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. Expats, nowadays, are likely to find jobs in the healthcare and IT sectors, but there are also many opportunities in the service industry as well as 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 a 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 then flowers, chocolate or wine are good 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, workplace hierarchy tends to be flat with open communication, and junior members of staff 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 also saunas.

Values

Punctuality is valued in Finland – working hours should be stuck to, and meeting times 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 expats 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 both 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 members of a trade union. This will cost a fee, though it is tax-deductible.

New arrivals must also understand that certain foreign qualifications may not be recognised, particularly some doctors and lawyers. For these cases, further training, as well as language proficiency in Finnish, may be required. More on this can be found on the official website of the Finnish National Agency for Education.

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 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.

Finding a job in Finland

When relocating, looking for work may be stressful. Some new arrivals may already have a job secured by a transferral through their company, but for those who don't have employment secured, job portals would be the go-to option to look for work. The European Employment Services website is another place that we can recommend for a job search.

Thanks to its great social welfare system, Finland extends its support to foreigners just as they would to their 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 course in universities, 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.

Work culture in Finland

The workweek in Finland is normally 40 hours, although many sectors allow their staff to work shorter hours. Time management is important in Finnish culture and employees make sure to produce and complete their tasks in the allocated work time.

Business communication is normally quite open, and Finnish employees are generally free to speak their mind. That said, courtesy and politeness are still highly valued. Punctuality is also important both in work culture and in social settings.

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 well paid and respected, delivering fantastic learning opportunities, which are not limited to children. Adults can take free university courses in Finnish or Swedish at public higher education institutions, making it a great 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 need not 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 more expensive 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 and is something that many new arrivals and tourists try out. Where 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, if they should cling on to their bag when using public transport, not carry valuable items with them or not walk alone at night. In Finland, new arrivals should not over-stress 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, job seekers 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 and then continuing their commute either by walking or taking 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 and climate 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

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.

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 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. February is the coldest month 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, 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. The winter night sky, especially in the northern areas of Finland, is often lit up with the magical dancing light of the aurora borealis.

Finland is 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, its cleanliness, its efficient economy and its 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 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 on international rankings in many categories, not just in the GDP stakes but also 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.

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.

Expat families and children 

The most important factor affecting housing costs in Finland is the shortage of spacious accommodation available in metropolitan areas, which 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.

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. 

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.

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 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 5.5 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 a 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 dialing 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.

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 Embassy, Helsinki: +358 10 42 04 492 

South African Embassy, Helsinki: +358 9 6860 3100

Irish Embassy, Helsinki: +358 9 682 4240 

The cost of living in Finland is undeniably high, even by European standards. Expats from areas of the world with a lower cost of living may 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.

Prices in urban areas and especially the capital, Helsinki, are much higher than in other areas of Finland, especially in terms of accommodation. Helsinki ranked 56th out of 209 cities in Mercer's 2021 Cost of Living Survey, making it more expensive than cities such Berlin and Perth, but still more affordable than Paris and Milan.

With a job in place, expats can plan and budget accordingly, and while many goods and services come with a hefty price tag, the excellent universal public education and healthcare systems make up for it. What makes things slightly easier is the currency. Finland is part of the EU and uses euros ,meaning that expats from other EU countries will face few issues in currency conversions.

Have a look at the varied living expenses in Finland.

Cost of accommodation in Finland

Housing costs in Finland are high, especially in the capital, Helsinki. Rent can take up a sizeable portion of one’s income, although generally, rates are better further away from city centres. Of course, this is something expats will have to weigh up – the time and financial cost of a daily commute into the city for lower rent versus the convenience and liveliness of city living.

Rent also depends on how furnished the living space is and, when inspecting accommodation, expats should keep this in mind. The cost of buying furniture adds up and may only be preferred by those staying long term.

Utilities are an extra expense. Water and heating are often included in the rent, but electricity and internet are not.

Cost of transport in Finland

Although public transport is efficient and useful in urban spaces and for reaching neighbourhoods outside of the main cities, it's pretty expensive. We therefore recommend buying a monthly pass or a travel card for the discounted price this offers – every little bit helps, especially if expats will be commuting every day. 

Helsinki itself is quite walkable and has extensive cycle paths, making walking and cycling feasible and healthy alternatives of getting around.

Cost of education in Finland

Although Finland has a high cost of living, it has a progressive social system favouring education and healthcare. Not only is there free universal daycare for children aged eight months to five years, but some areas may give financial support to caregivers who choose to provide care for their children at home for the first three years.

Public schooling remains free and includes free school healthcare, daily lunch, books and materials. Upper secondary school from around age 15 requires students to buy their own materials.

The issue, for many expats, may be the language. The language of instruction in public schools is mainly Finnish or Swedish, so for expats only staying for a short while or with older children, the better route may be to enrol their youngsters in a private or international school. This can be pricey, though.

Tertiary education is free to students from the EU and Switzerland, while other international students are required to pay tuition. Still, all tertiary programmes that are taught in Swedish or Finnish are free to everyone, including international students.

Cost of healthcare in Finland

Finland has universal healthcare funded by tax, meaning everyone is entitled to health services regardless of their income level. Private healthcare centre expenses may vary.

Expats from the EU can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in Finland. UK citizens can make use of their Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaced the EHIC for UK citizens post-Brexit. While employers must arrange health insurance for their workers, this only covers incidents in the workplace itself. Expats from outside the EU are therefore advised to take out private insurance.

Cost of food and clothing in Finland

Food and drinks, especially eating out, can be expensive in Finland and while clothing can be pricey, there are always more affordable options, seasonal sales and the opportunity to buy second hand. How much one spends is down to their lifestyle choices, income level and budgeting decisions. Once expats get more settled, they may find places that offer better deals as well as supermarkets and stores they can go to for the best prices and discounts.

Cost of living in Finland chart

Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Helsinki in April 2022.