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Education in Estonia
Children in Estonia have a right to school, and adults can usually access language or integration courses. Contact the municipality early once you have an address.
Schools and language support in Estonia
Haigekassa: Automatic for employees, pensioners, students under 24. Others self-pay ~€180/quarter. Register a GP (perearst) — Free choice; find one via haigekassa.ee. Free visits, small meds co-pay. Free Estonian A1–B2: Settle in Estonia programme + Integratsioon SA courses, free with permit. Book online — settleinestonia.ee. Also free civic and family modules.
Enrolling children
Bring passports or ID, birth certificates, previous school documents, vaccination records if available, and proof of address. If documents are missing, still contact the school or municipality — children should not wait at home.
Adult language and integration courses
Learning Estonian makes appointments, work and school contact much easier. Ask integration offices, adult education centres, municipalities and NGOs about free or subsidised courses.
Education-related offices
Settle in Estonia: Free integration programme.
Frequently asked questions
Can my child start school before all documents are ready in Estonia?
Yes, schools and municipalities should help children enter education even while paperwork is being completed.
Which office should I contact first in Estonia?
Start with Settle in Estonia. For broader newcomer help, also check PPA — Politsei- ja Piirivalveamet, Maksu- ja Tolliamet, Haigekassa.
What language will offices use in Estonia?
The main administrative language is Estonian. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Do my children need documents to enrol in school?
Schools must enrol every child. If documents are missing, the municipality helps to sort it out — do not delay.
Can I study for free?
Public universities are free or low-cost for EU citizens and often for other residents after a qualifying period.