All steps

Language

Start learning basic Finnish

Finnish is notoriously complex, but even a few basic phrases go a long way and are appreciated by locals.

Start whenever you are settled - even 10 minutes a day helps
Yle – News in simple Finnish

Why this matters

Basic Finnish helps with daily life, job hunting, and integrating into local culture. Many Finns appreciate any effort to learn the language.

How it goes

Duolingo has a Finnish course for absolute beginners. The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) and municipalities often offer free integration language courses. In some situations (long-term residents on certain permits), integration training including language education may be required. The Yle Uutiset Selkosuomeksi (news in easy Finnish) is great for practice.

Good to know

  • Duolingo Finnish is a good starting point - even 5 min/day helps
  • Free integration language courses are often available through TE Services
  • Yle's "easy Finnish" news (selkosuomi) is great for intermediate learners
  • Finns mostly speak excellent English but appreciate hearing you try Finnish