Finland, with its stunning landscapes, high quality of life, and strong economy, is an attractive destination for people seeking to migrate.
Whether you’re drawn to its education system, natural beauty, or job opportunities, there are several ways to make Finland your new home.
In this comprehensive article, we have carefully stated the best 14 ways you can migrate to Finland without stress.
No matter your circumstance or preference, following these 14 ways is a guarantee that you can migrate to Finland at any given time. Let’s get started.
14 ways you can migrate to Finland
Here, I’ll provide you with a concise list of 14 ways you can migrate to Finland:
1. Study in Finland
One of the most popular ways to migrate to Finland is through education. Finnish universities are renowned for their high-quality education and offer a wide range of programs in English.
To pursue this path, you’ll need to apply and be accepted to a Finnish educational institution, secure a student visa, and demonstrate sufficient financial means to support yourself during your studies.
2. Work in Finland
If you have a job offer in Finland, this is a viable way for migration. The employer typically initiates the work permit process on your behalf.
Finland has a strong demand for skilled workers in various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and engineering. Make sure to check the specific requirements for your profession.
3. Family Reunification
If you have close family members who are Finnish citizens or residents, you may be eligible for family reunification. This allows you to join your family in Finland.
The process can vary depending on your relationship with the Finnish resident or citizen.
4. Entrepreneurship and Startups
For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, Finland offers opportunities to establish and run their own business.
You’ll need a solid business plan and sufficient funds to support yourself and your business venture. Finland has a startup-friendly ecosystem with support and resources available.
5. Special Talent Residence Permit
If you possess exceptional skills or talents in fields such as the arts, sports, or culture, you may qualify for a special talent residence permit. This is an avenue for individuals who can contribute significantly to Finnish society in their respective domains.
6. Marriage to a Finnish Citizen
Marrying a Finnish citizen can provide a pathway to Finnish residency. However, the marriage must be genuine, and you’ll need to meet certain requirements and prove the authenticity of your relationship.
7. Asylum and Humanitarian Protection
In cases where individuals are facing persecution or serious threats to their safety in their home countries, seeking asylum in Finland is an option. Humanitarian protection is also available for those who don’t qualify for asylum but require international protection.
8. Research and Science
Finland places a strong emphasis on research and innovation. If you’re a researcher or scientist, you can explore opportunities to work at Finnish research institutions or collaborate with Finnish partners. Special research residence permits are available.
9. Returning Finnish Expatriates
If you are of Finnish descent and your ancestors left Finland, you may be eligible for the “Finland Promotion Program,” which encourages descendants of Finnish expatriates to return to their roots.
10. Voluntary Work
Engaging in voluntary work can be a way to experience Finnish culture and contribute to society. While this doesn’t provide a direct path to permanent residency, it can be a fulfilling experience.
11. Internship
Internship programs offer short-term stays in Finland for students and recent graduates. It’s a valuable opportunity to gain work experience and network with Finnish companies.
12. Au Pair
Young individuals can consider becoming au pairs in Finnish households, providing childcare in exchange for room and board. This cultural exchange program allows you to experience Finnish family life.
13. Nordic Mobility
Finland is part of the Nordic Mobility Area, which means citizens of other Nordic countries can move to Finland more easily due to the open labor market and social security agreements.
14. EU Blue Card
The EU Blue Card is designed for highly skilled non-EU nationals and allows you to work and live in Finland. It’s an attractive option for professionals in fields such as IT, engineering, and healthcare.
Having known these 14 ways, another question that should pop into your head is, “What are the items needed in Finland? Well, we have them all in the rest of the guide. Continue reading.
Items I Need in Finland
If, despite some obstacles, you’ve determined, “I want to move to Finland,” there are a few items you’ll need.
Your residence permit is included on this list. For the time being, let’s pretend you’ve discovered a way to obtain this permit.
You will also require the following items:
1. A home
The first thing you’ll need is a home or a place to reside in Finland. Remember that residences in the capital city (Helsinki) will most likely be more expensive than homes in other locations.
However, the capital may also have more English-speaking citizens and ex-pats like yourself.
House prices in Finland are now growing, and you may find it difficult to make a purchase right away. Finding rented or owner-occupied flats may be a better choice. These are frequently listed on the internet in a variety of forums.
In Finland, you can rent a flat from an individual, a company, or a municipality.
2. A fundamental understanding of the language
You won’t need to speak Finnish all the time in Finland because many locals also speak English.
In fact, Finns have the sixth-best English skills in the world. Of course, if you don’t speak the local language, it may be tough to obtain work.
It’s also difficult to fully immerse oneself in the culture if you don’t have a basic command of the Finnish language.
Finnish is an intriguing and relatively complex language with no ties to the Germanic or Latin language families.
There are many different grammatical instances to learn, and Finns have a penchant for inventing difficult terms.
The longest Finnish word, for example, is epäjärjestelmällistyttämättömyydelläänsäkäänköhän. It’s usually ideal to start learning as soon as possible.
3. A personal identification number
When you’ve settled in Finland, it’s time to visit your local registration office. They should be able to provide you with a personal identification code.
This code can also be obtained while applying for a residency permit. The agency will also determine whether you are eligible to register a “place of domicile.”
In Finland, you’ll need your personal identity code for a variety of reasons, including getting and keeping a job.
If you also have a place of residence, you may be qualified to receive the services offered by your municipality of residence, such as healthcare.
4. A source of income
We said it earlier, but it’s a lot easier to relocate to Finland if you already have a job set up. If you are the spouse of a Finnish resident, you may be allowed to move to Finland without having to find work.
Otherwise, as an American relocating to Finland, a job will be required. Getting an education in the country is usually the best option.
If you’re an American on a student visa in Finland for a short period of time, you’ll be able to network and find career prospects before deciding to migrate to the nation full-time.
As a student, you will also have the opportunity to interact with employers in an apprenticeship situation.
If you do not begin as a student, you will need to actively seek jobs and focus on showing abilities in high demand. You might also ask your current employer to send you to Finland.
5. A bank account
You’ll need a bank account, no matter where you live in the world. If you already have your residency certificate and personal identification number, opening a bank account in Finland should be pretty simple.
Allowances, earnings, and other funds are automatically deposited into your bank account in Finland.
When opening your new account, you must bring your Finnish government-issued identity card and your passport.
You should also obtain a tax card from the tax office so that you can begin paying Finnish taxes as soon as possible.
How do I move to Finland?
If you intend to live in Finland, one of the most crucial things you must do is register. In Finland, everyone has their own unique identity code. To obtain this code, you must first register at a local office.
In most cases, you will be able to apply for both your residence permit and your personal identification code at the same time.
Even if you are only staying in Finland temporarily but working there, you must obtain a personal identity code.
It is not difficult to register as a resident of Finland, however, it can take some time. You must also ensure that you have all of the necessary papers.
If you’re moving to Finland with children, for example, you’ll require their birth certificates.
If you are married, you must also bring your marriage certificate to the office.
Remember that keeping Finnish authorities informed is also vital. If you relocate to a new residence or city, you must notify the registry office.
You must also obtain a tax card from the local tax office in order to live legally in Finland.
FAQS
1. Why move to Finland?
This can be a challenging question to answer. The motivations for moving to Finland vary depending on what is important to you.
For example, if you intend to raise a family in Finland, it’s comforting to know that the country has an excellent education system and excellent public healthcare.
Finland is also one of the happiest countries in the world, thanks in part to the country’s commitment to providing outstanding work/life balance and investing in long-term development and progress.
2. How easy is it to live in Finland?
Again, this is entirely up to you. Finland is distinct from other parts of the world for a variety of reasons. However, this does not imply that it is a tough place to begin a life. Finland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, with incredible scenery and opportunity.
If you’re prepared to pay your taxes, follow regional norms, and make an effort in society, you’ll do well in Finland.
3. Is it difficult to immigrate to Finland?
This is determined by where you are moving from. If you’re coming from another Nordic country, such as Sweden, the move is fairly simple. Moving to Finland shouldn’t be too difficult if you come from an EU country as well.
This is due to the fact that there are numerous guidelines in place to allow for smooth transit between sites.
If you are relocating to Finland from the United States, you should begin with a student visa and then gradually upgrade once you find work.
4. How much money do you require to relocate to Finland?
When you arrive in Finland, Finnish officials will frequently check to determine if you can afford to live there comfortably.
The cost of relocating to and living in Finland will include any legal fees associated with establishing a new life in a new nation.
You must also demonstrate that you earn at least 700-800 euros per month and have 2,000 euros in your bank account.
The amount of money you’ll need to live in Finland will vary based on where you relocate. Helsinki, for example, is the most costly city, although Tampere and Pori are more affordable for first-time visitors and students.
5. Is Finland a decent place to raise a family?
Finland is an excellent environment to raise a family. Everyone has access to the same public education system here, and mothers and fathers receive a lot of help as well. New mothers might obtain a baby box container containing all of the requirements for caring for a baby.
You can also apply for government assistance to help you pay for your new child, and there is paid maternity leave for up to four months for moms, even if you work. Fathers are also urged to take up to 54 days of paternity leave.
If you are still considering moving to Finland, we wish you the best of luck!
Conclusion
Migrating to Finland provides a plethora of chances as well as the opportunity to immerse oneself in a distinct Nordic culture.
The path you take will be determined by your qualifications, personal circumstances, and objectives.
Whether you’re interested in school, a job, a family reunion, or other options, it’s critical to investigate and comprehend the unique requirements and processes involved.
Finland’s smooth immigration system and commitment to integration make the land of a thousand lakes an appealing destination for people seeking a new life.