Estonia phases out Covid-19 restrictions

From 24 May, cafés and restaurants will start serving customers indoors

As of 17 May, the Estonian government commenced phasing out coronavirus restrictions in the Baltic country. Schools, with the exception of a number of universities, which had been relegated to remote learning resumed in-class studies. Outdoor activities were given a go-ahead with strings attached.

From 24 May, culture and entertainment establishments will be able to reopen at 50 percent occupancy. Indoor catering services will also be allowed in cafés and restaurants. Restrictions on water parks, pools and saunas will be eased from 31 May.

A detailed list of measures has been disseminated by the Government Communication Office.

Sports, training, youth work, recreational activities and education, in-service training and refresher training

From 17 May, all these activities can be carried out outdoors in groups of up to 25 people (including an instructor). A maximum of 250 people can take part.

From 31 May, these activities will be again allowed indoors in groups of up to 10 people, no more than 100 people at a time, with no contact between groups and while observing a 25 percent occupancy limit of the venue.

Sports competitions, sports and movement events

From 17 May, outdoor sports and exercise events will be allowed for groups of up to 25 people and the event must end no later than 10 pm. The maximum number of participants is 250 people.

Top sports competitions with up to 250 participants are allowed to take place outdoors. Indoors, events are capped at 100 people. No spectators are allowed.

Athletes participating in Estonian championships and cup competitions may also start competing indoors and outdoors. No other indoor competitions are allowed. Third country participants in international high-level competitions must present a negative coronavirus test or other proof that they are not infected.

Public events, culture and entertainment, worship

From 17 May, visitors will be allowed to stay in the outdoor areas of museums and exhibitions (including the zoo), subject to a 50 percent occupancy requirement. The doors must be closed at 10 pm.

From 17 May, groups of up to 25 people are allowed to attend public events and meetings and entertainment venues outdoors. Events must end no later than 10 pm. The total number of outdoor participants is set at 250.

From 24 May, people will be allowed indoors at museums and exhibitions, as well as in fixed seating areas of theatres, cinemas, conference halls and churches, provided that the occupancy rate does not exceed 50 percent. The number of participants will be limited to 200 persons and the event must end no later than 10 pm. The 2 + 2 rule, mask-wearing, and use of disinfectants apply.

Saunas, spas, water parks, swimming pools

From 17 May, outdoor saunas, spas, swimming pools and water parks may be used for outdoor activities, provided that the number of participants does not exceed 25 people per group or 250 people in total. Outdoor areas can be open from 6 am and 10 pm.

From 31 May, the indoor areas of these facilities will be open to the public, provided that the occupancy of the room does not exceed 50 percent and there are no more than 200 participants at a time. The 2 + 2 rule must be observed when moving around.  Opening hours will be also set from 6 am to 10 pm.

Catering establishments

From 24 May, indoor dining will be allowed at catering establishments at 50 percent occupancy. The maximum number of people allowed at one table is 6.

From the same date, outdoor dining will be permitted for groups of up to 10 people at 50 percent occupancy. Indoor and outdoor catering areas must be closed to customers at 10 pm.

Retail and service establishments

From 24 May, the occupancy rate per room at retail and service companies will be increased to 50 percent. Masks remain mandatory indoors and the 2 + 2 rule must be adhered to.