We invite everyone to join us on Friday, 8 August 2025 at 4.30 p.m. in Paide, at the Culture Area of the Opinion Festival, to seek answers to the following question: ‘A newly arrived immigrant today – an Estonian tomorrow?’

In the discussion organised by the Integration Foundation, we will focus on how and when a newly arrived immigrant becomes a full-fledged member of society. Who decides when a ‘stranger’ can become ‘one of us’? How long does one need to live in Estonia to be considered Estonian – or is that even possible?

In the discussion, we will explore what brings people to Estonia and how it will impact our community, elections, and identity over the next 10–15 years. We will also discuss how ready the Estonian society and the state are to welcome and integrate new arrivals.

The roundtable discussion will feature Dmitri Moskovtsev, Director of the Integration Foundation; Mart Kallas, Representative of the Conservative People’s Party of Estonia; Tiit Tammaru, Professor of Population Geography at the University of Tartu; Ain Käpp, Chairperson of the Labour Market working group of the Estonian Employers’ Confederation; Mari-Liis Jakobson, Associate Professor of Political Sociology at Tallinn University. The discussion will be moderated by ERR journalist Johannes Tralla.

INTRODUCTIONS

Ain Käpp is the CEO and co-owner of the operating company behind Palace Hotel Tallinn and Radisson Collection Hotel, Tallinn. He chairs the Labour Market working group of the Estonian Employers’ Confederation and contributes as a board member of the Estonian Hotel and Restaurant Association. With over 30 years of experience in the hotel industry, he has focused on creating exceptional hospitality and developing strong teams. Ain believes that everyone who contributes to Estonia’s development deserves a sense of belonging and appreciation.

Mart Kallas is a columnist and opinion leader, as well as a member of the Conservative People’s Party of Estonia, and is known for his national conservative views. His views focus on preserving Estonia’s identity as a nation state and cultural continuity, as well as offering a critical perspective on immigration and integration issues. Mart will raise the question of how many newly arrived immigrants should Estonia accept and in what way, as well as whether and under what conditions a ‘stranger’ can become ‘one of us’.

Tiit Tammaru is a professor of Urban and Population Geography at the University of Tartu. He studies immigration, urbanisation, and social integration, providing a research-based perspective on how a sense of belonging develops and which factors influence the integration of immigrants.

Mari-Liis Jakobson is a political scientist and sociologist at Tallinn University who researches citizenship, immigration, and political participation. She focuses on how newly arrived immigrants become ‘our people’ and what role the state, communities, and democracy play in this process.

Dmitri Moskovtsev is the director of the Integration Foundation, who is working on practical solutions to support the integration of newly arrived immigrants and minority groups. His work focuses on how a ‘stranger’ can become ‘one of us’ through language learning, community engagement, and collaboration.

We invite everyone interested to join the conversation and share their thoughts and opinions – because it is through collective discussion that we shape what Estonia’s capacity for belonging and integration will look like in the future.

Join our Facebook event as well: https://fb.me/e/6DbRvKAYc

Starting from August and September, ten Estonian language and culture clubs will start meeting across different parts of Estonia. These meetings are held in various districts of Tallinn, as well as Ida-Viru County, Tartu, and Pärnu. They are meant for adults who would like to take their Estonian skills to the next level and feel more confident speaking the language.

The clubs are intended for adults (from the age of 18) who have completed an Estonian language course or successfully passed a level B1, B2, or C1 language exam. Each club has a maximum of 20 members. Only people who have not joined the clubs formed by the Integration Foundation in 2023, 2024, or during the first half of 2025 can become a member of the club.

Instead of traditional language lessons, the clubs offer diverse and inclusive meetings. Members will have the opportunity to practise Estonian in a more relaxed atmosphere, meet native Estonian guest speakers, engage in discussions about current and everyday topics, and take part in field trips to different culturally enriching destinations. These meetings create a natural language environment and help members overcome language barriers.

Members meet once a week and there are a total of 30 meetings over the course of the year, six of which are field trips.

The aim of the Estonian language and culture clubs is to keep the Estonian language alive and growing, to strengthen ties to the Estonian culture, and to provide support for individuals seeking to integrate more fully into society. The club helps members gain greater confidence in their language skills and deepen their understanding of Estonian life, culture and its people.

You can sign up for the clubs starting on 24 July at 2 p.m.

1) Tallinn https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15501 Organised by Estonian Open Air Museum

2) Tallinn https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15513 Organised by Tallinn Folk High School

3) Tallinn  https:// iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15511  Organised by  1-koolitus MTÜ

4) Tallinn  https:// iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15512  Organised by  1-koolitus MTÜ

5)Tartu https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15504 Organised by Algus OÜ

6) Tartu https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15502 Organised by Tartu Folk High School

7) Pärnu https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15505 Organised by Algus OÜ

8) Jõhvi https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15498 Organised by Kersti Võlu Koolituskeskus OÜ

9) Narva I https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15499 Organised by Kersti Võlu Koolituskeskus OÜ

10) Narva II https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15500 Organised by Kersti Võlu Koolituskeskus OÜ

The club is funded from sub-activity 3.4.4.1 ‘Development and provision of a language practice environment and support solutions for language learning’ of project No. 2021-2027.4.07.23-0006 ‘Activities supporting Estonian language learning and civic education’, funded by the European Social Fund+.

We welcome a total of 832 adults who have lived in Estonia for at least five years or who have returned to Estonia to attend free Estonian language courses, specialised, and level courses. Registration for specialised courses starts on Wednesday, 16 July, at 10 a.m. and for level courses on Wednesday, 13 August, at 10 a.m. in the self-service environment of the Integration Foundation.

General information

We offer opportunities for adults who have lived in Estonia for at least five years or have returned here to learn Estonian as this helps with comprehensive integration. We focus on developing the skills necessary for communicating in Estonian and combine language learning with getting to know the Estonian culture. Learning opportunities include free Estonian language courses at levels A1, A2, B1.1, and B1.2, specialised Estonian language courses, activities supporting language learning, and independent study.

In addition, we invite newcomers, permanent residents and returnees to specialised courses that help to develop their Estonian language skills in a specific field and support the everyday use of the language. For example, you can take a writing course, a spoken language course, and courses that support communication and introduce Estonian culture. Courses take place online or on-site in Narva and Tallinn. There are 13 courses to choose from, starting in August and September of this year (240 places in total).

For more information on language learning and practice opportunities for adults who have lived here for at least five years or who have returned here, we publish on the website, where you can register for a course.

Specialised Estonian language courses

From 16 July at 10 a.m., newcomers, permanent residents and returnees can register for specialised courses that help to develop their Estonian language skills in a specific field and support the everyday use of the language. Newcomers can choose one suitable special course. Permanent residents and returnees can choose one suitable special course and/or a language course at level A1–B1.2. For example, you can take a writing course, a spoken language course, a pronunciation course, and courses that support communication and introduce Estonian culture. Courses take place online or on-site in Narva and Tallinn. There are 13 courses to choose from, starting in in August and September of this year (225 places in total). Registration will be opened in the self-service environment.

Estonian language courses starting in August 2025

Starting on 13 August at 10 a.m., 832 adults who have lived in Estonia for at least five years or have returned here can register for Estonian language communication courses to learn how to communicate in both oral and written form at the beginner (A1 and A2) and intermediate (B1.1 and B1.2) levels. We open 53 study groups in the Estonian Language Houses and in cooperation with language schools, where you can start learning Estonian in August, September, October, or November. You can study online or on-site in various regions of Estonia (e.g. in Narva, Jõhvi, Tartu and Tallinn).
You can choose the group of communication courses that suits you best, based on your language level, time of the course and location (web or city). Each learner can only participate once in a communication course of the same level.

Students will have to participate in study group classes and learn independently. Examples of the latter are various homework tasks, whether for learning words or reviewing what has been learned in class, for learning storytelling, for writing texts or for communication practice in a language and/or e-learning environment (Keeleklikk, Keeletee, …). Registration will be opened in the self-service environment.

Newcomers can choose one suitable special course. Permanent residents and returnees can choose one suitable special course and/or a language course at level A1–B1.2.

Specialised courses in the Estonian Language House (registration begins 16th of July in self-service)

Level courses (registration begins 13th of August in self-service)

Level courses in the Estonian Language House (registration begins 13th of August in self-service)

When registering for the courses offered, please keep the following in mind:

• To find the right level course for you, we recommend that you pre-select on the basis of three aspects: the name of the service, the level of the service, and the location. This pre-selection will help you to find and sign up for courses of interest more quickly. You cannot attend the same level course again.
• To register for a specialised course, you need to select “specialised course” as the service and choose the most suitable service from the list.
• Registration will remain open if there are places available and closes the day before the course starts.
• Registering for any course comes with an obligation to study diligently all the way through the course, actively participate in lessons, and learn independently. You can cancel your registration and withdraw from the course up to one day before the course starts. 
• We no longer offer Estonian language courses at level B2 and C1. We offer opportunities for advanced language learners to develop their language skills on our specialised courses and language support activities. You can also get the relevant information and register at our self-service.

Registration in December

We will announce the exact date of registration for December on our website and social media at the beginning of December.

Additional information

If you have any questions, please contact us at info@integratsiooniinfo.ee (Mon.–Thur. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.). 

The ‘Eesti amps’ series of collaborative events to support Estonian language learning will take place in 2025 bringing together adults learning Estonian and volunteer language tutors. The aim of the series is to provide immediate and varied language practice opportunities through which participants will discover Estonian culture, history and everyday life.

‘Eesti amps’ is for adults who do not yet speak Estonian well enough, but want to use it with confidence and apply their language skills in everyday life. Meetings take place in a creative, supportive and friendly environment, where language use comes naturally – through action, communication and discussion. There will be a total of 15 participants in each group: Ten Estonian language learners and five Estonian language volunteers to interact with the participants and support their language development along with communication skills.

All cooperation activities are based on the principle that language is best learned by working together. Each meeting is accompanied by practical worksheets, diary assignments and volunteer Estonian speakers to support communication.

Each series of activities consists of ten meetings that combine Estonian language, culture, history, literature and everyday life. Together with language learners, in each group will also be volunteer language tutors (native Estonian speakers or at least with a C1 language level), who will encourage language practice and support communication.

‘Eesti amps’ offers small but meaningful pieces of Estonian culture and language that will help language users feel as a part of our common history.

Vabamu: stories of freedom, resistance and democracy

In Tallinn, collaborative activities will be carried out by the Vabamu Museum, where meetings focus on Estonia’s recent history, the functioning of democracy, misinformation, the meaning of freedom and human rights. The topics are explored through museum lessons, discussions, playful exercises and practical work.

Participants will discover personal stories, visit exhibitions and take part in creative activities. Each meeting uses methodologies that support active participation and the confident use of Estonian language.

Jõhvi Central Library: Estonian cultural image in Ida-Viru County

In Ida-Viru County, the Jõhvi Central Library offers cooperation activities, where language learning is integrated with visual arts, literature, music, heritage and theatre. Each lesson focuses on one of Estonia’s cultural phenomena, such as Estonian sculpture, folk clothing or cinematography.

Participants will create their own mini sculptures, learn to play folk music instruments, direct short films and learn about different aspects of Estonian cultural history. Each meeting is practical and supports active communication, creativity and linguistic expression.

Rakvere Library: environment, movement and community

In Lääne-Viru County, Rakvere Library is hosting ‘Eesti amps’ meetings, focusing on community, nature awareness and heritage culture. Activities will take place both in the city and in nature: participants will visit a waste recovery exhibition, take part in a dance celebration, a medicinal plants workshop, a ceramics club, nature walks as well as cultural and historical tours. The series will end with a film night and a cooking session, which will give an opportunity to reach conclusions and share experiences.

The activities are funded by sub-activity No. 3.4.4.5 ‘Launching cooperation and language camps for adults and other activities supporting language learning and the use of Estonian’ within the framework of project No. 2021-2027.4.07.23-0006 ‘Activities supporting Estonian language learning and civic education’ financed by the European Social Fund+.

“Estonia has been home from the day I landed,” says Hira Wajahat Malik, a doctoral student and junior researcher at the Estonian Business School (EBS), who moved to Estonia two years ago in October. What she experienced and saw here quickly dispelled all the preconceptions she had about Estonia.

“I was expecting Estonia to be loud, not very clean, and difficult to integrate or connect with people without learning the language. I somehow had other European countries I have visited in mind and assumed Estonia would be like that too,” Hira recalls her first thoughts before moving here.

However, the warm welcome she received from EBS colleagues and other people she met proved otherwise. “On the contrary, I arrived in a young and innovative country that is bold and open to new ideas and has accepted me as one of its own. What I love about the culture here is people accept you and appreciate you for your intellect and the value and experience you bring to the table, regardless of where you are from,” she says.

Research for making a difference 

In her home country, Pakistan, Hira worked as a partner at a consulting firm focused on impact and innovation. She collaborated with various organizations, businesses, development agencies like the Asian Development Bank, World Bank, and World Wildlife Fund, as well as governments. Projects she worked on were related to climate change, social innovation, and creating positive impact. Parallelly, Hira taught at a university and coached companies on sustainable business practices.

After more than ten years of intensive work in the consulting business, she felt it was time to pursue a doctoral degree. “While making applications I came across an opportunity at the Estonian Business School that matched my interests. When I was admitted for the program, it just seemed appropriate to make the move from Pakistan to Estonia,” she explains the motivation behind this life-changing decision.

In addition to her research, she now teaches at the Bachelors and Masters level and has already worked on different projects. For instance, she has had the opportunity to work on projects with organisations like Estonian Cleantech Association and RoheTiiger.

Support from friends and the state

“Sure it takes a bit of getting used to moving to a country that is 20 times smaller than your city,” she says, however, adding that the peace, safety, and healthy environment made it feel like home very soon.

She has received significant support in settling into her new home from colleagues and other Estonians—both locals and recent newcomers—but most of the information necessary for adapting came from the national adaptation program Settle in Estonia.

“While other expat friends were able to provide experiential input, following the process and instructions detailed through Integration Foundation and Settle in Estonia was the easiest way for me to get access to services and support I needed and adapt swiftly to life in Estonia,” she highlights the benefits of the program created for newcomers.

The power of learning the language

Hira started to learn Estonian via the adaptation program as well. She notes that being able to learn the language has empowered her significantly, whether it is trying to connect with her students or while travelling to cities outside of Tallinn where English may not be the preferred language of communication.

She recalls that her best experience was attending a doctoral conference that was in Estonian with simultaneous translation in English. “I found that I understood and enjoyed the talks more by listening to the speakers in Estonian rather than by translation. If it were not for the Settle in Estonia program it would not be possible.”

Hira encourages everyone moving to Estonia to actively participate in community life and not to be afraid to learn Estonian. “The best way to truly make the most of those opportunities and build a fulfilling life here is to give back as much as you receive. Giving back simply means putting your time, effort, and energy into the society you are joining. This isn't just about altruism; it's a powerful way to integrate, build connections, gain a deeper understanding of Estonian culture, and unlock the full potential of your experience,” she urges others on their adaptation journey.

Hira’s tips for a smooth adaptation in Estonia:

1. Don’t be shy to learn the language. Start learning as soon as you get the opportunity – you will get a lot more respect and acceptance from the locals. 
2. Actively participate in public events and activities like festivals, local markets, and community gatherings organized by local municipilaties, cultural centers, and community groups. 
3. Join professional associations, industry events or networking groups related to your field. 
4. Volunteer with different organizations, for example, for environmental cleanups or other cultural activities.  

Major events of the summer, including the Song and Dance Festival and ESTO 2025, will bring our compatriots together in Estonia from many countries around the world. Estonians, who have made their home abroad, will take to the Kalev Stadium and Song Festival Grounds. ESTO, or the 13th Global Estonian Cultural Days, helps strengthen the sense of belonging among Estonians. This awards the Integration Foundation an excellent opportunity to interact directly with representatives of foreign communities through the advisory service. We nurture our fellow Estonians’ links with Estonia; help them arrange meetings on site; introduce their projects on the www.globalestonian.com website; and participate in language camps.

Kaire Cocker, Head of Compatriots Service at the Integration Foundation, recalls:

I joined the Integration Foundation as a Compatriots’ Advisor in 2019, when more people of Estonian descent began to repatriate. We saw an exponential growth in demand for various services. The 100th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia likely influenced the trend, as it drew a lot of attention all over the world. 

Our government announced, a year later, that it is of strategic importance to maintain and strengthen contacts with our compatriots. The area that had been long and well managed by the Ministry of Culture was then transferred to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  At that time, we launched our close partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is going strong to this day. The Integration Foundation had already set up a separate Compatriots’ Counselling Service, which I was appointed to manage. We offer services in three main domains: we support and counsel those who return, support compatriots’ communities abroad, and keep in touch via the information portal at www.globalestonian.com.

The Estonian Diaspora Action Plan is implemented in cooperation with several ministries. We have made progress in supporting both fellow Estonians who return, as well as those who reside abroad, which is one of our important lines of action highlighted in the strategy statement of the foundation. As a result, we can provide even higher quality and more customised services than before. 

We are here to help at summer events

Speaking of this year’s plans, the major summer events will draw many compatriots to Estonia from all over the world, but for numerous activities within a short period. Since participants have a busy schedule, we try to be flexible – we will visit events whenever possible, meet with community representatives, and offer support and assistance as needed to ensure that everything goes smoothly and according to plan.

Groups of Estonian expatriates have made a tremendous effort to be able to perform at the Song and Dance Festival. Several of these groups make do without professional mentors at hand. Often, members of these collectives live in the same country but far apart from each other, which poses logistical and time-related challenges. It is hard to even imagine their challenges from our perspective. That is precisely why it is overwhelmingly meaningful for performers to make it to the Estonian Song and Dance Festival from abroad. This year, we are expecting nearly 70 groups from across the globe to sing and dance in Estonia.

We offer support throughout the year

On top of major summer events, we organise traditional expatriate camps and peer-to-peer meetings for those who have returned. At the meetings, participants mingle in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere, sharing personal experiences from their journeys back to Estonia. Camps play an especially important role among our younger expatriates. At the camp, we teach Estonian customs and traditions, brush up on Estonian, and help people rediscover their roots. This ensures some knowledge of local life, if some of the young people decide to stay in Estonia for longer.

Let’s keep an open mind

Looking at the bigger picture, I wish the Estonian people would keep an open mind towards their compatriots living abroad and those who return here for good. Everyone has their reason for moving abroad, be it studies, love, employment, or some other life event. We should be more tolerant towards all those who have decided to form stronger bonds with Estonia or even return to live here. They are our people, simply with new experiences!

Kaire Cocker, Head of Compatriots Service at the Integration Foundation