Estonia

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services. 

• Dial 112 for police or ambulance.  
• Dial 116 006 for victim crisis support hotline.
• Dial 116 111 for crisis support hotline for children and youth.

Crime

Crime risk in Estonia is low. Pickpocketing, theft, and petty crime occur, particularly in crowded areas and locations where tourists gather.

• Pickpockets use tactics to distract victims. One common method involves bumping into the victim to draw their attention to 1 person while another takes their wallet.
• Most incidents affecting U.S. citizens involve people who are alone or intoxicated at night. If you consume alcohol, you should exercise moderation and designate a sober member of the group to maintain security awareness.
• Report crimes to the police and cancel credit cards immediately if stolen.
• Incidents against individuals based on race, religion, or sexual orientation are rare. However, the U.S. embassy has received reports of U.S. citizens being harassed due to their race.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams and Internet romance scams are common in Estonia. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 112. An English-speaking operator will always be available though not always immediately. 

• Victims of crime may also dial 116-006 to contact Estonia’s Social Insurance Board’s Victim Support and Prevention Services Department to speak to a victim support worker.  
• For social welfare emergencies, such as domestic violence or child abuse, dial 112.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime. 

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault and domestic violence are encouraged to contact local law enforcement and the U.S. embassy for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Cellular providers and travel groups recommend turning off data roaming near land borders to avoid expensive roaming charges.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You must wear small reflectors on clothing when it is dark outside or during poor weather visibility, especially during the winter months.  Fines for refusing to wear the reflectors range from $50 to $500.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Estonia seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.  See more information on Enterprise Estonia’s website.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations. The law provides for marriage equality and prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of sex or sexual orientation.

• Estonian law prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of sex or sexual orientation, or other personal characteristics, and the government generally respects these prohibitions.
• Social acceptance of lesbian and gay identity in public is not as common as in the United States.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Estonia prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual or mental disabilities. The law is generally enforced.

• Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States.
• Expect physical accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication, and general infrastructure.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Estonia Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 112 for emergency medical services. English-speaking operators are always available.
• Dial 1888 to request roadside assistance or towing service.

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are widely available.

Ambulance services are free. But when you visit the emergency room with a minor illness – like a sore throat, flu, or mild sprains – you are responsible for payment of all tests, treatments, and consultations.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Estonia but there are some exceptions.
• True emergency care is free of charge for everyone in Estonia, including foreigners, regardless of their insurance status. True emergency is when the health condition, not taken care of rapidly, results in death or permanent health damage.
• If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses.
• Upfront payment by cash or credit card, up to the total of all anticipated charges, is generally required by hospitals catering to foreigners prior to services or treatment.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities 

Medical care falls short of U.S. standards outside the larger cities such as Tallinn, Tartu, and Pärnu. 

• Many medical professionals in Estonia are highly trained, but some hospitals and clinics still suffer from a lack of equipment and resources. 
• Many doctors and nurses speak at least some English, but most assisting personnel speak only Russian or Estonian.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
• Estonia has a shortage of family care doctors and psychologists, and not all doctors speak English.

Prescription medications and other drugs

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  Check with the Estonian Agency of Medicines to ensure the medication is legal in Estonia and review their information about traveling with medical products in the Schengen zone.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.  

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.  

For more information:  

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection  
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to Estonia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART), please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.  

• Surrogacy is generally prohibited in Estonia.

Water quality and  food safety 

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking.  
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.

Air quality

Estonia has some of the cleanest air in the world and is one of only 13 countries or territories globally to meet or exceed World Health Organization guidelines on clean air.  

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Est. For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.  
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.  
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Estonian roads and highways can be icy and dangerous during winter months. Some rural roads are unpaved. Some hazards to health and safety in the winter include large icicles falling from buildings or slippery roads and sidewalks.

• Winter driving requires extra caution. Snow tires are mandatory between December 1 and March 15.
• Night driving in winter presents challenges due to Estonia's northern location (above 57 degrees North). This results in extended periods of darkness during winter months. Proper vehicle lighting is essential.
• Adequate traffic signage exists. Drivers are expected to follow local traffic laws and regulations. Estonia uses standard European road signs.
• Vehicle repairs and maintenance are generally available at local garages at reasonable prices. Major U.S., European, and Japanese auto dealerships are present in Tallinn.
• Third-party liability insurance is mandatory. Collision and comprehensive insurance are recommended.
• You must have original title documentation and compliance with EU standards.
• Emergency personnel are professional and responsive. The Emergency Response Center provides real-time assistance and coordinates appropriate emergency services.

Traffic laws 

You can drive in Estonia for up to 1 year using both a U.S. driver’s license and an IDP.

• You must have a valid U.S. driver’s license.  Licenses that do not include a symbol and description of the vehicle category must be accompanied by a valid International Driving Permit (IDP). 
• Driving while intoxicated is a very serious offense and carries heavy penalties. The Estonian legal system takes a zero-tolerance approach. Even 1 drink can lead to a DUI arrest.
• You can get IDPs from either the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance before departing the United States.  You can find details on Estonia’s Road Administration website.  
• You must always use your headlights.
• The use of seatbelts, both front and rear, is mandatory in Estonia. Car seats are required for infants.
• Talking on cell phones while driving is prohibited, except when using a hands-free system.
• It is illegal to turn right on a red light.
• Do not attempt to move the vehicle to the side of the road until the police reach the scene if you are in an accident.  
• Pedestrians have the right of way in Estonia and may step out into the road suddenly.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxis and ride shares are considered safe. Choose well-marked taxis.
• Uber and Bolt operate in Tallinn.

Public and commercial transportation

Public transportation is considered safe with extensive bus and tram network systems in major cities like Tallinn.

• Visit the website of Estonia’s national tourist office and Republic of Estonia Road Administration for road safety. 
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Estonia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Estonia should check the following: 

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings 
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Helpful resources

• Dial 112 for Emergency Response Center (Häirekeskus). Services are available in Estonian, Russian, and English.
• Ole Valmis website and mobile app also provide emergency messaging and local crisis resources in all 3 languages.

Weather conditions

Severe winter ewather

Heavy snow, ice, and extreme cold create hazardous road conditions and increase accident risk. These events can cause power outages and isolation in rural areas.

Storms and high winds

Common from September to March.  

• Strong storms can cause property damage, fallen trees, and service disruptions.
• These storms may result in extended power outages, particularly when combined with winter conditions.
• Weather-related power outages can last for extended periods, particularly affecting rural areas.
• Loss of heating during cold weather poses serious risk.

Flooding

• Common from March to May.
• Flooding can affect low-lying areas, cause road closures, and damage property.
• Spring flooding occurs as accumulated snow melts rapidly.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits. The Federal Benefits Unit at the U.S. Embassy in Warsaw covers services for U.S. citizens in Estonia.

Embassies and consulates