Estonia mandates B1 Estonian proficiency for all military conscripts by 2027
Estonia has introduced a new law requiring conscripts to meet language standards before entering military service. From 2027, all recruits must prove they can speak Estonian at least at a B1 level to qualify for duty. The Riigikogu approved the legislation on Wednesday, May 13, with 76 deputies voting in favour. Under the new rules, anyone who has not studied in Estonian—or whose language skills are unclear—will need to take a B1 level exam.
Those who fail the test must attend language courses run by the Integration Foundation. They will then have one year to retake and pass the exam before being allowed to serve.
The law aims to ensure all conscripts have sufficient Estonian skills by 2027. Recruits unable to meet the B1 requirement will receive mandatory language training. Successful completion of the exam remains a condition for military enrolment.
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