Finnish embassies

Embassy of Finland, Washington, DC, United States: +1 202 298 5800

Embassy of Finland, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7838 6200

Embassy of Finland, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 288 2233

Embassy of Finland, Canberra, Australia: +61 2 6273 3800

Embassy of Finland, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 343 0275

Embassy of Finland, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 478 1344

Consulate-General of Finland, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 4 924 3416

Foreign embassies in Finland

United States Embassy, Helsinki: +358 9 616 250

British Embassy, Helsinki: +358 9 2286 5100

Canadian Embassy, Helsinki: +358 9 228 530

Australian Honorary Consulate, Helsinki: +358 10 42 04 492

South African Embassy, Helsinki: +358 9 6860 3100

Irish Embassy, Helsinki: +358 9 682 4240

Doing business in Finland is made easier by the country’s excellent social welfare system, which helps integrate expats into society, including helping them look for jobs and learn Finnish or Swedish to reduce language barriers in the workplace.

To look for employment, job portals are an expat’s best bet. Nowadays, expats are likely to find jobs in the healthcare and IT sectors, but there are also many opportunities in the service industry and entrepreneurial projects.

Finland’s efficient economy is reflected in how well and easily business is conducted. The country promotes entrepreneurship and makes starting a business easier by lowering fees and processing times when registering businesses online.

When relocating to Finland, expats should take time to understand business culture and etiquette to avoid confusion in business and social settings. Here are some key points to consider.

Fast facts

Business hours

Finland’s workweek is 40 hours, and office hours are normally Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm, with lunch lasting one to two hours between 11am and 2pm.

Business language

Finnish and Swedish are the country’s official languages. Although learning the language is difficult, expats should make an effort to learn at least some Finnish. Free university language courses are offered whether expats are registered as students or not.

Dress

Business dress is generally conservative, formal and stylish, often in dark suits or dresses.

Gifts

Gift-giving is not common in business settings. Although, when invited to a Finn’s house, flowers, chocolate or wine are suitable options.

Gender equality

Finland has strong female empowerment values and equality standards that are reflected in their employment practices, and most women with children continue to work.

Greetings

A firm handshake with a smile and direct eye contact are the norm with greetings. Finnish colleagues usually call each other by their first names in the workplace, although for formal meetings, surnames may be more appropriate. Expats can ask their colleagues if they are unsure.

Business culture in Finland

Communication

Finns are normally direct. Communication is fairly open, with few topics being taboo. Still, conversational tones should be moderate, courteous and respectful, without interrupting anyone.

Hierarchy

Finns take pride in their egalitarian society and culture. As such, the workplace hierarchy tends to be flat with open communication, and junior staff members are often given authority to make decisions.

Relationships

Long-term relationships are valued, although small talk in formal business settings isn’t. Relationships and friendships are built in more informal settings and this includes not only restaurants but saunas too.

Values

Punctuality is valued in Finland – working hours and meeting times should be adhered to. Expats should let their colleagues and peers know if they expect to arrive late.

Dos and don’ts of business in Finland

• Do realise that Finnish people love their coffee, and they drink it throughout the working day 
   
• Do be humble and modest 
   
• Do say what needs to be said in business meetings, getting straight to the point, avoiding small talk 
   
• Do manage your time well 
   
• Don’t interrupt when someone is speaking, as this is rude 
   
• Don’t be late – for both business and social situations 
   
• Don’t be surprised if you get invited to go to a sauna – Finland is full of saunas, and they make for a popular social activity

Finland has a strong economy with a high GDP and a strong position among European economies and as a global player. Finding a job in this economy might be a challenge though, and expats need to be aware of required permits, tax regulations and other issues, including recognition of certain foreign qualifications. That said, there certainly are a few gaps in the job market that foreign nationals can exploit.

For an expat to work in Finland, a residence permit is normally required. Exceptions to this include citizens of EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, and other foreign nationals with a valid visa or Schengen residence permit. For expats with jobs already secured, the residence permit process is dependent on the type of work. For specific information on the need for and types of work and residence permits, contact the embassy directly.

When working in Finland, expats must have a tax card and follow tax regulations, paying tax on their income both from abroad and in the country. Another aspect of working life in Finland is that most employees are trade union members. This will cost a fee, though it is tax-deductible.

To secure employment, expats should understand the job market, how to go about their search as well as how to do business given Finland's work culture.

Job market in Finland

The service sector makes up a substantial portion of the workforce, with the government being a significant employer. Jobs can be found across the public and private sectors in education, healthcare, hospitality, transport and commerce. Some of these industries have labour shortages, including IT, hospitality, accommodation and catering, which leaves the door open for foreign nationals to secure jobs.

Teaching English as a foreign language in Finland is another popular opportunity, as English is in high demand. Expats are likely to find work as freelance teachers, giving lessons to everyone from businesspeople to children at winter camps.

Entrepreneurship is actively promoted, and starting a business has been made easier in recent years. As a result, more small and medium-sized businesses have been springing up and are looking internationally for employees.

New arrivals must also understand that certain foreign qualifications may not be recognised, particularly for some doctors and lawyers. For these cases, further training, as well as language proficiency in Finnish, may be required.

Useful links

• For more on the recognition of foreign qualifications, visit the official website of the Finnish National Agency for Education.

Finding a job in Finland

When relocating, looking for work may be stressful. Some new arrivals may already have a job secured through a transfer from their company, but for those who don't have employment secured, job portals would be the go-to option to seek employment.

Thanks to its great social welfare system, Finland extends its support to foreigners just as it would to its citizens. Expats are encouraged to be income-generators who help boost the economy and live happier lives in general. New arrivals can easily find support in job searching as well as integrating into their new homes and society.

One major contribution is the opportunity to learn Finnish or Swedish as a free university course, whether the expat is formally a student or not. For some large companies and sectors such as IT or teaching English as a foreign language, being able to communicate fluently in Finnish is obviously less important. Unfortunately, the job market is not altogether easy to enter as a foreigner, and so learning Finnish will be a great benefit when looking for and securing a job.

On top of language, experience is also important. Recent graduates with little experience may find it harder to secure employment in Finland compared to those with more years of experience.

Useful links

• Expats can visit the European Employment Services website to assist with the job search.
• Jobs in Finland hosts job listings aimed at English speakers across Finland.

Work culture in Finland

Voted one of the best places to live for work-life balance, Finland's work culture emphasises employee wellness. The workweek in Finland is normally 40 hours, although many sectors allow their staff to work shorter hours. Most workplaces also offer around four weeks of paid holiday leave annually for their employees to enjoy summer. Time management is important in Finnish culture, and employees make sure to produce and complete their tasks in the allocated work time.

Finnish workers typically experience flat hierarchies, and it is quite normal for colleagues to refer to each other by name rather than by title. Business communication is normally quite open, and Finnish employees are generally free to speak their minds. That said, courtesy and politeness are still highly valued. Punctuality is also important both in work culture and in social settings.

Often ranked the world’s happiest country, Finland is famous for its saunas, the northern lights and for being the home of Santa Claus. While Finland may seem perfect to some, others may experience some downsides while living here. Expats thinking of moving to the Nordic country should prepare for both the ups and the potential downs.

Below are some of our key pros and cons of moving to Finland.

Healthcare in Finland

+ PRO: Universal healthcare

Finland is world-renowned for having one of the most progressive social systems. This extends to its healthcare, which is both accessible and low-cost. Expats don’t need to worry about paying exorbitant amounts for a quick check-up or emergency care, as they would in some other countries.

Education in Finland

+ PRO: Excellent quality public education

Not only is the standard of public schooling in Finland high, but it is also free. The system may be unfamiliar at first, with children receiving little homework and having longer recess periods than expats may be used to, but ultimately, learning is highly valued. Teachers are paid well and respected, delivering fantastic learning opportunities that are not limited to children. Adults can take free university courses in Finnish or Swedish at public higher education institutions, making it an ideal location for studying abroad.

- CON: Language barriers

Expats with children moving for only a short while may find schooling difficult to access due to the language barriers. Education is mainly in Finnish and Swedish, both of which can be difficult to learn as an additional language. That said, support systems and preparatory classes exist, aiming to integrate all students with diverse backgrounds, skills and abilities.

Accommodation in Finland

+ PRO: Most areas are accessible by public transport

If the city centre proves too expensive or families are more drawn to suburban life, transport and commuting needn’t be a concern. Buses, trains and the metro in Helsinki are easily accessed by surrounding areas.

- CON: Waiting lists for municipal-owned housing are long

Expats who struggle to afford the cost of living in Finland and are on the lookout for cheaper accommodation can apply for municipal-owned housing. It’s a great opportunity, as this type of accommodation is cheaper than renting privately. Unfortunately, waiting lists are long as applicants are prioritised based on various need factors. Expats may need to opt for the pricier route of renting privately.

Lifestyle and culture in Finland

+ PRO: Sauna culture

Many people visit saunas regularly as part of their lifestyle – indeed, ‘sauna’ is a Finnish word. It is an interesting atmosphere that is something that many new arrivals and tourists try out. While the weather may not be to one’s liking, a sauna experience may make up for it.

+ PRO: Finland is a safe country

When moving abroad, expats often worry about their safety and whether they should cling to their bags when using public transport, not carry valuable items with them or not walk alone at night. In Finland, new arrivals should not worry too much about these issues as it is a safe environment, including for families and children.

- CON: People may seem unfriendly at first

Some expats experience culture shock, as people may appear curt, but by showing an interest in the culture and learning the language, expats are likely to make local friends.

Cost of living in Finland

+ PRO: Greater purchasing power

The high cost of living in Finland is undeniable and can take expats from less developed parts of the world a while to get used to, but with better job prospects and decent salaries, expats will have greater purchasing power and more disposable income to afford all their wants and needs.

- CON: High taxes

One of the reasons for the high cost of living is the high rate of taxes. A sizeable portion of salaries goes to tax, and this can be a shock to new employees. This is the cost of universal access to healthcare and education, as well as efficient public transport and other amenities, and most expats agree it’s worth it.

Working in Finland

+ PRO: Egalitarian work culture

Like other aspects of the culture, the workplace is egalitarian. There is no strict hierarchy implemented, and employees of various job titles can mix freely with others, while offices are often open-plan and level.

- CON: Difficult to enter the job market

Being such a developed country, finding work in Finland can prove difficult. Many new arrivals already have a job in place, which can be beneficial. Otherwise, jobseekers must put themselves out there, network and connect with people, as well as try to learn some Finnish if their sector requires it. Luckily, expats can access support services from the Finnish government to help them find a job.

Getting around in Finland

+ PRO: Helsinki is walkable

An upside of moving to Finland’s capital city is how easy it is to walk around. It is a pedestrianised city, encouraging a cleaner, unpolluted environment, and its level landscape makes walking doable. Park-and-Ride facilities are also available, encouraging drivers to park their cars before entering the city centre to continue their commute either on foot or on public transport.

- CON: Air travel is expensive

Some areas of Finland are relatively remote, making air travel expensive. Expats who make regular trips abroad and to their home country must factor this in.

Weather in Finland

+ PRO: Northern lights are visible in Finland

One of the greatest phenomena in the world is the aurora borealis, and Lapland in northern Finland offers a fantastic opportunity to witness this wonder. It is visible over half the year in Lapland but can also be marvelled at on several days in other regions of the country.

- CON: Cold and dark winters

While Finland is said to be one of the happiest countries in the world based on several measures, there are high rates of depression, likely connected to the climate. The country can get bitterly cold and daylight hours in winter are short, leaving residents in the cold and dark.

The climate is not something to be ignored when planning a move, as it could make or break an expat’s stay. Central heating systems, drinking coffee and visiting a sauna are some ways in which locals deal with the weather in Finland.

The weather in Finland is milder than one might expect, considering how far north the country is located. In general, Finland has an extreme swing between summer and winter, with bitterly cold winters when temperatures drop to -4ºF (-20ºC) in many areas, particularly in northern Lapland. Summer, by contrast, can be surprisingly warm, with temperatures rising to 68ºF (20ºC) or more. Temperatures as high as 86ºF (30ºC) are possible in the south and east of the country.

The capital, Helsinki, remains temperate, varying between an average of 63ºF (17ºC) in July to 23ºF (-5ºC) in February. January and February are the coldest months in Finland, and July is the warmest. Snow usually covers the ground in southern Finland from December to April, and northern Finland is covered in snow from October to April.

In the far north, the sun does not set for about 73 days during summer. In winter, the sun remains below the horizon for a 51-day stretch: a feature of life in Finland that expats may struggle to come to terms with. The winter night sky, especially in the northern areas of Finland, is often lit up with the magical dancing light of the aurora borealis. Ultimately, expats moving to Finland should be prepared for unpredictable weather and are encouraged to check the forecast every morning before leaving home to ensure their comfort. 

Securing the correct visa for Finland is essential for expats to enjoy the multitude of benefits that come with living in Finland. The country is a signatory to the Schengen agreement and is an EU/EEA member state, so nationals from countries that are part of the agreement or from the EU and EEA blocs can enjoy visa-free travel to Finland.

Tourist visas for Finland

Nationals from the Nordic countries, the USA, Australia, Monaco and Japan, among others, will not need a tourist visa to visit Finland. Those from countries that do not have visa agreements with Finland will need to apply for a tourist visa to legally enter the country.

Tourist visas are typically valid for 90 days during a 180-day period. Those looking to travel to Finland for tourism, business or family visit purposes must ensure their passport will be valid for at least 90 days after their intended departure from the Schengen zone. It is also essential to secure travel insurance and provide proof of accommodation, funds and a return ticket.

Some expat visitors may be required to write a cover letter detailing the reason for their visit to Finland. Those who have been invited to Finland by a friend or family member can submit an invitation letter along with their Schengen visa application. The letter must include the family member or friend’s details, as well as their residence status in Finland.

Business visas for Finland

Those travelling to Finland on a Schengen visa will not be permitted to work or study on the visa. It therefore becomes essential for expats to ensure they apply for the correct visa. The Business Schengen Visa for Finland will allow holders to perform business activities in the country at the invitation of a Finnish company.

New arrivals will need to submit an invitation letter, proof of funds and a letter from their employer stating the reason for their travels to Finland and the intended duration of their stay. The company will be expected to submit additional documents such as its trade licence, memorandum and article of association.

Work permits for Finland

Expats who are not from EU and EEA countries looking to live and work in Finland for more than 90 days will need a residence permit. It’s not possible to secure a work permit before receiving a job offer. Expats must submit their employment contract along with their university qualifications and proof of professional experience.

Only those undertaking seasonal work in Finland will be exempt from the university degree requirement. Seasonal workers who will be in the country for a maximum of 90 days will not need a residence permit. Other seasonal workers will need either a certificate for seasonal work and a residence permit for seasonal work.

Residence permits for Finland

Most expats moving to Finland are likely to need a residence permit for a right to work and live in the country. EU nationals have the right to live and work in Finland, so this will not be a necessity for them. There are multiple types of resident permits available for newcomers looking to work in Finland. These include those for specialists, seasonal workers, interns, startup entrepreneurs and media representatives, among others.

Those who are EU Blue Card holders or those coming to Finland to work as specialists, startup entrepreneurs or managers with an ICT residence permit in top or middle management can fast-track their residence permit application.

Holders of these residence permits are eligible for D visas, which allow them to immediately travel to Finland and forego the usual one or two-week wait other expats may be subjected to. Expats can become eligible for permanent residency status in Finland after holding a residence permit for a continuous four-year period.

Useful links

• Visit the official Finnish Immigration website for more on applying for residence permits.

*Visa regulations are subject to change at short notice, and expats should contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details. 

Non-EU nationals will need work permits for Finland, and it is illegal to work in the country without one. While EU nationals are exempt from work permit requirements, those planning to stay in Finland for longer than 90 days must register with the Finnish Immigration Service.

Certain categories of workers will also be exempt from work permit requirements in Finland. These include seasonal workers, academics and trainees.

Most work permit applications must be supported by a firm job offer, and an expat’s employer will likely handle a significant part of the application process. Employers will also have the burden of proving that no suitable Finnish or EU/EEA candidate could be found to fill the position in question, making it fairly challenging for third-nationals to secure a work permit for Finland.

That said, the Finnish government has recently announced relaxed regulations for the work permit process and even introduced a new work permit for those who have graduated from a Finnish university and earn above a certain income threshold. The country has established a certification programme for employers that enables them to fast-track their work permit applications, and this employer certification is valid for two years.

Types of work permits for Finland

There are two types of work permits in Finland. First-time entrants to Finland will likely be eligible for a fixed-term work permit tied to a specific employer and job. This work permit will be valid for the duration of the employment contract.

The other type of work permit is a continuous work permit, granted to those who have been working in Finland for multiple years and have secured a permanent employment contract. The continuous work permit is indefinitely valid and can lead to a permanent residency permit for holders who have lived and worked in Finland for four concurrent years or more.

Useful links

• Visit the Finnish Immigration Service website for more on the different employment categories that are eligible for work permits in Finland.

Applying for a work permit for Finland

The process for applying for a work permit will differ based on whether an expat is applying for a fixed or continuous work permit. Those moving to Finland who are looking to secure a fixed work permit will have their employers oversee the application process.

The Finnish Immigration Service will review the application, conduct a labour market test to determine if any local or EU/EEA applicants could fulfil the job requirements, and then approve or reject the application based on their findings.

If an expat’s application is approved, they will then need to begin their residence permit application process at the Finnish embassy or consulate in their home country. Some applicants may be able to fast-track their applications and immediately make the move to Finland.

*Visa regulations are subject to change at short notice, and expats should contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details. 

Expats moving to Finland should prepare themselves for life in the easternmost country of the Nordic region and one of the largest countries in Europe, not to mention one of its most picturesque. Travellers and expats alike are attracted to the country’s gorgeous scenery, cleanliness, efficient economy and famously happy population.

As Finland’s capital and busiest port, Helsinki spills across a group of Baltic islands and promontories, and its smart new suburbs extend into the verdant surrounding forests and countryside. The city is one of Europe’s most modern and culturally progressive places, yet it remains in touch with an intriguing history that stretches back over centuries.

Living in Finland as an expat

It may take expats living in Finland a while to adapt to cultural differences. The general perception is that Finns are reserved and quiet people, although this isn’t always the case with younger generations. Small talk, a skill which Finns are notoriously lacking, is sometimes regarded with suspicion. Expats would do well to learn Finnish before relocating to the country, but English is also widely spoken.

Finland scores highly in international rankings in many categories, not just in the GDP stakes but also in social support, generosity and freedom of choice. The country is said to be one of the happiest and most well-governed in the world, and new arrivals may be pleasantly surprised at how easy it is to adapt.

The most important factor affecting housing costs in Finland is the shortage of spacious accommodation available in metropolitan areas. This often forces families with children to live in the outlying municipalities or further afield, resulting in long and expensive commutes, increased dependence on cars and limited access to services.

Cost of living in Finland

The cost of living in Finland is undeniably high, even by European standards. Expats from areas of the world where they may have been used to a lower cost of living will find the higher prices a shock and something difficult to adjust to. It’s therefore worth considering the cost of things before negotiating for a suitable salary with prospective employers.

While public transport in Finland is well-organised and efficient, it can be costly. Expats are encouraged to secure discount cards to access savings or consider healthier and low-cost options like cycling and walking.

Families and children in Finland

Education is mandatory in Finland and school attendance is compulsory for all children, including foreign citizens who reside permanently in Finland. Most major cities in Finland have good quality local and international schools, but these are likely to have a waiting list, so it is vital to start looking for a school as early as possible.

Healthcare in Finland is mainly provided based on residency and is primarily financed with general tax revenues. There are both public and private sector providers. Primary health services are generally the responsibility of individual municipalities and are provided through local health centres.

Thanks to Finland’s beautiful and abundant natural landscape, parents will find themselves enjoying the outdoors much more with their children. The country also has a strong sauna culture for the winter months, but children will get the opportunity to explore museums, zoos and aquariums.

Climate in Finland

Considering how far north Finland is, the country has a milder climate than one might expect. In general, Finland has an extreme swing between summer and winter, with bitterly cold winters when temperatures drop well below freezing in many areas, particularly in northern Lapland. Summer, by contrast, can be surprisingly warm. In the far north, the sun does not set for about 73 days during summer, while in winter, the sun remains below the horizon for a 51-day stretch: a feature of life in Finland that expats often struggle to come to terms with.

Overall, though, expats moving to Finland who are willing to make an effort to adapt to local culture will find that life in Finland offers them a unique insight into Scandinavian and European lifestyles.

Fast facts

Population: Around 5.6 million

Capital city: Helsinki

Neighbouring countries: Finland is bordered by Sweden to the west, Norway to the north and Russia to the east.

Geography: Finland’s terrain is mostly flat, with around 70 percent of the country covered in dense forest. In Lapland, to the north, are low mountains, and further south lies the Åland archipelago. Eastern Finland is littered with thousands of lakes.

Political system: Unitary parliamentary republic

Major religions: Christianity

Main language: Finnish as well as Swedish and Sámi, a recognised regional language

Money: The currency used in Finland is the Euro (EUR), which can be divided into 100 cents. ATMs and card facilities are readily available throughout the country’s urban centres.

Time: GMT+2 (GMT +3 between March and October.)

Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Plugs with two round pins are used throughout the country.

Internet domain: .fi

International dialling code: +358

Emergency contacts: 112

Transport: Finns drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the country boasts an enthusiastic car culture. Major centres such as Helsinki have excellent public transport systems, and inter-city trains are efficient and accessible.