Returning to Estonia (‘Tagasipöördujale’)

Returning to Estonia provides comprehensive support for Estonians who are considering returning to Estonia or who have already returned. Implemented by the Integration Foundation (Integratsiooni Sihtasutus), the support forms part of the Foundation's broader mission to promote an integrated and cohesive Estonian society. The instrument combines information and guidance through individual consultations and written resources, financial assistance for return and in-person activities. Together, these services help returnees navigate the practical, professional and social aspects of resettlement, facilitating their reintegration into life in Estonia.

Support offered

The instrument consists of several different forms of support. Users can register for consultations with advisors to receive practical guidance on planning their return. These sessions are available both in-person for those based in Tallinn or online. The Return Allowance is a one-time payment upon return governed by the Conditions and Procedure for Payment of Return Support (2018), which fixes the amounts at EUR 640 per applicant. Returnees can receive EUR 640 to help establish living conditions in Estonia and support integration. In addition to this, returnees can seek support for two further supported activities, an additional EUR 640 for creating living conditions for a minor child for each returning child or for children (if the returnee is the sole breadwinner of the family), alongside up to EUR 640 in additional support to compensate for transport and moving expenses (see below for eligibility conditions). The allowance aims to ensure that specific target groups (see below) can maintain a stable socio-economic situation upon their return. Other support includes guidance and information in the form of FAQs covering key topics such as how to obtain an ID card or passport, taxes and customs, registering a place of residence, health insurance and access to a family doctor, social assistance, education, work and entrepreneurship, driving licence and vehicle registration. Each topic includes external links where further information can be found. Other sources of information include promotional videos and printed materials such as pamphlets on the instrument and a booklet with information and personal stories from returnees. Lastly, the Integration Foundation organises excursions such as museums visits and day trips as part of its Returnees Club, allowing returnees to connect with each other in a social and informal environment to discuss insights and shared experiences around adapting to life back in Estonia.

Target group

The instrument targets Estonian citizens living abroad who are contemplating return and those who have recently returned from abroad as well as members of their family.

Eligibility criteria

Anyone can access the information on the website. For access to the consultations and other services, individuals must hold Estonian citizenship or be ethnic Estonians holding an Estonian residence permit. To apply for the return allowance, one must be an Estonian citizen or an ethnic Estonian holding an Estonian residence permit, satisfy one of three criteria tied to their specific mobility history abroad, have returned to Estonia permanently no later than eight months prior to submitting the application and registered their place of residence. Additionally, it has to be demonstrated that the family's economic situation falls below a certain amount relative to a defined subsistence threshold established in Estonia. For the purposes of the return allowance, a person is considered to be of Estonian descent if at least one of their parents or grandparents was Estonian.