estimations, 60%-70% of primary care visits can be conducted virtually. So, in Estonia telemedicine is also gaining popularity. Two major online telemedicine providers are Minudoc and Viveo.

Minudoc is an Estonian health teleconsultation platform, which aims to provide on-demand quality primary and secondary level healthcare advice. Minudoc platform involves only licensed health specialists. Everyone can log in and select a time for an appointment with a particular specialist. See more at minudoc.ee

Viveo Health combines its telemedicine service with insurance by the company. It has a cooperation network across Estonia that can help to identify the losses of insurance clients and assist them in self-diagnoses. It is a platform that provides customers immediate access to the doctors (online and o line). This insurance is provided by employers and is considered a private health insurance. See more at viveohealth.com

7.3. HOSPITALS

For specialized doctor service and general hospital treatment, refer to your family doctor who will issue a corresponding referral.

The biggest hospitals in Estonia are:

• The North Estonia Medical Center (PERH) regionaalhaigla.ee

• East-Tallinn Central Hospital itk.ee

• West-Tallinn Central Hospital keskhaigla.ee

• Tallinn Children’s Hospital lastehaigla.ee

• Tartu University Hospital kliinikum.ee

• Jõgeva Hospital jogevahaigla.ee

• Narva Hospital narvahaigla.ee

• Viljandi Hospital vmh.ee

• South-Estonian Hospital leh.ee

• Pärnu Hospital ph.ee

7.4. DENTAL CARE

In most cases, the Health Insurance Fund does not cover dental care, but there are exceptions here.

Free dental care is available for:

Children and youth of up to 18 years of age

People who need emergency care provided when postponing aid or not providing aid may cause the death or permanent health damage of the patient

Free dental care is only available by dentists that are on the Health Insurance Fund list. The list is available on the Health Insurance Fund’s website at tervisekassa.ee

If you need dental care, contact a dentist of your choice and book an appointment. In bigger cities, dentists generally speak Russian or English, but it is always useful to check whether the doctor of your choice speaks a language you can understand tervisekassa.ee/inimesele/arsti-ja-oendusabi/ tervisekassa-lepingupartnerid/perearstid.

All people with State Health Insurance are eligible for a €60 refund of dental care costs per year, provided that the patient has covered at least 50% of the total cost of the treatment themselves. Certain compensation (from € 105 per year) is also available to the following:

Retired people

Pregnant women

Mothers of children of less than 1 year of age

People who have an increased need for dental care as a result of the health care service provided to them.

7.5. EMERGENCY CARE

If you require rst aid quickly but are still able to walk or there is someone that can transport you, you can refer to a centre of emergency medical care (called EMO in Estonian, i.e. the emergency department (ED)). Such centres are open around the clock and are located in hospitals. You should always be aware of where the nearest hospital and its EMO is.

Did you know?

Everyone has the right to receive emergency medical care in Estonia regardless of whether they have health insurance.

Emergency medical aid is provided by EMOs at bigger hospitals (see the list of bigger hospitals in the previous chapter). There will be a small consultation fee, and if you are hospitalised, the in-patient fee is up to 2.50 EUR per day. If you cannot refer to an EMO yourself, you can call an ambulance by dialling 112. Ambulance (EE: ) transport is free. Calling the medical counselling advice line 1220, which provides 24/7 medical advice by phone, before calling an ambulance, is recommended if your health issue is less severe.

Call an ambulance if there has been an accident or a similar event where a person is unable or cannot safely refer to an EMO on their own. Make sure to call an ambulance at the rst opportunity if the situation is life-threatening!

7.6. EU HEALTH INSURANCE CARD

The EU health insurance card grants EU citizens access to the healthcare of the destination country. For instance, if you are insured in Estonia and temporarily staying in another EU country, the EU health insurance card provide you with the same healthcare as possessed by insured people in that country. You will still have to pay any self-liability fees that apply so travel insurance is always a good idea. You can order your free EU health insurance card from eesti.ee or read more about the EU health insurance card on the Health Insurance Fund website at tervisekassa.ee

EU health insurance card

Forgot who your doctor is or what they prescribed you? Terviseportaal (terviseportaal.ee) is a health portal (also available in English) that lets you access medical data that health care service providers have submitted about you (referrals, prescriptions, etc.). You can log in using your ID-card, Mobile-ID or Smart-ID. See more in the e-services chapter.

7.7. TERVISEPORTAAL HEALTH PORTAL

7.8. PHARMACIES

Pharmacies are usually open from around 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pharmacies in shopping centres are open until the shopping centre closes (often at 9 p.m.)

Certain pharmacies in Tallinn and Tartu are open 24/7.

Tõnismägi 5

Vikerlase 19

Tartu

Town Hall Square – Town Hall

Medications available in a pharmacy are divided into two categories: over the counter and prescription medication. Everyone can buy over the counter medication in unlimited amounts (with a few exceptions) similarly to any other consumer goods. However, you would need a prescription to buy prescription medication.

You will get the prescription from a doctor. A prescription prescribes the medication you need in the necessary amount which you can buy from a pharmacy. Estonia mostly uses digital prescriptions i.e. the doctor enters your prescription information in a digital database. You may go to any given pharmacy, give the pharmacist your ID-card, and purchase the prescription medication prescribed to you.

You can also buy someone else’s prescription medication. For this, you need to give the pharmacist the personal ID code of the actual owner of the prescription. You will also need to provide your own ID card – your person will also be identi ed. See more on digital prescriptions in chapter 5.5. in this handbook.

Tallinn

7.9. COVID-19 PANDEMIC

COVID-19 was rst diagnosed in Estonia in the winter of early 2020. To stop the spread of the virus, a state of national emergency in healthcare was declared and several restrictions were placed on everyday life activities, regional travel, and tourism. Information on acts, laws, and restrictions adopted in Estonia during and after the COVID-19 pandemic can be found on the website kriis.ee

Description and infection statistics of the COVID-19 virus, health guidelines for the public and medical personnel can be found on the website of Estonian Health Board terviseamet.ee

Hotline 1247 provides information on issues related to COVID-19. The hotline is available 24/7 and it is free of charge for the callers. PAY ATTENTION!

Testing for COVID-19 is available as an out-of-pocket payment through private health service providers, such as Synlab minu.synlab.ee. You can also yourself do a rapid test that you can purchase in most pharmacies and bigger supermarkets. Having always at least one available at home would be a good preparation!

8. MEDIA

Kus kõnelejaid, seal kuulajaid.

If there is a speaker, there shall be listeners

Media consumption is shifting more and more towards digital media. Websites and online television channels are becoming the primary choice for Estonians to watch the news and obtain information. The percentage of mobile devices (smartphones and tablets) in media consumption is growing, yet traditional media - television, radio, and the printed press - is still going strong.

The primary human need is to be informed.

8.1. TELEVISION

Estonian Public Broadcasting (EE: ) is a public service media organization. ERR has three TV channels – ETV, ETV2, and ETV+.

Most popular private channels are Kanal2 and TV3.

ETV2’s programming consists of cultural and educational broadcasts, documentaries, TV shows, and movies. It has a special daily children’s program as well as some programming in Russian, including a daily news broadcast. See more at etv2.err.ee

ETV+ is a state funded Russian-language TV channel. See more at etvpluss.err.ee

8.2. RADIO

Estonian Public Broadcasting (ERR) o ers four di erent radio channels in Estonian (Vikerraadio, Raadio2, Klassikaraadio, Raadio Tallinn) and one in Russian (Raadio4). In addition to public radio, Estonia has several private broadcasters. Among the biggest radio broadcasters are Sky Media Group and Trio LSL Radio Group.

Marju Lauristin Politician

For a list of radio stations streaming live on the internet, visit liveonlineradio.net

Newspapers and magazines play an important role in Estonia. There are three daily nationwide newspapers (Postimees, Eesti Päevaleht, and Õhtuleht), and nine weekly newspapers (Eesti Ekspress and Maaleht being the most popular). Regional papers are published across Estonia. For an exhaustive list of newspapers in Estonia, go to the Estonian Media Companies´ website at meedialiit.ee

Estonian and international newspapers and magazines are sold in bigger shopping centres and R-kiosks. Most newspapers also have online versions. Full access to the content usually requires a subscription that costs around 10 euros per month.

Local media in English and Russian:

There are several channels that publish local news in English and Russian. Most popular ones include the following:

Estonian Public Broadcasting news in English (news.err.ee) and Russian (rus.err.ee)

Postimees (daily newspaper) in English (news.postimees.ee) and Russian (rus.postimees.ee)

DELFI news in Russian (rus.del .ee)

The Baltic Times covers news from Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in English (baltictimes.com)

Baltic News Service covers news from the Baltics in English and Russian (requires subscription, bns.ee)

Business daily (Delovõje Vedomosti) in Russian (dv.ee)

Local newspaper MK Estonia in Russian (mke.ee)

For news outlets targeted speci cally for foreigners, see the Estonian World at estonianworld.com

For a list of di erent social media groups (both in English and in Russian), that are used mainly among the foreigners living in Estonia, see the handbook on networking, volunteering and leisure time. 8.3. NEWSPAPERS

9. OTHER SERVICES

Õnnetus ei hüüa tulles!

An accident does not shout when it comes

9.1. EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBER 112

A single 24/7 emergency telephone number throughout Estonia is 112.

112 is the European emergency telephone number, available everywhere in the EU free of charge. You can call 112 using a landline or a mobile phone to contact any emergency service: the ambulance, the re department, or the police. You can also call 112 if there is no reception of your mobile connection network when you remove the SIM card from your phone..

If your mobile connection network is busy, remove the SIM card from your phone and then dial 112!

Call the emergency telephone number 112 only when the help is needed QUICKLY because someone’s life, health, property, or the environment is in danger. Explain to your children when and how to call the emergency telephone number 112.

Call the emergency number 112 for example:

You want to report a breach of public order, crime or tra ic accident and you need the police urgently;

There has been an accident and someone’s life or health is in danger and they need urgent medical help;

A re is breaking out or has broken out.

Rules to follow when you call the emergency number:

Say what has happened as brie y and clearly as you can, say where it has happened and say your name;

Stay calm and answer the operator’s questions;

Try to remember and tell the operator a detailed description of the people (man/woman, presumed age, height, clothing), vehicles (license plate number, make, colour) and other circumstances associated with the event;

Do not hang up before the operator says you can do so.

The Emergency Response Centre also helps people in matters that do not involve danger to life, health, or property. In this case, you may need to call the State helpline 1247 - for example for the rescue service (rescue works, explosive ordnance disposal etc.), the environmental emergencies or the road information.

Where to get more information

For more information on the emergency number 112 and State helpline 1247 go to the Emergency Response Center’s website at 112.ee

9.2. POSTAL SERVICES

Omniva (formerly Eesti Post) is the Estonian national postal service provider with post o ices across Estonia. Post o ices are open on weekdays and some of them on Saturdays with opening hours varying greatly. For information about post o ices and opening hours, go to Omniva website at omniva.ee

9.2.1. Mailing a letter

Public mailboxes in Estonia are orange, located outside of all post o ices, in shopping centres, and at most gas stations. To send mail, put letters and postcards in any o icial orange Omniva mailbox. Pick up times are noted on each box.

Within Estonia, letters are delivered within one working day as from mailing them. Mail is delivered daily from Monday to Saturday, except on holidays. The cost of sending a standard letter or card within Estonia is around 1 euro while sending a registered letter (trackable and delivered personally when signed for) costs around 4 euros.

Internationally, most letters take between one to three days to arrive within the Baltic and Nordic countries and up to a week to other countries. You can buy stamps and envelopes at post o ices, kiosks, and most grocery stores.

Use a zip code when addressing letters. Zipcodes for all Estonian localities and permitted measurements, prices, and instructions for sending a letter are provided on Omniva website.

9.2.2. Parcel services

There are several parcel terminals provided by Itella, Omniva, and DPD in most shopping centres for sending and receiving small and medium-sized packages conveniently, including when shopping online. The fees for sending a package through a package terminal usually remain between 2-7 euros, depending on the size (height) of the package. For larger items, couriers and home-delivery are used. Courier services are provided by all three companies (Itella, Omniva, DPD) as well as CargoBus and others.

9.3. WASTE MANAGEMENT

The goal of Estonian waste management is to recycle as many leftover materials or waste as possible. The most important aspect is to avoid the creation of waste. If waste has been created, it should be reused as raw material. It is also important to reduce the environmental hazards arising from waste.

If you do not know where to take certain special waste, you can use the Google Maps based search engine kuhuviia.ee to locate the nearest waste plant or ask from your local municipality.

9.3.1.

Packaging

The producer is responsible for the packaging. This means that a business selling their packaged goods in Estonia is obligated to guarantee the collection and necessary treatment of the relevant packaging waste. To achieve this goal, packaging organisations have been established to assure the national collection of packages and reuse of packaging to the maximum possible extent.

A deposit amount applies to packaging of light alcoholic beverages and soft drinks. Bottles and cans with the relevant logo can be returned to reverse vending machines. Reverse vending machines are usually situated near major stores and supermarkets. After returning a package you are refunded the deposit for the speci c package.

Did you know?

Making a new aluminium can from raw material uses as much energy as provided by 2.2 litres of gasoline.

But did you know this too?

The amount of energy saved by reusing one aluminium can is enough to watch three hours of TV.

9.4. LEGAL COUNSELLING

Legal assistance is provided by legal bureaus, law o ices and notaries. In cooperation with the Ministry of Justice, HUGO.legal is providing legal aid for free and at a lower price. All people living in Estonia whose average gross income does not exceed 1,200 euros (2000 euros regarding family cases dealing with child´s rights) are eligible for 2 hours of free legal aid. See more at the website hugo.legal

Other institutions provide free legal assistance as well. These include the following:

Legal Services O ice (EE: ) provides free legal assistance for underprivileged people and people in special needs in Tallinn, Tartu, Jõhvi and several other Estonian cities. See more at otb.ee

Senior people are given free legal assistance in Tallinn, Tartu, Pärnu, Rakvere, Jõgeva and Jõhvi and several other Estonian cities by the Estonian Association of Pensioners’ Societies. See more at eakad.ee

Legal assistance in family matters is given via the Union for Child Welfare. See more at lastekaitseliit.ee

Free legal assistance for disabled people is provided by the Estonian Chamber of Disabled People. See more at epikoda.ee

9.6. PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Disability is the loss of or an abnormality in an anatomical, physiological, or mental structure or function of a person which in conjunction with di erent relational and environmental restrictions prevents participation in the social life on equal bases with others.

The state pays social bene ts to disabled people if they have additional expenses because of their disability, e.g. they need assistance, care, or medical rehabilitation, or their additional expenses are related to transport, employment, or studies.

The aim of granting social bene ts to disabled people is to support their ability to cope independently, support their social integration and provide equal opportunities through partial compensation for additional expenses caused by the disability.

Social welfare aims to help disabled people and their families to prevent, eliminate, or ease di iculties in coping and contribute to social security, development, and integration into society.

Where to get more information

Regarding social bene ts, see the website of Social Insurance Board at sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee

Additional information is available on the website of Estonian Chamber of Disabled People at epikoda.ee

A person taking care of a disabled child or family member has the right to equal treatment. For more information on equal rights, see volinik.ee

LIST OF REFERENCES

O icial guides and gateways:

Destination Estonia – Relocation Guide: Compilation of practical info for new arrivals in Estonia

workinestonia.com/coming-to-estonia/relocation-guide/ e-Estonia Portal: eesti.ee – gateway to all government information and public e-services.

Settle in Estonia: settleinestonia.ee – Your guide to settling in Estonia

Roadmap for coming to Estonia: euraxess.ee/estonia/information-assistance/entryconditions-and-residence-permits-estonia/roadmap-visas-entry

Visit Estonia: visitestonia.com - gateway to travel and sights in Estonia

Study in Estonia: studyinestonia.ee gateway to higher education in Estonia

Research in Estonia: researchinestonia.eu — information and news about research activities in Estonia.

Found in Estonia: foundinestonia.ee — bi-weekly podcast sharing stories of people who have moved to Estonia.

Ministries and other institutions:

Ministry of Education and Research: hm.ee/en – education, research and Estonian language.

Ministry of Social A airs: sm.ee/en – health care, labour, social services.

Ministry of Culture: kul.ee/en — information about the state’s culture, sports, arts and heritage conservation activities.

Ministry of Justice: just.ee/en – legal and criminal policy of the state.

Ministry of the Interior: siseministeerium.ee/en – citizenship, migration, identi cation documents and internal security.

Ministry of Foreign A airs: vm.ee/en – security, business diplomacy and human rights.

Estonian Ministry of Economic A airs and Communications: mkm.ee — economy, entrepreneurship, business-academic cooperation.

The Integration Foundation: integratsioon.ee/en – information about adaptation in Estonia, adaptation programme Settle in Estonia, Estonian language courses, citizenship and Estonian Language houses etc.

Estonian Institute: estinst.ee/en/ – information about Estonian society and culture.

EURES: eures.ee/en – pan-European network for job-seekers.

Unemployment Fund: tootukassa.ee/eng – o icial website of Eesti Töötukassa, which administers the social insurance provisions related to unemployment, and organises labour market services.

Pension Centre: pensionikeskus.ee- information about the Estonian pension system.

Police and Border Guard Board: politsei.ee/en – legal basis for staying in Estonia, identity documents, citizenship.

Police and Border Guard Board Migration Advisors: politsei.ee/en/migration-consultants – free legal advice by PBGB personal advisors about di erent legal grounds to live in Estonia and the necessary documentation.

Emergency contacts: 112 - 24/7 emergency telephone number for ambulance, police and rescue workers.

1247 – State helpline for trustworthy governmental information, state measures on coronavirus, psychological rst aid to all in need.

116 006 – Victim support helpline assistance to people who have fallen victim to an o ence, negligence, or mistreatment or experienced physical, psychological, economic, or sexual violence.

KEYWORDS

1220 – The Medical Counselling Advice Line o ers medical advice (calling from abroad, dial +372 630 4107). 24/7 in Estonian and Russian, between 15.00-17.00 in English servies