The number of Ukrainians in Estonia is decreasing: the embassy explained why and where refugees are leaving
After the outbreak of full-scale war, Estonia became one of the European destinations where Ukrainians sought safety, housing, work, and access to education for their children. In 2026, this situation changed significantly, as some citizens returned to Ukraine, while others moved to other European Union countries with larger labor markets and wider opportunities for raising a family.
Reasons for the reduction in the number of Ukrainians in Estonia
The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Estonia to Ukraine Anneli Kolk said that the number of Ukrainians in Estonia had significantly decreased compared to the first months of the great war.
According to her, after the start of the full-scale invasion, approximately 89 thousand Ukrainian citizens arrived in Estonia. Now about 25 thousand people remain in the country, while the rest have either returned home or chosen other European countries for further residence.
Among the main reasons for the decrease in the number of Ukrainians, Kolk named returning to Ukraine and moving to other European countries. For many families, the decision depends on the security situation in their home region, the ability to restore housing, return to work or reunite with loved ones.
At the same time, some Ukrainians are looking for countries with more employment opportunities, because the small Estonian labor market is not suitable for all migrants. For families with children, the availability of housing, the level of social support, the language environment and educational prospects also remain important.
What support does Estonia continue to provide
Despite the decrease in the number of Ukrainian refugees, Estonia maintains a policy of support for those who remain on its territory. Ukrainians can use basic opportunities for integration, including access to education, job search and social benefits.
Estonian authorities emphasize that the country remains open to Ukrainians in need of protection. This approach is important for people who cannot yet return home due to war, loss of housing or danger in the communities from which they left.
A special place in the support of Ukrainians in Estonia is occupied by the education of children, since a long stay abroad should not separate schoolchildren from the Ukrainian language, curriculum and cultural environment. For this purpose, the country operates the “School of Freedom”, where Ukrainian students study according to a mixed program taking into account Ukrainian and Estonian standards.
This format gives children the opportunity to adapt to life in Estonia and at the same time maintain a connection with Ukrainian education. For families considering returning to Ukraine after the situation stabilizes, this reduces the risk of a sharp gap between studying abroad and further education at home.
