Adaptation programme
The adaptation programme Settle in Estonia is a free study programme developed by the Estonian state to helps recently arrived foreigners to adapt to local life faster and integrate into Estonian society. The activities necessary for the implementation of the adaptation programme are organised and developed by Integration Foundation.
In the answers to the questions below, we will outline who we expect to participate in the adaptation programme and what we would ask potential candidates to consider. For answers to further questions about the adaptation programme, please contact info@settleinestonia.ee.
What is the adaptation programme?
The Settle in Estonia programme consists of a series of training sessions that will provide you with the knowledge and skills that you need to settle: a comprehensive overview of life in Estonia, answers to interesting questions, and basic Estonian language skills. The conditions of participation (training, whether participation is mandatory, etc.) depend on your legal status in Estonia.
Who can take part in the adaptation programme?
You can take part in the adaptation programme if you have the following legal status:
- a foreigner who has been granted a temporary residence permit under ordinary migration procedures (link), on the basis of temporary protection (link), or on the basis of international protection (link)
- A citizen of the European Union who has been granted temporary right of residence (link)
- A family member of a citizen of the European Union who has been granted temporary right of residence (link).
You can participate in the modules of the program within five years after receiving the first residence permit or the temporary right of residence of a citizen of the European Union.
Who is required to participate in the adaptation programme?
Participation in the adaptation programme is mandatory for persons granted temporary or international protection in Estonia. For those who have been granted a temporary residence permit in Estonia under the ordinary migration procedure (e.g. residence permit for work, study, to live with a family member, etc.) or a temporary right of residence as a citizen of the European Union, participation in an adaptation programme is a good option, but not mandatory.
What can you learn in the modules of the adaptation programme?
If you have been granted temporary protection in Estonia, you will need to go through the following:
- basic module: essential information about the Estonian state and society (up to 8 academic hours);
- language module: Estonian language courses at levels A1 (100 academic hours), A2 (150 academic hours) or B1 (250 academic hours).
If you have been granted international protection in Estonia, you will need to go through the following:
- basic module: essential information about the Estonian state and society (up to 8 or 32 academic hours);
- language module: Estonian language courses at levels A1 (100 academic hours), A2 (150 academic hours) or B1 (250 academic hours).
If you have received an Estonian residence permit under the ordinary migration procedure (e.g. temporary residence permit for work, study, to stay with a family member, or temporary right of residence of a citizen of the European Union), you may be eligible for the following:
- thematic modules: you can find out more about the topics of the modules here (up to 8 academic hours);
- language modules: Estonian language courses at levels A1 (100 academic hours), A2 (150 academic hours) or B1 (250 academic hours).
How can I register for the adaptation programme?
You can find out more about the modules and the timetable of the adaptation programme and register for the training at www.settleinestonia.ee. To do this, you will need to create an account or sign in using your Mobile-ID, Smart-ID, or ID card. You will then be able to see the training courses available to you on your personal page, choose the one that suits you, and register.
Which legal act sets out the terms of the adaptation programme?
The regulation of the Minister of the Interior can be found here.
What does taking part in an adaptation programme give me?
Participation in the adaptation programme gives you a basic knowledge of Estonian. You will also get an overview of important topics, such as Estonian culture, traditions, education system, health care, legal system, and working conditions. It is also possible to acquire practical skills, such as how to open a bank account, find a job, use digital services, etc.
In addition, participation in the modules of the adaptation programme gives you the opportunity to meet other people coming to Estonia, share your experiences, and make new contacts.
Who organises the adaptation programme?
From 2023, the activities necessary for the implementation of the adaptation programme are organised and developed by the Integration Foundation. Britta Saks, manager of the field of adaptation who took over the work, explained the innovations that have taken place, the work in hand, and the near-term plans in an interview on the relevant topic (see link).
Where can I get more information?
Please visit www.settleinestonia.ee to find the timetable of the adaptation programme and register. You can find out about new training courses and other information about the adaptation programme on its Facebook page. For answers to further questions about the adaptation programme, please contact info@settleinestonia.ee.
