Finland has one of the most generous family support systems in the world. Here is what benefits are available and how to claim them.
Every child under 17 living in Finland is entitled to a monthly child benefit from Kela, regardless of family income. The amount in 2024 is approximately 94.88 euros per month for the first child, increasing for each additional child (up to about 182 euros for the fifth child). Single parents receive a supplement of about 68 euros per child. Apply at kela.fi as soon as your child is registered in Finland.
Finland reformed its parental leave system in 2022. Each parent receives 160 days of parental allowance (about 6.4 months). Up to 63 days can be transferred to the other parent. In addition, the pregnant parent receives a pregnancy allowance of 40 weekdays. The allowance is income-based (typically about 70 percent of your salary). If you have no prior income in Finland, you receive a minimum amount of about 31 euros per day.
If you care for a child under 3 at home instead of using municipal daycare, Kela pays a home care allowance of about 377 euros per month plus a supplement based on income. Many Finnish families use this option. It can be combined with part-time work. Apply through Kela.
Families with children may qualify for general housing allowance (yleinen asumistuki) from Kela. The amount depends on your income, rent, and family size. For a family of four in Helsinki paying 1200 euros rent, the subsidy can be several hundred euros per month. Apply at kela.fi.
Every expecting parent in Finland is entitled to the famous Finnish baby box (äitiyspakkaus), which contains essential items for the newborn: clothes, sleeping bag, bedding, hygiene products, and more. Alternatively, you can choose a cash grant of 170 euros. The box has become a symbol of Finnish equality and is available to all residents regardless of income.
Common mistake
Not applying for benefits because you think they are only for Finnish citizens. Most family benefits are based on residence, not citizenship. If you live in Finland and are registered, apply.
Good to know
Finland spends more per capita on family support than almost any other country. The system is designed to ensure that having children does not lead to poverty, and benefits are available to all residents equally.