Since May 2025, Ukrainian refugees in Estonia will no longer receive compensations for renting a home and translation services. About it reports ERR with reference to the Estonia Social Insurance Department.
The decisions will affect thousands of Ukrainians who have used state assistance since 2022 to adapt in the country. By this time, the Estonian authorities have provided a one -time compensation for rent - up to 1,200 euros per family. Such support allowed Ukrainians to look for housing outside the placement centers on their own. In total, nearly 11,000 households received assistance during this time, most of which lived in Tallinn.
However, due to the completion of cooperation between the Department of Social Insurance and the Municipal Bodies of the capital, further support in the form of compensation is terminated. New applications for payments will no longer be accepted.
In parallel, the Estonian authorities terminate the financing of translation services for Ukrainians. So far, these services have helped refugees in communication with the authorities, doctors and other services.
At the same time, representatives of Estonia assure that the help for Ukrainians does not disappear completely, but will be transformed. According to the head of the Migration Department of the Department of Social Insurance by the Paloots, the support will continue to focus on those who need international or temporary protection and are in state placement centers.
Thus, refugees who rent a home or live outside public institutions have to prepare for new realities:
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Search for alternative housing: in connection with the lack of compensation, it is worth considering options for cheaper accommodation or the possibility of a cohabitant.
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Language learning: Since translator services are no longer funded, it is important to study Estonian for integration yourself or with the help of volunteer courses.
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Consultation: In case of issues, it is recommended to contact local social protection authorities or public organizations that support refugees.
Earlier, the Estonia Government actively supported Ukrainians who escaped from the war, providing them with housing, help in employment and integration. Now the country gradually returns to the usual refugee support system, focusing on the most vulnerable groups.
