Guides

The Finnish Education System: A Guide for Immigrant Families

Finnish education is world-renowned and completely free. Here is how the system works from daycare to upper secondary, and what your children are entitled to.

Family Benefits in Finland: What You Can Claim

Finland has one of the most generous family support systems in the world. Here is what benefits are available and how to claim them.

Getting Married in Finland

Marriage in Finland is straightforward and equal for all couples regardless of gender. Here is how to do it and what it means legally.

Divorce in Finland

Divorce in Finland is a no-fault process that does not require agreement from both parties. Here is how it works.

What support does Finland offer for families with young children?

Finland has very comprehensive family support. When a child is born, parents receive a maternity package (alypakkaus) or cash payment from Kela.

How does the Finnish school system work?

Finnish comprehensive school (peruskoulu) is free and compulsory for ages 7-16, covering grades 1-9.

How do I bring my family members to Finland (family reunification)?

If you have a valid residence permit, your spouse/partner and minor children may apply for family reunification through Migri.

What is the neuvola and do I have to go?

Neuvola is the Finnish child health clinic system. It is free and provides regular check-ups, vaccinations, developmental assessments, and parenting support for children from pregnancy to school age.

How long is parental leave in Finland and how is it split between parents?

Since the 2022 parental leave reform, each parent gets roughly 160 days of paid parental leave, totalling about 320 days (around 14 months).

What is the maternity package (äitiyspakkaus) and who gets it?

The Finnish maternity package is a box of baby essentials given to every family expecting a child in Finland.

How does daycare (varhaiskasvatus) work in Finland and how much does it cost?

All children from age 1 have the right to municipal daycare. The monthly fee is income-based with a cap around 295 euros for the first child (2024 figures), less for additional children.

Is preschool (esiopetus) compulsory in Finland?

Yes, since 2015 preschool (esiopetus) is compulsory for all 6-year-olds in Finland. It is free and runs for one year before primary school starts at age 7.

What child benefit (lapsilisa) does Finland pay and for how long?

Child benefit is paid from birth until the child turns 17. The monthly amounts (2024): first child 94.

What happens if I get divorced in Finland - what are the rules around children?

Finland encourages shared custody as the default after divorce. Both parents typically retain parental responsibility (huoltajuus).

How do I register the birth of my child born in Finland?

Births in Finnish hospitals are automatically reported to the population register by the hospital.

Can my child attend a Finnish school if we are not permanent residents?

Yes. All children living in Finland have the right to basic education (perusopetus) regardless of their or their parents' residence permit status.