Are you planning to move to Finland? Whether you’re relocating for work, studies, love, or adventure, Finland offers clean cities, stunning nature, high quality of life, and excellent public services. But before you arrive in the land of a thousand lakes, it’s important to prepare properly.
This expat checklist will help you organize your move to Finland step-by-step — from paperwork to practical daily life tips.
1. Make Sure You Have the Right to Stay
EU/EEA citizens:
You can enter and stay in Finland without a visa, but you must register your right of residence if you stay longer than 90 days.
Non-EU/EEA citizens:
You’ll need a residence permit before moving. Apply via the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri). Common permit types include:
- Work-based residence permit
- Student residence permit
- Family ties permit
Apply early — processing can take several months.
2. Get a Finnish Personal Identity Code
You’ll need a personal identity code (henkilötunnus) for almost everything in Finland: opening a bank account, getting healthcare, signing rental contracts, etc.
You can usually receive this code:
- During your residence permit application (if applying from abroad)
- At the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV) after arriving
3. Register Your Address in Finland
If you stay longer than one year, you must register your place of residence at DVV. This allows you to:
- Receive mail and government notices
- Access public healthcare and services
- Be listed in the population register
4. Set Up Your Bank Account
Most Finnish employers will require a Finnish bank account for salary payments. You’ll need:
- Passport or national ID
- Finnish personal identity code
- Proof of address and employment/study
Popular banks: Nordea, OP, Danske Bank, S-Pankki
5. Find a Place to Live
The housing market in big cities like Helsinki, Espoo, Turku, and Tampere can be competitive. Start searching early!
Tips:
- Websites: oikotie.fi, vuokraovi.com, asuntoyhtyma.fi
- Typical rental deposits = 1–3 months’ rent
- Apartments are often unfurnished
Pro tip: Use a relocation company to help with housing, paperwork, and local orientation.
6. Get Healthcare Access (KELA)
If you’re staying long-term, you may become eligible for Finnish social security (KELA), which covers healthcare, benefits, and parental leave.
To apply, submit a KELA registration after you’ve moved and registered your address.
In the meantime, you may need private insurance.
7. Learn Some Finnish
Although many Finns speak fluent English, learning the local language(s) helps:
- In daily interactions
- With job opportunities
- For integration and making friends
Free and paid language courses are available in most cities and online – get an easy start with Duolingo for example!
8. Know the Seasons (and Pack Accordingly!)
Finland has four distinct seasons. Be ready for:
- ❄️ Winter: cold, dark, snowy – good jacket and shoes are essential
- 🌼 Spring and summer: light-filled and mild
- 🌧️ Autumn: wet and chilly
Saunas are a big part of Finnish culture — pack your swimsuit!
9. Prepare for Finnish Work Culture
The Finnish workplace is known for:
- Flat hierarchies
- Punctuality
- Honesty and direct communication
- Strong work-life balance
Tip: A good attitude and quiet confidence will help you succeed!
10. Moving Your Belongings to Finland
If you’re bringing furniture or other household goods:
- Hire an international moving company familiar with Finland
- Prepare an inventory list for customs (especially from outside EU)
- Budget for possible customs duties and taxes (check your eligibility for tax-free import)
Looking for a stress-free relocation?
We offer full-service international moving to Finland, including:
✔ Packing and unpacking
✔ Eco-friendly transport (biogas trucks)
✔ Customs paperwork assistance
✔ Local storage options
✔ Delivery and setup in your new home
Our team operates in Finland and across Europe — and we’re fluent in relocation!
Bonus: Cultural Tips for Expats in Finland
- Finns love quiet and personal space – don’t be offended by silence
- Public transport is excellent – and often on time to the minute
- Tipping is not expected in Finland
- Respect nature – “Everyman’s Right” allows you to enjoy forests, lakes, and trails freely
- Recycling and sorting waste is taken seriously
Final Thoughts
Moving to Finland as an expat is exciting — but also involves bureaucracy and planning. With the right checklist and local support, the transition can be smooth and enjoyable.
Want help with your international move to Finland?
Get in touch with our team via offer request form, email or call us for a custom quote
We speak English – and know Finland inside out.
