Moving to Finland in 2024

Step by step guide on migrating and relocating to Finland in 2024?

Use our Guide to find all the moving information you may need if you are thinking of moving or working in Finland.

People relocate and move to Finland for a variety of reasons, from personal factors and ambitions to career opportunities and quality of life. First, Finland is a highly developed country with a high standard of living. The country has a stable economy, low level of corruption, excellent health care and education systems, and plenty of job opportunities. Moreover, Finns enjoy a generous welfare system and the cost of living is relatively low. Second, Finland is a beautiful,Safe and secure country. Crime levels are relatively low, the air is clean, and the countryside is full of stunning natural beauty. Thus, living in Finland is both peaceful and inspiring. Third, Finns are known for their open and friendly nature, making it easy to integrate with the local population. Locals are quite welcoming of new immigrants, making it easy to build relationships, start a new life and adjust to the culture. Moreover, the Finns are very digitization-friendly and the country is continuously investing in its digital infrastructure, making it an ideal place for tech entrepreneurs and innovators. Plus, Finnish companies are highly competitive in the international market, making it a great place to start a business. Finally, Finland offers a high quality of life. The Finns value work-life balance and prioritize leisure. Plus, there are a variety of activities for outdoors enthusiasts, from hiking, camping and skiing to nature sights, cultural attractions and delicious cuisine. All in all, Finland is an attractive destination for people from all over the world. It offers a high quality of life, excellent job prospects, beautiful surroundings and friendly locals.

Cost of Moving to Finland

1. Visas and Permits: Depending on the nationality of the person moving to Finland, they will likely require either a residence permit or a work-based residence permit. A residence permit is required for citizens of select countries who intend to stay in Finland for more than 90 days and these permits can be acquired based on various types of visas. The cost of applying for a residence permit typically ranges from €150-300, depending on the country of origin. 2. Relocation Costs: This can vary widely depending on the individual’s circumstances, but some of the associated costs include moving fees, transportation, shipping and storage fees, and other costs associated with packing and securing one’s items for the move. Some of these costs may be covered by a relocation package from an employer, but any other associated costs must be taken into account. 3. Housing Costs: The average monthly cost of renting an apartment in Finland is approximately €790 for a one-bedroom, €971 for a two-bedroom, and €1196 for a three-bedroom. Depending on the location, these costs can increase significantly, with central Helsinki being the most expensive. There is also the option of buying a home, but this carries with it additional costs such as a real estate broker fee, lawyers fees, and other closing costs. 4. Cost of Living: The cost of living in Finland will vary depending on the city or region. Generally, consumer goods such as groceries, transportation, and utilities are slightly more expensive than in other countries. Prices for services such as housing, healthcare, and education are also higher than in some other countries, as Finland is well-known for its excellent public services. Overall, moving to Finland is likely to be expensive. The total cost of relocation and living will depend on the individual’s personal circumstances, but it is important to budget and plan for potential expenses.

Best Jobs in Finland

The most popular jobs for migrants moving to Finland are in engineering, IT, and healthcare. Engineering roles, such as Civil Engineering and Mechanical Engineering, are in high demand due to the need for Finland to remain competitive in the construction and industrial manufacturing fields. Civil Engineers earn an average salary of €42,000 and Mechanical Engineers earn an average of €45,000. IT roles are increasingly popular for migrant workers looking to move to Finland due to the country’s advanced tech infrastructure. IT roles such as Software Developers, Programmers, and Network Administrators can be filled by migrant workers. The average salary for a Software Developer is €46,000, while Programmers earn an average of €39,000, and Network Administrators earn an average of €39,000 a year. Finally, healthcare roles are also popular for migrants looking to move to Finland. Doctors, nurses, and medical technicians are in high demand due to the need for skilled medical personnel to be able to care for the country’s growing and changing population. Doctors in Finland earn an average of €60,000, nurses earn an average of €37,000, and medical technicians earn an average of €35,000.

Weather in Finland

Finland is a northern European country with a continental climate. The weather in Finland can vary significantly throughout the year, due to its location in the far north. Winters in Finland tend to be cold and long, and average January temperatures can range from -10°C in the south to -30°C in the northernmost areas. The snow season typically starts in late October in the northern parts and mid-November in the south, and can last well into May. Heavy snowfall is common throughout the winter months, particularly in the northern regions. Summers in Finland tend to be mild and relatively short, with temperatures ranging from 12 in the north to 20°C in the south. The sun can be seen for more than 70 days during the summer months, with the longest days in June and July. Finland has four distinct seasons. Spring starts around late April and lasts through the month of June. Temperatures gradually warm up and the days become longer. Summer typically begins in mid-June and lasts till the end of August. Temperatures are highest during this time and the days are long. Autumn starts in September and lasts till late October/early November. This is a seasonal transition period where the days become shorter and the temperatures start dropping. Winter begins around mid-November and can last until March with temperatures usually below freezing. Snowfall can be heavy during this period, particularly in the northern regions.

Tax & Welfare System in Finland

The Tax System in Finland The tax system in Finland is both progressive and efficient. There are a number of taxes applicable to Finnish citizens, including a national income tax, a local property tax, a church tax, and a wealth tax. 1) National Income Tax: This is the most common tax levied on individuals in Finland. It is imposed on a graduated basis, depending on the total income of the individual. The tax rate varies from a minimum of 14 percent up to a maximum of 30 percent. A person’s total income is divided into five tax brackets, based on a person’s total income for the year. 2) Local Property Tax: This is a local tax, paid by those with real estate in Finland, and is calculated as a percentage of the value of the property. The tax rate can range from 0.2 percent to 5.2 percent. 3) Church Tax: This is an additional tax payable, if someone is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland. The amount payable ranges from 0.8 percent to 2.6 percent of annual income. 4) Wealth Tax: The wealth tax in Finland is imposed on the total value of assets owned, such as real estate, investments and other assets. The tax rate varies, depending on the size of the assets held. It ranges from 0.1 percent up to 2.5 percent of the total assets owned. Social Welfare System in Finland The social welfare system in Finland is multi-faceted and provides a wide range of services to citizens. The main services provided are income support, housing benefits, health services, social services, pension services, education and training, and subsistence. 1) Income Support: This is the main form of social welfare benefit available to Finnish citizens. It includes a range of support measures such as unemployment benefit, basic income security, housing benefit, family benefits, subsistence allowance, and special supplement. 2) Housing Benefit: This is a housing benefit provided by the state to those who are in need of housing support. The amount payable depends on the income and circumstances of the individual. 3) Health Services: Health services are available to all citizens at a fairly low cost. The cost of health services is shared between the government and the individual. 4) Social Services: There is a wide range of social services available in Finland, including social counselling, social housing, support for employment, and recreational activities. 5) Pension Services: Pension services are provided to citizens through the social security system. The amount payable depends on the amount of contributions paid by the individual while they were working. 6) Education and Training: The Finnish government provides a range of educational and training opportunities for citizens to improve their qualifications and to help them find employment. 7) Subsistence: Subsistence benefits are provided to low-income citizens to enable them to meet their basic needs. This includes food, clothing and shelter.

Holidays in Finland

The national holidays of Finland include the following days: 1. New Year’s Day (1st of January): On this day, Finns celebrate the start of the new year and enjoy festive celebrations with family and friends. 2. Epiphany (6th of January): Also known as the Day of the Three Kings, this holiday is widely celebrated in Finland and marks the return of the three wise men from their visit to the baby Jesus. 3. May Day (1st of May): This public holiday celebrates the arrival of spring and is filled with bonfires, concerts, and other festivities. 4. Midsummer (18th-24th of June): This six-day holiday is centered around the celebration of the summer solstice and includes bonfires, dancing, and feasting. 5. Independence Day (6th of December): This day marks the declaration of Finland’s independence in 1917 and is celebrated with parades, fireworks, and other festivities. 6. Christmas Eve (24th of December): This is the most important holiday in Finland and is celebrated with family gatherings and feasting. 7. Boxing Day (26th of December): This day marks the end of the Christmas holiday and is celebrated with gift-giving and family gatherings.

Where to Live in Finland

The most densely populated areas of Finland are concentrated in the Uusimaa region, located in the south of the country around Helsinki. This is the most populous and economically developed region in Finland and is home to the capital Helsinki and its surrounding areas, such as Espoo and Vantaa. This area is known as the Golden Triangle and is Finland’s industrial and financial center. The majority of jobs in Finland are found in this region with the most often found being IT and finance related work, as well as other service sector jobs. Helsinki is the largest center for international business as well as a hub for tourism and culture, and is home to several universities and research institutions. The cities Espoo and Vantaa also have thriving industries, mainly in IT and engineering. Outside of the Uusimaa region, jobs are primarily in small cities and rural areas. These areas are home to the agricultural sector, forestry, fishing, and other resource-based industries. The cities of Rovaniemi and Oulu are two of the largest industrial centers outside of the Uusimaa region, with the former being an important research and education hub and the latter being an important technology center. Finland is a rapidly developing country with an increasingly diverse economy, and its population is growing as more people move to the country as EU citizens. As a result, the job market is becoming increasingly diverse, and the economic outlook is generally positive.

Sports & Recreation in Finland

In Finland, people love to participate in sports and recreational activities year-round. Some popular sports and recreational activities include cross-country skiing, ice hockey, sauna, orienteering, snowshoeing, squash, soccer, swimming, running, cycling, hiking, fishing, snowmobiling, ice skating, camping and sailing. Cross-country skiing is one of the most popular sports in Finland. Skiing is a winter activity, and it is enjoyed by both competitive racers and recreational skiers alike. Cross-country skiing is also an important part of Finland’s culture and history, and a great way to experience the wilderness and forests of the country. Ice hockey is another popular sport in Finland and it is very popular among children and adults alike. Hockey is an Olympic sport, and the country has produced many successful players. One of the most popular hockey teams in the country is the Tampere Reds. Sauna is a great way to unwind and relax, and it is an important part of the Finnish culture. There are many traditional sauna rituals and activities, such as throwing water on the hot stones to create steam, or taking a jump into an icy lake or snow to cool off. Orienteering is a great outdoor activity that combines physical exercise with navigation and exploration. Participants must use a map and compass to navigate their way through various terrain, following various checkpoints and markers. Snowshoeing is a great way to experience the winter landscape and enjoy the outdoors during the cold winter months. Snowshoeing is a great way to explore Finland’s snowy terrain and take in the stunning natural scenery. Squash is a popular indoor game, played by two players in a four walled court. The game is a fast-paced game of physical and mental skill, where players must move around the court quickly and strategically in order to hit the ball and score a point. Soccer is a popular sport in Finland and it is enjoyed by both children and adults. The country is home to several professional soccer teams as well as many amateur leagues and competitions. Swimming is another popular sport and recreational activity in Finland, especially during the warmer months. Swimming is a great way to stay fit and active, and many Finnish people enjoy swimming for both recreational and competitive purposes. Running is a popular way to stay fit and healthy, and many people enjoy running in woods, parks and other outdoor spaces. Finland is a great place to run, with many different landscapes to explore. Cycling is another popular activity in Finland, and there are many designated trails, cycle paths and cycling clubs across the country. Many people enjoy cycling for leisure and competitive purposes. Hiking is another popular activity in Finland, and there are many beautiful trails to explore. Hiking is a great way to gain an appreciation for nature, while also exercising and staying fit. Fishing is a popular activity in Finland, especially during the summer months. There are many different kinds of fish to be found in the country’s many rivers, lakes and seas. Fly fishing is particularly popular. Snowmobiling is an exciting winter activity that is popular in Finland. There are many different terrain and trails to explore, and snowmobiling is a great way to experience the wilderness of Finland. Ice skating is a popular activity in Finland and it is an essential part of the country’s culture and heritage. There are many ice rinks and frozen lakes used for skating, and ice skating is a popular way to stay active in the winter. Camping is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors in Finland and there are many designated campsites to set up a tent. Camping is a great way to take in the nature and wildlife of Finland. Sailing is a popular activity in Finland, and there are many lakes, bays, seas and rivers that are suitable for sailing. Sailboats and yachts can be rented in many places, and sailing is a great way to enjoy the natural landscape of Finland.

Cost of Living & Housing in Finland

Cost of living and housing in Finland is relatively high compared to many other countries, with the cost of living index for the country coming in at 79.7 – meaning it is about 20% more expensive to live in Finland than the average of other countries. Housing: Housing prices in Finland have gone up recently, with a one-bedroom rental in Helsinki costing about €1,000 per month and a three-bedroom rental costing about €1,600. In the rest of the country, accommodation is generally cheaper, but still varies considerably depending on the area chosen. When buying a property, prices start at €200,000 and can rise to several million. Utilities: Utilities in Finland are also somewhat expensive compared to other countries, with a monthly bill of around €150 on average. This includes electricity, water and internet. However, many costs, such as water, are included in the rent if you are an apartment tenant. Food: Food costs in Finland are not significantly higher than in other countries, with a typical grocery basket of essentials costing around €65. In general, prices for basic staples are about the same as in other Scandinavian countries and the rest of Europe, though luxury items such as alcohol and imported items will be more expensive. Overall: In general, the cost of living in Finland is quite high, but it is still cheaper than many other countries in Europe and Scandinavia. For those looking for an affordable apartment, the best bet is to look outside of Helsinki. With the prices for rent and utility bills being higher than many other countries, careful budgeting will be required in order to enjoy all that Finland has to offer.

Best International Removals Companies to/from Finland

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Study and Higher Education in Finland

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