Since 2022, IOM Estonia has stepped up efforts in response to the growing needs of those who have been forced to flee Ukraine due to the ongoing war. We provide assistance for refugees in need (including onward transit), support labour market inclusion and promote social inclusion. Read more below and from IOM Strategic Response Plan 2024-2026 in Ukraine and neighbouring countries.

Individual assistance for refugees from Ukraine

For refugees who are in transit through Estonia and who wish to join their families or relatives elsewhere, IOM Estonia offers the following support:
•    We provide information on the country of destination and assist with travel arrangements to ensure the smooth course of the journey
•    We arrange plane and bus tickets, as necessary
•    We cover the costs of pre-travel accommodation and other services that might be needed
•    We provide counselling on safe travel and personal wellbeing, and can help with referrals

We also provide targeted support for those who are in need and unable to access other sources of assistance. 

Social inclusion

In social inclusion, IOM Estonia organizes trainings and events. Working closely with local municipalities who have identified needs, IOM offers our integration trainings to suit particular audiences on a variety of topics including mental health, human trafficking, gender-based violence, parenting, data protection and much more. 

Our focused adaptation courses for adults are aimed at groups of Ukrainian refugees struggling with a specific aspects of Estonian life. Be it digital skills, navigating the healthcare system, the particularities of the Estonian job market, struggles with mental health, or doubts about methods of parenting – IOM Estonia is offers sessions to match the needs of the group. 

The well-being on of Ukrainian children in Estonia is one of the priorities of IOM Estonia. We have worked with various schools in Estonia (Kunstigümnaasium, Saksa gümnaasium, Südalinna kool) to organize activity days and focused adaptation courses. In the 2023/2024 school year we have partnered with Räägu, Puhja and Järve schools, where delivered 10-week programmes for Ukrainian pupils. Children learn about the rules, norms, customs and traditions of Estonian society through games and interactive activities. Additionally, IOM organizes city and summer camps for children where they have an opportunity to learn acrobatics, photography or dance – all while practicing their Estonian language skills and interacting and building relationships with local children.

Where else to find help?

People coming to Estonia from Ukraine can find information on the Estonia Police and Border Guard Board website regarding application of temporary protection and international protection.   

The relevant pages of the Estonian Social Insurance Board (SKA) and the Ministry of the Interior provide further information. 

The website kriis.ee has collected important information on entry and residence for people fleeing Ukraine, including housing, work permits, education etc. 

Information on medical care and health insurance in Estonia can be found on Tervisekassa website.

Estonian state hotlines:

  • State Helpline: call 1247 (or +600 1247 when calling from abroad) for counselling in several languages, including Ukrainian and Russian
  • Victim support helpline: 116 006 (when calling from abroad: +372 614 7393)
  • Abandoning violence helpline: +372 660 6077
  • Estonian Victim Support Website: Ohvriabi 
  • Help for children: Lasteabi call 116111