Estonia, located in Northern Europe, is a small country with a population of 1.3 million people. It is known for its innovative digital infrastructure and e-governance system. As an immigrant in this country, there are several social benefits and welfare programs that you may be entitled to.
Social benefits are designed to provide financial assistance to people who are in need. These benefits are provided by the government and can include things like child benefits, parental benefits, and disability benefits.
Child benefits
Child benefits are provided to families with children under the age of 16. The benefit amount varies depending on the number of children in the family. As of 2021, the monthly benefit for one child is €60, for two children, is €100, for three children, is €220, and for four or more children is €300. To be eligible for child aid, the child must be an Estonian resident and the parent must be a legal resident or citizen of Estonia.
Parental benefits
Parental aids are provided to parents who take time off work to care for their newborn or newly adopted child. The benefit is paid for up to 435 days and can be split between both parents. The amount of the benefit is based on the parent’s average monthly income over the previous year, with a maximum benefit of €584 per month. To be eligible for parental aid, the parent must be an Estonian resident and have been working for at least 12 months before taking parental leave.
Disability benefits
Disability benefits are provided to people who have permanent or temporary disability that prevents them from working. The benefit amount is based on the person’s average monthly income over the previous year, with a maximum benefit of €420 per month. To be eligible for disability aid, the person must be an Estonian resident and have been working for at least 12 months before becoming disabled.
In addition to social aid, there are also welfare programs that assist people in need. Among the services offered by these programs are housing help, food assistance, and medical care.
Housing assistance
Housing assistance is provided to people who have low incomes and are struggling to pay for housing. The assistance can include rental subsidies, utility bill assistance, and help with finding affordable housing. To be eligible for housing assistance, the person must have a low income and be an Estonian resident.
Food assistance
Food assistance is provided to people who are struggling to afford food. This assistance can include food vouchers, meal delivery, and food banks. To be eligible for food assistance, the person must have a low income and be a citizen of Estonia.
Healthcare
Healthcare in Estonia is provided by the state and is available to all citizens of Estonia. This includes primary healthcare, specialist healthcare, and hospital care. In addition, dental care is also provided to children under the age of 19. To access healthcare, the person must be an Estonian resident and have health insurance.
Conclusion
In general, in comparison to the social aid and welfare systems of the majority of other countries, this lovely and welcoming nation’s system is one of comparatively high generosity. However, it is essential to keep in mind that eligibility for these programs is frequently contingent upon one’s place of residence as well as their amount of income. As an immigrant, it’s important to know your legal status, rights, and entitlements, and to ask for help if you need it. The Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund, the Estonian Social Insurance Board, and the Estonian Refugee Council are some of the helpful tools that are available for immigrants in this remarkable country.
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