Life in Estonia and Haapsalu
What you need to know when living here
Not everything in Estonia is written down in one place. Many things only become clear once you start living here, such as how things work, what local customs are, and what is expected in everyday interactions.
On this page, we have brought together the most important information to help you better understand how life in Haapsalu works.
Adapting to life in Estonia
The adaptation guide brings together practical advice and local customs to help you better understand everyday life in Estonia.
It includes clear explanations and real-life examples of how things work in practice, covering situations you may encounter in communication, dealing with services, and everyday life.
Everyday behaviour and customs
How people behave in public spaces, why speaking quietly is common, and why maintaining distance from strangers is part of everyday life.
Dealing with services and agreements
How communication with public authorities works, why appointments are usually booked in advance, and why keeping agreements and deadlines is important.
Time and punctuality
Why being on time is valued and how being late is perceived in the Estonian context.
Children and school life
What is expected of parents, how schools and kindergartens function, and what everyday routines and arrangements involve.
Everyday life and environment
Why waste sorting is important, how people behave on public transport, and what everyday habits are common.
The guide is based on real-life experiences and helps you better understand the unwritten rules that shape everyday life. You can explore it directly on this page.
The information leaflet is based on real-life experiences and helps you better navigate everyday life in Haapsalu. You can explore it directly on this page or open it in a separate view. A printed version is also available at the Haapsalu City Government building, Posti 34.
Adapting to life in Haapsalu
Essential information for people who are starting life in Haapsalu or have already settled here but want to better understand how everyday life works.
Here you can find practical guidance, important contacts, and useful services in one place to help you navigate daily life more confidently.
First steps
How to register your place of residence, which documents you need, and how to get started.
Work and taxes
Key information about job opportunities, entrepreneurship, and how taxes work.
Health and family
How to find the services you need and manage matters related to family and children.
Transport and everyday life
Getting around the city, tickets, discounts, and practical solutions for everyday life.
Useful contacts
Key phone numbers, organisations, and services you can turn to when needed.