How to work in Finland: Opportunities and requirements

If you are planning to work in Finland, this guide explains the requirements and opportunities to make it possible. This Nordic country offers major benefits such as free education, generous parental leave, subsidized childcare, and an increasingly multicultural work environment. Finland is also known for valuing work-life balance, with reasonable working hours and policies that prioritize the well-being of residents.

Being part of the Finnish labor market also means entering a country known for high-quality education, safety, and social welfare. Its natural beauty, commitment to sustainability, and innovative society make Finland an attractive choice for professionals across various fields. If you are looking for your next destination to expand your career opportunities, keep reading.

Advantages of working in Finland

Finland stands out for its exceptional quality of life, recognized globally. The country scores high in international rankings for well-being, healthcare, and education. Combined with a strong economy, it offers stability and opportunities for professionals aiming to grow in their careers.

• Competitive income: Salaries in Finland are higher than in many other European countries, especially in fields like technology, engineering, healthcare, and education.
• Job and economic stability: Finland’s labor system is governed by collective agreements that safeguard workers’ rights and provide job security.
• Work-life balance: In Finland, a typical workweek is around 37.5 hours, and employees also enjoy generous paid vacation and family-friendly policies that support work-life balance.
• Safe and multicultural environment: The country is known for its low crime rates and is increasingly becoming a hub for international communities.
• Innovation and professional development: Finland is known for its leadership in technology, education, and research, creating opportunities for highly skilled professionals.
• Social welfare: Finland’s public services in healthcare, transport, and education form a core part of the state, ensuring safety and a high quality of life for residents and workers.

Requirements for working in Finland

To enter the Finnish job market as a foreigner, you need to meet certain legal and professional requirements. These depend on your country of origin and the type of job, but in general, the most important ones are the following:

• Residence permit for work: Those outside the European Union or European Economic Area must apply for a residence permit that allows them to work. The type of permit depends on the contract, the length of employment, and the profession.
• Work visas: For those traveling for work, the type of visa depends on nationality and the kind of job. EU and EEA citizens can work without a visa, but they still need to register their residence in Finland.
• Employment contract: Permit applications are usually linked to a formal job offer from a company established in Finland.
• Language: While many companies operate in English, especially in tech or global services, knowing Finnish or Swedish is a valuable asset and may be required in fields like healthcare or education.
• Recognition of professional qualifications: Some regulated professions, such as medicine, nursing, architecture, or teaching, require recognition of qualifications or specific licenses issued in Finland.
• Health insurance and registered residence: To work legally, you also need to be registered with Finland’s social security system, which ensures access to healthcare and benefits.

Tips for starting work in Finland

Moving to a new country comes with its challenges, and Finland is no different. Still, following a few practical tips can help you settle in more easily, both at work and in daily life.

• Prepare your resume in European format (Europass): Many Finnish companies value this model because it is clear and standardized.
• Learn basic Finnish: While English is enough for many jobs, knowing Finnish can unlock more opportunities and make everyday life easier.
• Familiarize yourself with Finnish work culture: Punctuality, honesty, and respect for schedules are highly valued. Communication is generally straightforward and clear.
• Ensure you have internet access from the start: Having internet from the moment you arrive is essential for job hunting, navigating the city, and staying in touch with employers. A convenient option is Holafly’s monthly plans, which provide an eSIM with unlimited data from day one in Finland.
• Register with the immigration office and the municipality: Once you have a contract, this step is crucial to access services like healthcare and social benefits.
• Connect with international support networks: Finland has expat associations and groups that provide guidance and help you build professional connections.

Types of jobs in Finland for foreigners

Finland’s job market has openings in a range of sectors, especially for highly skilled workers, but there are also opportunities in temporary and support roles. Some of the main options are:

• Technology and innovation: Finland is home to companies in software, gaming, and telecommunications. Roles such as programmers, software engineers, and specialists in AI or cybersecurity are in high demand.
• Engineering: Fields such as mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering are highly valued in infrastructure and sustainability projects.
• Healthcare: Doctors, nurses, and caregivers are in demand due to the aging population.
• Education: There are opportunities for professionals in language teaching, particularly in English and other foreign languages.
• Tourism and hospitality: Jobs in hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related activities are especially available during the peak winter and summer seasons.
• Manual and temporary jobs: Positions in construction, seasonal agriculture, and logistics can serve as an entry point for those who are not yet fluent in the language.

The jobs in highest demand in Finland for foreigners

Although there are different opportunities, some sectors have a high demand for foreign professionals:

• Information technology (IT): Programmers, software developers, and cybersecurity experts are in high demand.
• Healthcare: Doctors, nurses, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals are actively being recruited from abroad.
• Language teaching: English and other foreign languages continue to be in high demand, both in private academies and educational institutions.
• Construction industry and technical trades: Electricians, welders, and maintenance personnel are highly sought after.
• Hospitality and tourism services: Especially during the northern lights season and winter activities, Finland needs staff for hotels, restaurants, and tour guiding.

Salaries and cost of living in Finland

One of the main factors to consider before moving to Finland for work is the balance between the average salary and the monthly cost of living.

In general, salaries in Finland are among the highest in Europe. The average monthly income is around $3,230 to $3,770 gross, though this varies by profession. In fields like technology, engineering, or healthcare, earnings can exceed $4,350 per month, while in sectors such as tourism, hospitality, or manual labor, the average is closer to $2,400–2,700.

When it comes to the cost of living, Finland is considered an expensive country, especially in cities like Helsinki, Espoo, or Tampere. A foreigner might spend between $1,615 and $2,370 per month, depending on lifestyle and city of residence. A rough breakdown would be:

• Accommodation: $800-1,400 (one-bedroom apartment in a large city).
• Food: $350-520.
• Transportation: $70-120 (monthly pass).
• Leisure and other expenses: $230-470.

This means that, although salaries are high, it is important to plan an adequate budget to cover basic needs and save money.

For newcomers, a key tip is to ensure mobile and internet connectivity from day one. Holafly’s monthly plans, which provide an eSIM with unlimited data in Finland, are very useful. This way, you can stay connected, search for housing, send job applications, and settle into the country smoothly.

Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍

Where can you find job opportunities in Finland?

There are different ways to access the Finnish job market as a foreigner. Some of the most effective are:

• Online job platforms: Sites like TE-palvelut (the national employment service), LinkedIn, Monster, and EURES are widely used by companies and recruiters.
• Employment and recruitment agencies: HR specialists like Adecco Finland and Barona connect employers with foreign workers for both skilled and temporary positions.
• Official government announcements: Sometimes there are specific programs targeting sectors with labor shortages, particularly in healthcare and education.
• Professional networks and local contacts: Joining expat communities and attending networking events can be very helpful for discovering job opportunities.
• Sector-specific job portals: For example, those looking for tech roles should check websites of companies like Nokia or Helsinki-based startups.

Frequently asked questions about working in Finland

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Paula Henderson

Spanish-English Translator

Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍

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