Looking for a fresh start in a country known for its high quality of life, progressive values, and breathtaking natural beauty? Finland might just be your next home—and workplace. Known for its world-class education system, low crime rates, and strong social support, Finland is increasingly opening its doors to skilled immigrants looking to live and work in the Nordic north.
But how easy is it to find a job as an immigrant in Finland? What sectors are hiring? What steps should you take before making the move? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about finding jobs in Finland as an immigrant.
Why Finland Is Attracting Foreign Workers
Finland is facing a demographic challenge. With one of the fastest-aging populations in Europe, there’s an urgent need for foreign workers to fill labor shortages in sectors such as healthcare, IT, construction, and more.
Key Stats and Facts:
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According to Statistics Finland, the country needs at least 50,000 new workers annually to sustain economic growth.
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The Finnish government aims to double work-based immigration by 2030.
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In 2024, over 10,000 residence permits were issued for employment reasons.
Clearly, Finland is making strategic moves to welcome more immigrants. But what does that mean for you?
Top In-Demand Jobs in Finland for Immigrants
Whether you’re a tech professional or a blue-collar worker, Finland offers a wide range of employment opportunities. Here are some of the top sectors hiring foreign workers:
1. Information Technology (IT)
Finland is a global leader in tech innovation. Companies like Nokia, Supercell, and Wolt call Finland home.
Roles in demand:
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Software developers
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Data scientists
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UX/UI designers
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Cybersecurity experts
2. Healthcare
Due to the aging population, there’s a growing demand for both entry-level and specialized healthcare professionals.
Roles in demand:
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Nurses
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Elderly care assistants
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Physiotherapists
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Medical technicians
3. Construction and Skilled Trades
As infrastructure projects expand, skilled labor is urgently needed.
Roles in demand:
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Electricians
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Plumbers
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Carpenters
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Machine operators
4. Hospitality and Services
Seasonal and permanent positions are available across tourism-heavy areas.
Roles in demand:
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Hotel staff
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Cleaners
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Cooks and kitchen helpers
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Waiters and baristas
Where to Find Jobs in Finland as an Immigrant
Finding the right job starts with knowing where to look. Here are some excellent resources:
Finnish Job Portals
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TE Services – The official Finnish employment service.
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Job Market Finland – A modern job matching service run by the government.
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Monster Finland – Popular for white-collar jobs.
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Work in Finland – A portal tailored specifically for international talent.
Many Finnish companies actively recruit through LinkedIn. Be sure your profile is optimized and includes keywords relevant to your industry.
Recruitment Agencies
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Barona
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Opteam
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Adecco Finland
These agencies specialize in matching foreign workers with Finnish employers.
Language Barrier: Do You Need to Speak Finnish?
This is one of the most common questions—and for good reason.
The short answer? It depends on the job.
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IT, Engineering, and Research roles often require only English.
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Healthcare and customer-facing roles generally require at least basic Finnish or Swedish.
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Many employers offer language training as part of onboarding.
Pro tip: Start learning Finnish early. Even a little goes a long way in helping you integrate and feel more at home.
Real-World Stories: Immigrants Who Made It in Finland
Arun from India – Software Engineer in Helsinki
After completing a master’s degree in Finland, Arun secured a job at a mobile app development company. He found his job through LinkedIn and now works in English, while slowly learning Finnish in his spare time.
Maria from the Philippines – Nurse in Turku
Maria was recruited through an agency specializing in international healthcare workers. Her employer provided language training, and she now works full-time at a senior care facility.
These examples show that success in Finland is very possible with the right approach and support.
SEE ALSO: Denmark Jobs for Immigrants – Work in Denmark
Work Permits and Visas
If you’re not an EU/EEA citizen, you’ll need a residence permit for an employed person (TTOL).
Steps to Apply:
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Find a job – You must have a valid job offer.
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Apply online via Enter Finland.
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Submit biometrics at a Finnish embassy or consulate.
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Wait for a decision, usually within 1–2 months.
Good to Know:
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Your employer must comply with Finnish labor laws.
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Permits are typically tied to your job, but can be updated if you change roles.
Life in Finland: What to Expect
Working in Finland is more than just a job—it’s a lifestyle. Here’s a quick snapshot of what you can expect:Pros:
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Excellent work-life balance (average workweek: 37.5 hours)
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Generous parental leave and healthcare
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Safe, clean environment
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Free or affordable education
Challenges:
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Dark winters and cold climate
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High cost of living in cities like Helsinki
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Social integration can take time
Still, many immigrants find Finland a welcoming and rewarding place to build a life.
Tips for Getting Hired in Finland
Here’s how to improve your chances of landing a job:
Tailor Your CV
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Keep it clear, concise, and preferably one page.
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Highlight relevant skills and experience.
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Use a Finnish-style CV format (many templates available online).
Write a Compelling Cover Letter
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Personalize each letter for the job.
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Explain why you’re interested in Finland and the specific company.
Network!
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Attend career fairs and events.
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Join professional Facebook or LinkedIn groups like “Jobs in Finland” or “Expats in Finland.”
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Tap into your alumni or diaspora network.
Internal Resources for Your Job Hunt
These resources offer a deeper dive into everything from job markets to legal requirements.
Conclusion:
Is Finland the Right Move for You?
If you’re seeking a stable, forward-thinking society with real opportunities for skilled immigrants, Finland is absolutely worth considering. While the language and climate might be initial hurdles, the long-term benefits—from secure employment to a high quality of life—are well worth the effort.
