Whether you already live in Finland or are considering moving there, you are entering an innovative country with a renowned quality of life, where unemployment is high (around 10.5%) due to weak demand, but structural shortages persist, notably in health and tech. Here is how to find a job, an internship or an apprenticeship there.
Why work in Finland?
Because Finland combines a cutting-edge technology sector, a regularly praised quality of life, widely spoken English and lasting needs in health and technical skills. An EU member, it is freely accessible to Europeans.
- A cutting-edge tech sector.
- Lasting shortages in health and technical skills.
- Widely spoken English, easing access.
- Free access for EU nationals.
How does the Finnish labor market work?
The market shows high unemployment, linked to weaker activity and higher participation, but skills shortages remain real in several sectors. The country seeks to attract international talent to address its aging population.
- High unemployment but skills shortages.
- A drive to attract international talent.
- Lasting demand linked to aging.
- A protective European legal framework.
Which sectors hire the most in Finland?
- Technology and digital: a historically strong sector.
- Health and care, driven by aging.
- Engineering and industry.
- Education.
- Construction and technical trades.
Which cities should you target in Finland?
- Helsinki: the capital, tech, finance and services.
- Espoo: a major technology hub.
- Tampere: industry and tech.
- Oulu: technology and telecommunications.
Work permit: the steps for foreigners
EU/EEA nationals work freely. Others need a work permit tied to a job. Permanent-residence rules are evolving, with a longer required duration and language and employment requirements.
- EU/EEA: free access to the labor market.
- Non-EU: work permit tied to a job.
- Stricter permanent-residence rules (duration, language, employment).
Salaries and cost of living: what to expect
Salaries are comfortable and working conditions known for balance. The cost of living is significant, especially in Helsinki, but social protection is high-quality.
- Comfortable salaries, especially in tech.
- A significant cost of living in Helsinki.
- Excellent work-life balance.
How to find a job, internship or apprenticeship in Finland?
- Targeted unsolicited applications (see below).
- Networking and professional platforms.
- Start-ups and tech companies.
- International talent attraction programs.
The unsolicited application: the key to Finland's hidden job market
Despite high unemployment, shortages persist in health and tech. Contacting companies directly gives you access to the hidden market and helps you stand out, especially as an international profile.
- You reach companies seeking rare skills.
- You benefit from lasting shortages.
- You show your motivation and initiative.
- You get ahead of the competition.
Succeeding in your professional integration: our tips
- Highlight your English: it is often enough in tech.
- Target Helsinki, Espoo and Oulu for tech.
- Leverage your technical skills.
- Look into international talent programs.
Your next steps to work in Finland
Target a city and a sector, prepare a CV in English, then contact companies directly. Skills shortages reward proactive profiles.