Moving to Finland checklist: Secure necessary visas and permits. Register for a Finnish identity number. Set up a local bank account. Explore Finnish healthcare options. Understand Finnish taxation system. Register with local authorities. Learn basic Finnish phrases. Research housing options. Familiarize with Finnish weather. Investigate employment opportunities.
Secure necessary visas and permits.
To move to Finland, individuals generally require a residence permit unless they are citizens of an EU member state, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. The application for the residence permit must be submitted to the Finnish Immigration Service prior to arrival in Finland. However, exemptions are made for those staying for 90 days or less, provided they are from a visa-free country.
Register for a Finnish identity number.
To register for a Finnish Personal Identity Number (Henkilotunnus), foreigners must apply simultaneously with their residence permit application or register their right of residence if they are EU citizens staying over three months. The registration is managed by the Digital and Population Data Services Agency, and it is essential for accessing various services in Finland, including taxation, healthcare, and social security benefits. For more detailed information on this process and other relevant procedures, you can visit the Expat Finland website, which offers a comprehensive guide for those moving to Finland.
Set up a local bank account.
To set up a local bank account in Finland, you typically need a passport, additional photo ID, proof of address, and for non-EU citizens, a residence permit and Finnish personal ID number (henkilotunnus) if available. You can open an account at a local bank branch, although some services, such as Online Banking, may be limited until you have a permanent address and local ID.
Explore Finnish healthcare options.
To explore Finnish healthcare options, expats must register for the National Health Insurance (NHI) if staying over four months, obtaining a Kela card for access to public healthcare and reimbursements. Public healthcare is managed by municipalities, with primary care at health centers and specialized care at hospitals. Additionally, private healthcare is also available for more comprehensive coverage options. For more comprehensive insights into this system, visit the Finnish Healthcare System resource page. This ensures that all residents, including expats, can receive necessary healthcare services during their stay in Finland.
Understand Finnish taxation system.
In Finland, residents are taxed on their worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on Finnish-source income. Expatriates can benefit from a special tax regime with a flat 32% tax rate for up to 84 months if they meet specific criteria, including a minimum monthly salary and special expertise. For more detailed information on tax obligations, expatriates can refer to the Tax Guide for Americans in Finland, which provides comprehensive insights on how to navigate the Finnish tax system effectively.
Register with local authorities.
To register with local authorities in Finland, it is essential to submit a notification of move to the Digital and Population Data Services Agency, known as Digi- ja Vaestovirasto. This can be done either online or with a paper form, and if necessary, you may need to visit the local office to register your municipality of residence and obtain a personal identity number, also known as henkilotunnus. For more information on the process, you can refer to the comprehensive guidelines provided by InfoFinland, which offers valuable insights into moving house in Finland.
Learn basic Finnish phrases.
This resource offers a comprehensive list of basic Finnish phrases, including greetings, questions, directions, and emergency terms, which are essential for anyone moving to Finland and wanting to learn the language. It covers phrases like "hei / moi" (hello), "kiitos" (thank you), "missa vessa on?" (where is the toilet?), and many more practical expressions. For a detailed guide to these essential phrases, visit the UusiKielemme website.
Research housing options.
When researching housing options in Finland, it's essential to use websites like Oikotie and Vuokraovi for rentals, and Etuovi for purchasing. As you explore these options, consider factors such as proximity to work, educational institutions, and local amenities to find the ideal location that suits your lifestyle. Additionally, ensuring that your lease or purchase agreement outlines all necessary details, including property specifics, payment terms, and maintenance responsibilities, is crucial. For more detailed guidance on relocating, consider visiting the Deel Blog, which provides valuable insights for expats moving to Finland.
Familiarize with Finnish weather.
To familiarize yourself with Finnish weather, understand that Finland has a continental subarctic climate with long, cold winters and short, mild summers. The warmest month is July, the coldest is February, and August is the wettest month, with significant regional variations in temperature and daylight hours. For more detailed information, you can visit the website on Weather in Finland, which provides comprehensive insights into these variations and what you may experience during different seasons.
Investigate employment opportunities.
To explore employment opportunities in Finland, it's recommended to browse job advertisements on platforms such as Job Market Finland and Jobs in Finland, along with other job portals. An essential step is to register as a jobseeker with TE Services, ensuring that your professional qualifications are recognized if required. The Suomi.fi Checklist serves as a useful guide to streamline the process and help navigate through various requirements efficiently.