Working in Finnish ways
The working culture in Finland
The Finnish working culture is said to be based on equality. In working life, diligence, individuality and initiative are highly valued, together with strict observance of agreements and agreed schedules.
The majority of employment contracts are permanent, although short-term contracts have become pretty common. The share of part-time work however remains less in Finland than in other parts of Europe. Provisions of family leave and child day care support enables women to actively participate in working life and to enter into full-time employment.
Regular working hours are about eight hours per day and forty hours a week, with two days' leave per calendar month worked.
Finland is bilingual country with two native languages: Finnish and Swedish. Knowledge of at least the basics of the Finnish language is required in practice at all workplaces although English is often the corporate language of the largest organizations. The language level requirements are determined by the employer.
The Finnish Ministry of Employment and the Economy has an informative web portal which covers the policies of innovation and technology, employment, economy and work. See the Ministry's publications and current issues here.
One of the main preconditions for receiving earnings-related daily allowance (one must be a member for more than ten months) is that you are registered at your local employment and economic development office as an unemployed job-seeker. The office will issue a labour politic statement on the matter, according to which the fund is able to pay you the benefit.
It's crucial to remember to visit an employment and economic development office no later than on your first day of unemployment. Daily unemployment allowance can only be paid for the period you've been registered as a job-seeker.
More information can be found at
Employment and Economic Development Office
The Federation of Unemployment Funds in Finland (TYJ)
The best way to integrate into a society is to learn the languages of it. Finland has three national languages, Finnish, Swedish and Lappish. The sign language is the fourth official language. Finnish is spoken in most of the country. The west and south coasts of Finland have strong Swedish-speaking communities. The province of Åland is almost totally Swedish speaking. Lapland and northern Finland has some Lappish speaking communities and schools.
Learn Finnish languages on the Internet
Finnish customs
and society
Learn about Finnish customs
Our nation's brief history explains some of our mentality
Finland's politics and administration
The Finnish authorities are trustworthy, professional and eager to help in any situation you may encouter whilst living in Finland.