All steps

Health

Register with Kela

Kela (Kansaneläkelaitos) is Finland's Social Insurance Institution. Register to access health reimbursements, housing allowance, and other social benefits.

Within 21 days of arrivingAs soon as you have your henkilötunnus and have registered your address
Kela – Moving to Finland

Why this matters

Kela covers a significant portion of healthcare costs and provides many financial benefits that you are entitled to as a resident of Finland.

How it goes

If you have registered your address at DVV and plan to stay in Finland for at least 1 year, Kela insurance coverage is typically automatic. However, you should verify your coverage status at kela.fi and apply for a Kela card. Kela reimbursements cover part of prescription drug costs, private healthcare visits, and some travel costs to medical appointments.

Good to know

  • Check your Kela coverage status online as soon as you are registered
  • The Kela card (Kelakortti) is free - order it online or by phone
  • If you are unsure whether you qualify, contact Kela directly - their staff speak English
  • Keep receipts from private healthcare visits to claim reimbursement