TVMK were disbanded after the end of
the previous season. Hence
Vaprus, who originally were to be directly relegated, faced
Esiliiga side
Paide Linnameeskond in a
relegation play-off series for one spot in Meistriliiga 2009. With an aggregate 5–5, Paide Linnameeskond won the promotion play-off against Vaprus on the
away goals rule and play their first season in Estonian top division.
Tallinna Kalev, who originally were to participate in the relegation series, were spared.
Kuressaare earned promotion to the 2009 Meistriliiga after finishing in second place in the 2008 Esiliiga; champions
Levadia II were not eligible to be promoted. Maag Tammeka changed their name to
Tammeka following the loss of a major sponsor. ==Overview==