OREANDA-NEWS. January 6, 2012. On 31 December, the 2011 Population and Housing Census will begin in Estonia. Its purpose is to enumerate all the permanent residents and dwellings in Estonia. For the first time, the census can be completed online via SEB’s internet bank.

The population census lasts for three months and is conducted in two stages:

During the first month (31 December 2011 to 31 January 2012), residents can participate in the e-census, by completing questionnaires on themselves, their household and dwelling in the special e-census environment (www.REL2011.ee) or via internet bank.

Those who do not participate in the e-census, for one reason or another, will be visited by an enumerator in the period of 16 February to 31 March 2012.

The census is the only survey that provides comprehensive statistics on the number of inhabitants in Estonia and on the distribution, living conditions and characteristics of the population. This information is essential for planning Estonia’s future.

“The census is a major event and it is absolutely crucial for every single permanent resident of Estonia to participate, in order to ensure a successful result. This is the only way to gain the information that helps us set the right goals as a society in the next ten years,” said Mr Priit Potisepp, Director General of Statistics Estonia. Therefore, participation in the census is mandatory for all permanent residents of Estonia and required by law.