A light and welcoming moment from a participatory budgeting meeting in Tartu –
a cartoon hedgehog saying ‘Tere’ (‘Hello’) is drawn on a whiteboard by caricaturist Urmas Nemvalts.
The hedgehog is also a well-known character in the Estonian national epic Kalevipoeg,
where it shares wise advice with the hero. Photo: Mana Kaasik.

We help newcomers feel at home in Tartu

Welcome to Tartu!

Tartu Welcome Centre helps international newcomers and their family members find practical information, understand local services and complete the first official steps after arriving in Tartu.

Whether you have come here to study, work, join your family or build a new life, you are welcome to contact us with questions about settling into life in Tartu.

LET'S CREATE A BETTER EXPERIENCE OF SETTLING IN

People relaxing and chatting outdoors in Tartu, with bicycles and a lively urban background.

Photo: Peeter Paaver.

Tartu Welcome Centre

Settling into a new country is easier when you know where to turn. You are not alone – Tartu Welcome Centre is a team of advisers who support international newcomers and their family members in settling into life in Tartu and Southern Estonia.

We provide free information, guidance and practical services related to official procedures and everyday life in Tartu. At our centre, you can apply for an Estonian personal identification code, register your place of residence in Tartu and personalise your Tartu bus card. You are welcome to visit us during our opening hours or contact us by email, phone or Facebook.

You can contact us even if you are not sure which authority or service you need. We will help you find the right starting point.

How we can help

Whether you are just arriving in Tartu or already settling in, Tartu Welcome Centre can help you find the right information, complete important first steps and understand everyday life in Estonia.

Start with the topic that is most relevant to you. For updates about free public events and activities in Tartu, follow the Tartu Welcome Centre Facebook page.

Personal advice

Not sure where to start?

We offer free guidance for newcomers and their family members on official procedures and everyday life in Tartu.

You are welcome to visit us during opening hours – no appointment is needed.

See contacts from Contact pageVisit or contact us

ID Code and Residence Registration

At Tartu Welcome Centre, you can apply for an Estonian personal identification code and register an address located within the City of Tartu.

Visit this section to learn more about the procedures, required documents and how to prepare for your visit.

Read about ID code and residence registrationID code and residence registration

Finding housing

Finding a place to live in Tartu can take time, especially at the beginning of the academic year.

This section helps you understand student dormitories, furnished accommodation options, rental apartments, utility costs and what to check before signing a rental agreement.

Living in Tartu

Settling into a new city is easier when you know how everyday services work.

This section brings together practical information about transport, digital services, waste sorting, pets, working in Estonia, family life and other topics that can help you feel more confident in daily life.

Health care and safety

Health and safety systems may work differently from what you are used to.

This section explains where to turn in an emergency, how to get medical advice, how health insurance works, how to find a family doctor and where to find support if you need help.

Banking

Opening a bank account can make everyday life easier if you need to receive a salary or scholarship, pay rent, use local services or make online payments.

This section gives practical information about opening a bank account, student cards and banking options in Estonia.