All steps

Money and tax

Open a Finnish bank account

Open a Finnish bank account to receive your salary, pay rent, and access Finnish online services.

Within 14 days of arrivingWithin the first two weeks. Some banks require a henkilötunnus; others can open an account with a passport.

Why this matters

Finnish society runs on online banking (verkkopankki). Many services, from tax to healthcare to libraries, require Finnish bank credentials for authentication.

How it goes

Major Finnish banks include OP, Nordea, Danske Bank, and S-Pankki. S-Pankki is often recommended for newcomers as it has relatively easy account opening requirements and can be done online. Nordea and OP may require an appointment. Some online banks like Holvi or N26 can be used temporarily while waiting for a traditional bank. Bank fees vary - many banks charge a small monthly fee.

Good to know

  • S-Pankki and Nordea are often easiest for newcomers to open
  • Some banks allow account opening without a henkilötunnus using just your passport
  • Bank credentials (verkkopankkitunnukset) are needed to authenticate yourself online across many Finnish services - this is not just for banking
  • Bringing your rental agreement and employment contract speeds up the process