Politics
AI
Estonia Forgoes Courier Language Mandate, Citing Practical Hurdles
Estonia will not require foreign couriers to pass a language proficiency test, diverging from a new Lithuanian mandate, as officials cite the non-existence of a suitable beginner-level exam and a low volume of public complaints.
- —Estonia will not require language proficiency from foreign couriers, as there is no A1-level test available and an A2 requirement is deemed excessive.
- —Lithuania has implemented a requirement for foreign service sector workers to speak Lithuanian at the A1 or beginner level since the beginning of 2026, with initial reports indicating limited language skills and rising complaints.
- —Estonian officials, including Ilmar Tomusk, director general of the Estonian Language Board, believe the A1 level could be sufficient for couriers, but developing a new exam would be a significant undertaking.
- —The Ministry of Education and Research in Estonia considers requiring A2-level Estonian skills from couriers to be an unreasonable restriction, noting that complaints about couriers are relatively low compared to other service workers.
- —A draft amendment to Estonia's Language Act is under review, but current focus is on stronger oversight and potential suspension of service cards for non-compliant workers, rather than pre-emptive language testing for couriers.
Recap
Estonia's decision is a pragmatic calculation, prioritizing administrative reality over a uniform language policy. By pointing to the lack of a suitable A1 test and minimal public complaints, Tallinn avoids the implementation challenges faced by Lithuania, opting instead for targeted enforcement where problems are documented, not preemptive regulation for a sector with few reported issues.