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Are you ready for an adventure unlike any other? From the stunning natural beauty of the wilderness to the vibrant culture of cities, Finland offers an experience unlike any other. Whether you’re looking for a change of pace or a new challenge, moving to Finland could be just what you need. But where do you start? In this guide, we’ll cover everything about relocation to the land of the midnight sun, from researching the country to finding a place to call home.
Things to Know Before Moving to Finland
Before moving abroad you should really take advantage of modern technology and research the new country. Start with the basics, the capital city, currency, and learn about language and religion. Those facts will make your relocation and adjustment process that much easier. So, here are some of the basic facts you should know about Finland:
- Capital city – Helsinki
- Population – Approximately 5.5 million
- Official languages – Finnish, Swedish
- Currency – Euro
- Independence – Finland gained independence from Russia in 1917.
- It has three neighboring countries – Norway, Sweden, and Russia.
When figuring out all the ins and outs of relocation as well as how to live abroad, these facts can be of great help. Of course, you can dig a little bit deeper and learn more about one of the best European countries to live in.
When Moving Internationally You’ll Need to Think About Visa Requirements
When moving overseas there are a lot of documents for traveling you should think about. So, if you are planning to move to Finland, it is important to understand the visa and immigration requirements to legally reside in the country. Let’s go over the most important types of visas and residence permits for people relocating to this European nation.
Picking the Right Visa Should Be Your Top Priority When Moving Internationally
There are several types of visas and residence permits available for different purposes in Finland. The most common ones are:
- Schengen visa – This visa allows non-EU/EEA citizens to enter Finland for a short stay of up to 90 days within a six-month period. The Schengen visa also allows travel to other countries in the Schengen area.
- Residence permit for work – This permit allows non-EU/EEA citizens to reside and work in Finland for a specified period, usually tied to a specific job offer.
- Residence permit for family members – This permit allows family members of Finnish citizens or foreign residents to join them in Finland.
- Student residence permit – This permit allows non-EU/EEA students to study in Finland for a specified period.
- Residence permit for self-employed persons – This permit allows non-EU/EEA citizens to start a business in the country.
For more information, you should contact the nearest Finnish embassy and learn if there is some other visa you can obtain, and what documents exactly you need to prepare in advance.
Prepare Your Budget for Different Costs of Living
The cost of living in Finland is generally higher than in many other European countries, and it can vary depending on the city or town where you live. However, it is also relative to the quality of life and services available, such as a high-quality healthcare system, free education, and excellent public transportation.
So, if you are still on the fence about deciding where to live, check out the table below, where we compared some basic costs in the largest cities in the country.
| City | Monthly Pass for Local Transport | Basic Utilities | Rent Per Month - Apartment (1 bedroom) | Rent Per Month - Apartment (3 bedrooms) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helsinki | $70 | $110 | $850 | $1,450 |
| Espoo | $70 | $120 | $920 | $1,450 |
| Tampere | $60 | $100 | $650 | $980 |
Hire an International Moving Company to Help You Move to Finland
When planning your move, hiring an international moving company can help you make the transition smoother and less stressful. But the question still remains – how to choose a moving company and what are exactly the benefits of doing so. So, let’s go over some of the greatest benefits of using an overseas shipping company during the relocation process:
- Experience – A trustworthy overseas moving company has experience in handling all aspects of a move, all you have to do is choose a good international moving option.
- Packing and Shipping – Professional movers offer to pack and ship your belongings, including fragile items, with specialized packing materials and techniques.
- Storage – When shipping overseas international movers can also provide storage solutions if you need to store your belongings before or after the move.
- Insurance – Trustworthy movers offer insurance options to protect your belongings during the move.
- Time-saving – An international moving company can save you time by handling the logistics of the move, allowing you to focus on other important aspects of your move, such as finding a new home and preparing for your new job or school.
Know How to Choose the Best International Moving Company
During the whole relocation process, you’ll have a lot of things on your mind. However, to avoid rushing through the process of hiring international movers (which is a huge relocation mistake) you should know what to look for in a company. Here’s a list of things you should consider before hiring international movers, it will surely help you avoid scammers:
- Reputation – Choose a company with a good reputation and positive reviews from previous customers.
- Experience – Look for a company with experience in international moves.
- Services – Make sure the company offers the services you need, such as packing, shipping, and storage.
- Price – Get quotes from multiple companies and compare the prices and services offered.
For example, I Love Moving is an international company that offers a wide range of services from auto shipping, to oversized freight. All you have to do is give us a call and the rest will be up to us.
You’ll Be Able to Find a Dream Job in Finland
Are you moving for a job? Or maybe you are wondering how to get a job before you move to Finland. Worry not, no matter the answer. The job market is generally considered to be competitive and highly skilled. Some of the key industries include technology, healthcare, education, and research, which offer opportunities for those with relevant skills and qualifications.
In terms of specific jobs for expats, some of the most in-demand positions in Finland include software developers, engineers, financial specialists, and IT professionals. These fields typically require strong technical skills, which can be acquired through education or work experience.
Expats can find job opportunities by networking, using job search websites, and working with recruitment agencies. Networking can be particularly effective, as many positions are filled through personal connections. Job search websites like LinkedIn, Monster, and Glassdoor can also help expats find relevant job openings.
Consider Breaking the Language Barrier
It’s important to understand the country’s language situation no matter where you go and breaking the language barrier is sometimes a must. While English is widely spoken and understood, Finnish and Swedish are the two official languages of Finland.
Finnish is the more widely spoken language, with around 5.5 million speakers worldwide. Swedish, on the other hand, is spoken by around 290,000 people in Finland. You can start learning these languages abroad or you can use some tips from the video below, and start learning as soon as possible.
You’ll Be Living in a Country With a Highly-Regarded Healthcare System
The healthcare system is publicly funded and accessible to all citizens and legal residents. The system is based on the principle of universal healthcare, with a focus on preventative care, early intervention, and equitable access to services.
To be eligible for healthcare services, expats need to register with the Finnish social security system, which is called Kela. They will then receive a Kela card, which they need to present when they use healthcare services. It’s important to note that while basic healthcare services are free, there may be fees associated with some services, such as dental care or prescription medications. Expats are also responsible for any costs associated with private healthcare services that are not covered by the public system.
For expats who require additional insurance coverage, there are private health insurance options. These policies can provide coverage for services that are not covered by the public healthcare system, as well as additional benefits such as private hospital rooms or international medical evacuation.
There Are More Than Few Education Options for People Moving Overseas
If you are pursuing higher education or relocating with kids and want them to go to the best schools you are at the right place. This is one of the best places to live abroad with family. The nation has a highly regarded education system, and as an expat, there are a number of options available for you and your family. Here are some key things to know about education in Finland.
The Finnish public education system is free and available to all children who are registered residents. This includes pre-primary education for children aged 6 years or younger, basic education for children aged 7-16, and upper secondary education for students aged 16-19.
In addition to the public education system, there are also private schools. Private schools are not free, and tuition fees can be quite high. However, private schools may offer more specialized or individualized educational programs that are not available in the public system.
Finnish is the primary language of instruction in the public education system, but there are also opportunities for education in Swedish or English. In some areas, there may be schools that offer instruction in other languages, such as Russian or German.
There are a number of international schools that cater to the needs of expat families. These schools typically offer instruction in English and follow a curriculum that is similar to that of other international schools around the world.
Finland is home to a number of universities and other higher education institutions that offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. As an expat, you may be eligible to study at these institutions, although you may need to meet certain language or other requirements.
Get Ready for Culture Shock
Finland is a unique and fascinating country, with a rich cultural heritage that can take some time to fully understand and appreciate. As an expat, it’s important to be aware of the cultural differences and norms that may be different from what you’re used to. To avoid culture shock here are some key things to know:
- Personal Space and Privacy – Finns value their personal space and privacy, and tend to be more reserved than people from some other cultures. It’s common for people to avoid eye contact on public transport, and to keep a greater distance between themselves and others in public spaces.
- Time Management – People are generally punctual and value efficiency and promptness. It’s important to be on time for appointments and meetings and to let others know if you will be late.
- Social Interaction – Can be different from what you’re used to. Finns tend to value silence and privacy, and may not engage in small talk or other types of conversation in the same way that you might be used to.
- Sauna Culture – Is a big part of Finnish life, and many people have a sauna in their homes. It’s important to respect the rules and etiquette of sauna use, which can vary depending on the situation and the people involved.
- Nature and the Outdoors – Finland is a country that is blessed with natural beauty, and many Finns enjoy spending time outdoors. It’s common for people to engage in activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing, and to value the peace and solitude of nature.
- Food and Drink – Finnish cuisine can be different from what you’re used to and may take some time to get used to. Traditional foods include fish, reindeer, and various types of bread and pastries. It’s also common for people to drink coffee and tea throughout the day, and to enjoy alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine.
Overall, understanding and appreciating Finnish culture can be an important part of making the most of your experience as an expat. By being aware of the norms and customs of the country, you can build deeper relationships with the people around you and gain a greater appreciation for this unique and fascinating country.
Moving to Finland Will Be an Adventure to Remember
In conclusion, hiring international movers can make the process of relocating to Finland much easier and less stressful. Moving to a new country can be a complex and overwhelming experience, but working with experienced movers who specialize in international relocations can help to streamline the process and ensure that everything goes smoothly.
That’s where the I Love Moving crew can help you out. We can offer everything from packing to shipping your belongings. Our international movers can provide the support and expertise you need to relocate to Finland with ease. By working with our reputable and reliable moving company, you can rest assured that your move will be handled with care and attention to detail, so you can focus on settling into your new home and beginning your new life in Finland.
All you should do is give us a call, then ask for a free quote, and book your move.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Finland
As a foreigner, you can find housing through various online platforms such as Oikotie, Vuokraovi, and Forenom. You can also contact a real estate agent or a relocation service for assistance in finding suitable accommodation. Additionally, you can explore Facebook groups and forums where locals and expats advertise available housing or search for roommates.
Keep in mind that renting a home can be expensive, so you may need to consider alternative options such as shared housing or subletting. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with Finnish rental laws and regulations before signing any contracts.
As a foreigner, you can find a job by checking job search websites such as Monster, LinkedIn, and Indeed, networking with local professionals and companies, attending job fairs, or seeking assistance from recruitment agencies. It’s important to have a strong resume, cover letter, and relevant skills to increase your chances of getting hired. Additionally, learning Finnish or Swedish can also improve your employability, especially in certain industries.
The healthcare system is publicly funded and provides universal healthcare to all citizens and permanent residents. The system is organized into primary healthcare services, including health centers and private health clinics, and specialized medical services, including hospitals and other facilities. Patients are free to choose their healthcare providers, and most medical services are free or subsidized by the government. The quality of healthcare in Finland is generally high, and the country has one of the lowest infant mortality rates in the world.
To open a bank account, you will need a valid passport or other form of identification, proof of residency in Finland, and a Finnish personal identification number (Henkilötunnus). You can apply for a personal identification number at a local registry office. Once you have the required documents, you can visit a bank branch or apply for an account online. Most banks offer online banking services, which allow you to manage your finances from anywhere. It’s important to compare different banks and their fees and services before choosing one that suits your needs.
The best cities to live in for expats depend on individual preferences and priorities. Helsinki, the capital city, is a popular destination for its vibrant culture, job opportunities, and diverse community. Other cities that expats may consider include Espoo, Tampere, Turku, and Oulu, which are known for their high standard of living, excellent public transportation, and proximity to nature.
However, smaller cities such as Jyväskylä, Lahti, and Vaasa may also offer a high quality of life and more affordable housing options. Ultimately, the best city for an expat to live in Finland is one that aligns with their lifestyle and personal preferences.
To bring pets to Finland, you will need to comply with the requirements set by the Finnish Food Authority. Pets must have a microchip or tattoo for identification and an up-to-date vaccination record against rabies. Dogs, cats, and ferrets must also have an EU pet passport, which includes information about the pet’s identification, vaccinations, and any required treatments. In some cases, additional tests or treatments may be necessary depending on the country of origin. It’s important to check the specific requirements for your pet and to begin the process well in advance of your travel date to ensure a smooth transition.
