The programme in which Nargiza participated provides comprehensive support for learning Estonian and preparing for citizenship exams. Participants have access to language courses, materials for individual study, and counselling before the exams. Particular attention is paid to ensuring a flexible approach that allows participants to combine studies with work or family duties. The courses are held twice a year – from March to June and from September to December – and their main objective is to help each participant achieve the required level of knowledge.

Nargiza decided to study Estonian, realising that it is not just a formality for living in Estonia, but an important tool for communication and resolving everyday issues. She was motivated by the desire to communicate freely in shops, cafés, or when applying for services, as well as the opportunity to apply for a permanent residence permit and citizenship.

Having completed the B1 level courses within the programme, Nargiza successfully passed the exams on the first try. This step allowed her to feel more confident in everyday life. She notes that she already had more opportunities at this stage: “Now, I can at least explain myself if I need something, and it makes life a lot easier.”

Despite having two children, Nargiza was able to find time to study. While her youngest child was in kindergarten, Nargiza attended classes and at home, she read simple fairy tales in Estonian to her daughter. It was great practice for her. However, as Nargiza admits, it was not always easy. Working on her own turned out to be especially difficult. However, the programme provided all the necessary materials and support, which made the learning process much easier. The courses helped to structure knowledge, and consultations before the exams gave a clear understanding of the structure and requirements.

Nargiza paid particular attention to preparing for the exam on knowledge of the Constitution and legislation. She decided to study on her own and translated the texts to better understand the material and successfully pass the test.

Studying required effort and self-discipline, but Nargiza is sure that it is possible to reach a basic level of the language even with a busy schedule. “Even if you are short on time, an hour or two a week for courses and independent work is enough to master the basics,” she shares.

The programme turned out to be useful not only for learning the language but also for opening up new opportunities. Nargiza continues her studies at the B2 level to speak more fluently and discover more career prospects. She believes that the main thing is to get started, and the available courses, flexible schedules, and free materials make the learning process convenient for everyone who wants to learn Estonian.

Nargiza advises everyone who doubts their abilities or postpones learning to try, even if it seems like there is not enough time. “Start small. A well-organised programme, the support of specialists, and your desire will definitely lead to success. And most importantly, you will feel how new horizons are gradually opening up, which previously seemed unattainable.”

Nargiza was only able to undertake this journey thanks to regular practice, perseverance, and the support of the programme. Today, she continues to move forward, inspiring with her example those who are still just starting to learn Estonian.

For future Estonian citizens

The Integration Foundation, in cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior, supports foreigners in applying for Estonian citizenship. To this end, the foundation offers opportunities to learn Estonian at the required level (B1) for free, prepare for the citizenship exam, and provides advice on related issues. All the interested are welcome to a consultation at first: https://integratsioon.ee/en/language-training-apply-estonian-citizenship

Denis knew from childhood that his life was connected to Estonia. He was born, studied, and developed his personality here. Despite years of living with the so-called grey passport, he made the conscious decision to obtain Estonian citizenship, feeling that the time had come to finally define his place in the world.

"For a long time, I thought a grey passport was enough for me: I could travel freely to Europe, Russia, and other countries," says Denis. "But over time, I realized that I wanted to fully be part of the society I live in. Moreover, my Estonian friends constantly asked me why I was ignoring this opportunity."

His friends, in fact, played a key role in his decision. Their support helped Denis confidently navigate all the stages of preparation and exams. "One of my acquaintances said, 'Listen, you just have to do it.' I realized he was right. Sometimes, decisions come exactly at such moments."

Preparation for the exams turned out to be relatively easy for Denis. He had been hearing Estonian spoken since childhood and often practiced the language with his friends. Nevertheless, the courses ended up being useful: "Grammar lessons were the most useful to me. Even my Estonian friends often don’t know all the rules, and I figured them out with the help of wonderful teachers. Studying was not a burden, but a pleasure."

However, the path to citizenship coincided with a difficult period: the war, volunteering, and work — all of this took a lot of time. "There were moments when I wanted to give it all up," admits Denis. "But the support of friends, teachers, and the program itself helped me keep going. I felt that I was not alone."

Denis emphasizes that the learning process was not only a necessity for him but also a truly interesting experience. In the classes, he met other participants in the program, each of whom was moving toward their own goal. "It was inspiring. We shared advice and supported each other. There was an amazing atmosphere in the group where no one felt like a stranger."

After successfully passing the exams, Denis was filled with joy and pride. "When I told my friends that I had passed, they joyfully exclaimed, 'Tere tulemast!' (Welcome!). It was a big moment for me because I became a member of a community that I always felt I was part of."

Participation in the program helped Denis reaffirm his decision to stay in Estonia. "I was born here, and my heart will always stay with this country." The program not only opened up new opportunities for him but also helped him fully realize that Estonia is the place where his roots, friends, and home are.

For future Estonian citizens

The Integration Foundation, in cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior, supports foreigners in applying for Estonian citizenship. To this end, the foundation offers opportunities to learn Estonian at the required level (B1) for free, prepare for the citizenship exam, and provides advice on related issues. All the interested are welcome to a consultation at first: https://integratsioon.ee/en/language-training-apply-estonian-citizenship

For Fareed Ud Din Taimoor, the path to Estonian citizenship was not just a legal process—it was a deeply personal and transformative journey. His story began in 2015, inspired by friends who had studied at TalTech University. Watching their achievements on social media, he envisioned a similar future for himself. The idea of receiving high-quality, free education in Europe seemed like a dream. Encouraged by a close friend, Taimoor decided to take the leap and move to Estonia.

Arriving as a young student from Pakistan, Taimoor faced a number of challenges from the start. Adapting to a new culture, living away from family, and navigating a language so different from his own—all of it was daunting. But he approached these obstacles with determination, knowing that this opportunity could change his life.

The journey to citizenship required Taimoor to master the Estonian language and pass a series of exams. Language learning was particularly difficult at first. “Estonian was nothing like any language I had encountered before,” Taimoor shared.

This is where the citizenship preparation program provided critical support. Taimoor had access to well-structured language courses and study materials that guided him step by step. The flexibility of the program allowed him to learn at his own pace, making the process less overwhelming. In addition to the language courses, the program offered guidance on preparing for exams and integrating into Estonian society.

What made the biggest difference for Taimoor was the personalized approach. The program’s mentors and instructors were always available to answer questions, clarify doubts, and offer encouragement. “Without their support, it would have been much harder to stay on track,” he admits.

The program, designed for individuals seeking Estonian citizenship, runs twice a year, from March to June and from September to December. It offers a hybrid format with both in-person classes (usually held in Narva) and online sessions. Participants receive not only language instruction but also training in understanding Estonian laws and culture. The structured yet flexible nature of the program helps individuals balance their studies with work and personal commitments.

There were moments when the journey felt overwhelming. Balancing work, studies, and preparation for exams was not easy. But Taimoor kept reminding himself why he started this journey. The program’s structured approach and resources kept him motivated, as did the realization that every step forward was bringing him closer to his goal.

The program’s community aspect was also a source of motivation. Being surrounded by others who were on the same journey created a sense of camaraderie and mutual encouragement. Taimoor found inspiration in their stories and successes, which fueled his determination to push through even during tough times.

When Taimoor finally received his Estonian passport, it was a moment of immense pride and relief. It was not just a document—it symbolized years of hard work, perseverance, and personal growth. Citizenship brought with it a sense of belonging and the freedom to pursue dreams without barriers.

For Taimoor, the benefits of Estonian citizenship are clear. It has opened doors to professional opportunities and secured his future in a country he now calls home. More importantly, it has strengthened his connection to Estonia, a country that welcomed him and gave him the chance to grow.

To those considering this journey, Taimoor offers simple but powerful advice: “Don’t let fear or doubt stop you. The process is challenging, but it’s worth it. Take the first step, stay consistent, and believe in yourself.” He also emphasizes the importance of utilizing the program’s resources. “The support they provide is invaluable—it makes the entire process much more manageable.”

Fareed’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of support systems. It’s a reminder that even the most daunting journeys can lead to incredible achievements, as long as one is willing to take the first step and never give up.

For future Estonian citizens

The Integration Foundation, in cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior, supports foreigners in applying for Estonian citizenship. To this end, the foundation offers opportunities to learn Estonian at the required level (B1) for free, prepare for the citizenship exam, and provides advice on related issues. All the interested are welcome to a consultation at first: https://integratsioon.ee/en/language-training-apply-estonian-citizenship

Now in its sixth year, the Estonian Language Friends program Keelesõber involves 943 Estonian speakers who are willing to chat with language learners to help them learn Estonian. Those who are learning Estonian and are interested in such an opportunity can register on the program's website from 7 a.m. on February 7.

’A big thank you to all the registered mentors, people from all walks of life and from different countries around the world. We are delighted that the program Keelesõber and the Estonian language unite, for example, journalists, entrepreneurs, doctors, artists, auditors, sales managers, gardeners, students and pensioners from Haljala to Jamaica,’ says program director Ave Landrat.

Estonian language learners can join the Language Friends program on the Integration Foundation's website  from 7 a.m. on Friday, February 7: https://integratsioon.ee/en/language-friends/learners.

The program welcomes language learners who have reached level B1 or higher in their Estonian language studies, i.e. they can express themselves in conversations on everyday topics. The language learner will chat with their mentor at least once a week till May 14. To communicate, a channel suitable for both is chosen, such as on Messenger or by phone. The Language Friends program is open to adult language learners.

’We will start bringing language learners and mentors together on Friend's Day, February 14, and it could take some time. Thank you in advance to the mentors and language learners for your patience, we will definitely contact you,’ Ave Landrat remarked on the next stage of the program.

This is the sixth year that the program has been organized by the Integration Foundation. Over the past five seasons, the program has attracted 5365 Estonian language learners.

In February and March, Estonian language courses will begin at levels A1, A2, and B1. These courses are offered free of charge to individuals with temporary protection status, including war refugees from Ukraine who have arrived in Estonia. Registration for the language courses will start at the end of February in the online environment of the ‘Settle in Estonia’ adaptation programme (https://www.settleinestonia.ee/login).

Alongside the language courses in February and March, additional language groups will be added throughout the year, with enrolments opening gradually. A total of 2,200 beneficiaries of temporary protection will be able to start or continue their Estonian language studies in 2025. The Estonian language courses include both classroom-based courses, taking place in major cities (Tallinn, Tartu, Narva, and Pärnu), and online courses, which can be attended by anyone from anywhere in Estonia.

Free language courses for beginners and advanced learners, offered as part of the ‘Settle in Estonia’ adaptation programme, help newcomers better understand local life, communicate in everyday situations, and access work or study opportunities. The language courses are compulsory for beneficiaries of temporary protection, as renewal of their residence permit may depend on completing them.

In order to register for the language course, you need to have an account in the online environment of the ‘Settle in Estonia’ adaptation programme (https://www.settleinestonia.ee/login).

For additional information, please send an email to info@settleinestonia.ee.

The language courses of the adaptation programme are co-funded by the European Union and the state budget.

Frequently asked questions

• What are the requirements to complete the Estonian language course?
• How can I register for an Estonian language course?
• I registered for a course, but did not receive a confirmation letter. Am I registered?
• Do I need to prove that I have completed a language course at level A1 to take a level A2 or B1 course?

What are the requirements to complete the Estonian language course?

In order to complete an Estonian language course and obtain the certificate, you need to attend the full course (all contact hours) and pass the test at the end of the course.

To participate in the A2 language course, a minimum of A1 level proficiency in Estonian is required, or the A1 level course must have been completed.

In order to register for the B1 language course, you need to have completed the A1 language course.

Courses at each level can be completed only once per participant.

How can I register for an Estonian language course?

Only the applicant can register for the course. To do this, you will need to create an account in the ‘Settle in Estonia’ web environment https://www.settleinestonia.ee/login and log in. Your profile will only display courses with available spots that you can sign up for. To register for a course, click on the button ‘Register’.

I registered for a course, but did not receive a confirmation letter. Am I registered?

If you register, you will not receive a confirmation letter, but you can check the online environment to see if the registration was successful. To do this, go to your personal profile and find the box ‘Registered’. If the course is listed in this box, you have successfully registered for the course.

The instructor will send you additional course information one week to two days before the course starts.

Do I need to prove that I have completed a language course at level A1 to take a level A2 or B1 course?

To participate in a language course at the next level, you must have a certificate of completion for the previous level (A1/A2) in the ‘Settle in Estonia’ web environment. If you have completed a language course at the previous level as part of the ‘Settle in Estonia’ adaptation programme, this information is automatically updated in the online environment, and you do not need to submit a separate certificate of completion.

If you have completed a course elsewhere (e.g., at a university, Unemployment Insurance Fund, or one of the language schools listed at https://bit.ly/keeleamet), please email your certificate of completion to info@settleinestonia.ee well in advance of registering for the new course.