A new law will come into force on January 1st. Conscripts must know Estonian at least at the B1 level.
The government has introduced a new regulation. It will help verify the language proficiency of conscripts and organize language training.
The purpose of the law is to ensure that conscripts can safely and successfully learn in Estonian.
Conscripts do not need to prove their language proficiency separately. First, data from national registries will be checked.
If language proficiency is not found in the data, the person will be directed to an exam. The exam is organized by the Education and Youth Board.
Before assigning language training, a separate test will be conducted. It will help determine instructors and the volume of training.
Training can also take place online. This is necessary for those who cannot attend in person.
The state will pay for the language training of conscripts. The volume of training depends on the level and can range from 100 to 250 hours.
Participants in the courses will receive compensation. It will help cover travel and food expenses.
After the language training, an exam will be conducted. It will show whether the goal has been achieved.
If a conscript fails the language training, they can continue learning. If they are unsuccessful, they must try again the following year.
The total budget for language training is 400,000 euros per year. It covers exams, courses, and compensations.