Guides

Cost of Living in Finland: Real Numbers

How much does it actually cost to live in Finland? Here are concrete numbers for rent, food, transport, and everyday expenses.

When can immigrants vote in Finnish elections?

There are different rules for different elections. In municipal elections (kuntavaalit), EU citizens and non-EU citizens who have been registered in Finland for at least 2 years can vote.

Renting an Apartment in Finland

Finding and renting a flat in Finland has its own rules and culture. This guide walks you through what to expect.

How much deposit is standard in Finnish rental apartments?

The standard deposit in Finland is 1-3 months rent. By law, a landlord cannot demand more than 3 months rent as a deposit.

What is the difference between ARA apartments and private rental?

ARA (Asumisen rahoitus- ja kehittamiskeskus) apartments are state-subsidized rental housing.

What is included in Finnish apartment rent and what do I pay separately?

Basic rent (vuokra) typically includes water and sometimes heating (especially in older buildings with district heating).

How does the Finnish housing market work - is buying or renting more common?

Finland has a mixed market. Helsinki and major cities are expensive to buy - a small flat can cost 200,000-500,000€.

What is the moving-in inspection (muuttotarkastus) and why is it important?

Before moving into a rental, you should do a thorough inspection with the landlord and document existing damage.

Emergencies in Finland: What to Do and Who to Call

In an emergency in Finland, call 112. Here is how emergency services work and what to do in different situations.

Dental Care in Finland

Dental care in Finland is partly subsidised but works differently from general healthcare. Here is how to access it and what it costs.

Finnish Culture and Social Norms

Finnish culture can feel very different from what many immigrants are used to. Understanding these unwritten rules helps you integrate faster.

Understanding Kela

Kela is Finland's social insurance institution. It provides financial support for healthcare, housing, parenting, and more. Here is how it works for newcomers.

Finnish Work Culture: What to Expect

Finnish workplaces can feel very different from what many internationals are used to. Understanding the unwritten rules makes a big difference.

Day trips from Helsinki

Four easy day trips that show a different side of Finland — and one that's not in Finland at all.

Summer in Finland

Long daylight, festival season, archipelago trips, and a very different country from winter Finland.

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.

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.

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 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).

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.