Kela is Finland's social insurance institution. It provides financial support for healthcare, housing, parenting, and more. Here is how it works for newcomers.
Kela provides a wide range of benefits: healthcare reimbursements (partial refunds for private doctor visits and prescriptions), housing allowance (asumistuki) for low-income residents, parental allowances, disability benefits, rehabilitation support, and student benefits. The coverage depends on your residency status and income.
If you are officially a resident of Finland (registered at DVV) and plan to stay for at least one year, you are generally covered by the Kela insurance system. Some benefits have additional conditions - for example, housing allowance is income-tested. EU/EEA citizens who are working are also typically covered.
Order your free Kela card (Kelakortti) at kela.fi once you are registered. The card is used at pharmacies to automatically receive prescription discounts. You can also access your Kela details through the OmaKela app.
When you visit a private doctor, Kela reimburses part of the cost - typically 30–60% depending on the service. Submit your receipts through the OmaKela app. Prescription drugs are automatically discounted at the pharmacy if you show your Kela card. There is also an annual out-of-pocket maximum for medicines.
If your income is below a certain threshold, you may qualify for general housing allowance (yleinen asumistuki). This can significantly reduce your housing costs. Apply through kela.fi with details of your rent and income.
Common mistake
Not checking your Kela coverage or claiming reimbursements you are entitled to. Many newcomers leave money on the table by not submitting healthcare receipts.
Good to know
Kela's website and app have good English content. Their customer service speaks English. The OmaKela app is one of the most useful apps to have on your phone as a Finnish resident.