Finland Country Guide
Your Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in Finland

1. Before You Move to Finland

1.1 Residence Permits & Visa Types

Most non-EU/EEA citizens require a residence permit to live and work in Finland. Short stays (up to 90 days) may require a Schengen visa. Common residence permits include:

• Residence Permit for Employment (employee)
• Residence Permit for Specialists and highly skilled workers
• EU Blue Card
• Residence Permit for Entrepreneurs
• Student Residence Permit
• Family Member Residence Permit

Official information:

• Finnish Immigration Service (Migri)
• Ministry for Foreign Affairs – Embassies & Consulates

1.2 Working in Finland

Finland has strong industries in information technology, gaming, engineering, forest products, cleantech, healthcare, education and research. Many workplaces use English as a working language, especially in international companies.

1.3 Studying in Finland

Finland offers high-quality higher education through universities and universities of applied sciences. Many programmes are offered in English. International students require a student residence permit and proof of funds.

1.4 Housing & Accommodation

Housing markets in Helsinki, Espoo and Vantaa can be competitive, while other regions may be more affordable. Landlords commonly expect:

• Proof of income or employment
• Identification and residence permit documentation
• Security deposit (typically 1–2 months’ rent)
• Signed tenancy agreement (often in Finnish)

1.5 Banking & Finances

Finland uses the Euro (EUR). A local bank account simplifies salary payments, rent, and online services. You may be asked for:

• Passport
• Finnish personal identity code (if available)
• Proof of address and residence status

1.6 Healthcare & Social Security

Finland provides comprehensive public healthcare and social security. Once registered in Finland and covered by the system, you may be eligible for Kela (the Social Insurance Institution) benefits and reimbursements.

1.7 Key Documents to Prepare Before Moving

• Passport valid for the entire stay
• Residence permit or visa approval
• Employment contract or university admission letter
• Birth/marriage certificates for dependants
• Proof of financial means
• Private health insurance (if required)
• Accommodation confirmation or temporary address

2. Your First Weeks in Finland

2.1 Population Registration & Personal Identity Code

New residents usually need to register their stay with the local Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV). Once registered, you may receive a Finnish personal identity code, which is essential for banking, healthcare, taxation and many services.

2.2 Local Municipality Registration

If you plan to live in Finland permanently or for a longer period, you may also be registered as a resident in your municipality. This affects access to public healthcare and other services.

2.3 Kela – Social Security

Depending on your residence and employment status, you may be eligible for Finnish social security and health coverage through Kela.

2.4 Opening a Bank Account

With your identity code and proof of residence, you can usually open a Finnish bank account to manage everyday expenses and salary payments.

3. Finland at a Glance

3.1 Geography & Regions

Finland is known as the “Land of a Thousand Lakes”, with vast forests, lakes and archipelagos. Key regions include Uusimaa (Helsinki area), Pirkanmaa (Tampere), Southwest Finland (Turku) and Lapland in the north.

3.2 Politics & Economy

Finland is a parliamentary republic with a strong rule of law, low corruption and a high level of digitalisation. The economy focuses on high-tech industries, forest products, manufacturing, services and clean energy.

3.3 Climate & Weather

Finland has four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with snow, especially in central and northern regions, while summers are mild and bright. In the north, you can experience the midnight sun in summer and polar nights in winter.

4. Why Many Canadians Choose Finland

• Excellent education, healthcare and social support
• Safe, clean cities and access to nature
• Strong demand for skilled workers in tech, engineering and research
• High English proficiency, especially in urban areas
• Balanced work–life culture and family-friendly policies

5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life

Finland offers a high standard of living with modern infrastructure and services. Key cost considerations include:

• Rent, which is higher in Helsinki region than in smaller cities
• Electricity, heating and internet costs
• Public transport passes
• Childcare and schooling, where applicable

Daily life often includes outdoor activities, saunas, and seasonal events. Finnish culture values punctuality, privacy and reliability.

6. Transportation & Getting Around

6.1 Public Transport

Helsinki and surrounding areas have excellent tram, metro, train and bus networks. Other cities offer reliable bus and local train services.

6.2 National Rail & Intercity Travel

The national rail company VR connects major cities and regions by train, including overnight services to Lapland.

6.3 Driving in Finland

Finland drives on the right-hand side. Winter driving requires special attention to road conditions, and winter tires are mandatory during the winter season.

7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit

7.1 Everyday Culture

• Saunas are a central part of Finnish lifestyle
• Honesty, modesty and personal space are highly valued
• Nature and outdoor activities are important to many Finns
• English is widely spoken, especially among younger generations

7.2 Popular Cities & Attractions

• Helsinki: Waterfront, design district, markets
• Tampere: Lakeside city with industrial heritage
• Turku: Historic former capital and archipelago access
• Rovaniemi: Gateway to Lapland and “Santa’s hometown”
• Finnish Lakeland: Cottage life, lakes and forests

8. Useful Websites for Newcomers

• Finnish Immigration Service (Migri)
• InfoFinland – Official Information for Newcomers
• Kela – Social Security in Finland
• VR – Finnish Railways
• Visit Finland – Official Tourism Site