Finding Work Abroad in Finland

Finland is a highly desirable destination for foreign job seekers due to its high standard of living, strong economy, and progressive work culture. The country offers various opportunities for skilled professionals, English teachers, and seasonal workers. While knowledge of Finnish or Swedish can be advantageous, many international workers secure jobs in industries where English is the primary working language.

This article provides a detailed overview of the job market in Finland, the types of jobs available to foreigners, teaching programmes that hire international educators, and the best job-seeking platforms to use when searching for work in the country.

Job Market in Finland for Foreigners

Finland has a diverse job market, with opportunities available in industries such as information technology, healthcare, engineering, teaching, and tourism. However, the availability of jobs depends on the sector, with some professions requiring fluency in Finnish or Swedish, while others are more open to English-speaking candidates.

Industries Hiring Foreign Workers

1. Information Technology (IT) and Software Development
   • Finland is home to a thriving tech industry, with major companies such as Nokia, Supercell, and Rovio Entertainment.
   • Roles available: Software developers, data scientists, IT support specialists, cybersecurity experts, and UX/UI designers.
   • Average salary: $4,500 – $7,000 per month.
2. Engineering and Manufacturing
   • Finland has a strong engineering sector, particularly in mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering.
   • Roles available: Electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, construction managers, and automotive engineers.
   • Average salary: $4,000 – $6,500 per month.
3. Healthcare and Social Services
   • There is a high demand for healthcare professionals, particularly doctors, nurses, and caregivers.
   • Roles available: General practitioners, nurses, physiotherapists, and home care assistants.
   • Average salary:
     • Doctors: $6,500 – $10,000 per month.
     • Nurses: $3,000 – $4,500 per month.
4. Teaching and Education
   • While Finnish is typically required for public school teaching positions, private language schools and international schools often hire English-speaking teachers.
   • Roles available: English teachers, university lecturers, and private tutors.
   • Average salary: $3,000 – $4,500 per month.
5. Hospitality and Tourism
   • The tourism industry offers seasonal and long-term job opportunities, especially in major cities and Lapland.
   • Roles available: Hotel staff, tour guides, restaurant workers, and ski resort employees.
   • Average salary: $2,500 – $3,500 per month.
6. Agriculture and Seasonal Work
   • Finland requires seasonal workers, particularly in berry picking, farming, and forestry.
   • Roles available: Berry pickers, greenhouse workers, and farmhands.
   • Average salary: $2,000 – $3,000 per month.
7. Logistics and Transportation
   • The transport sector provides job opportunities for truck drivers and logistics professionals.
   • Roles available: Truck drivers, warehouse workers, and supply chain managers.
   • Average salary: $3,000 – $5,500 per month.

Teaching Programmes for Foreign Teachers in Finland

Finland has a world-renowned education system, but opportunities for foreign teachers are mainly available in international schools and language institutes. The following programmes and institutions regularly hire foreign teachers:

1. International Schools in Finland

• Finland has several international schools that teach in English and follow international curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge system.
• Schools hiring foreign teachers include:
  • International School of Helsinki
  • Espoo International School
  • Tampere International School
  • Turku International School
• Requirements: A teaching qualification (e.g., PGCE, TEFL for English teachers) and experience in international education.

2. Private Language Schools

• Many private institutions hire native or fluent English speakers to teach English to children and adults.
• Popular language schools include:
  • Berlitz Finland
  • AAC Global
  • Finnbrit Language Centre
• Requirements: A TEFL, CELTA, or TESOL certificate and prior teaching experience.

3. Universities and Higher Education Institutions

• Finnish universities sometimes hire foreign lecturers and researchers, particularly in subjects like business, science, and engineering.
• Requirements: A master’s degree or PhD in the relevant field and teaching experience.

4. Government-Led Teaching Programmes

• While Finland does not have large-scale government-funded teaching programmes like some other countries, some local municipalities hire English teachers for supplementary language education in schools.

Job-Seeking Platforms in Finland

When searching for jobs in Finland, using the right job-seeking platforms can significantly improve your chances of securing employment. Below are some of the best online platforms for job seekers:

1. General Job Portals

• TE-palvelut (Employment and Economic Development Office) – The official government job portal for Finland. (https://www.te-palvelut.fi/)
• Duunitori – A Finnish job board that lists opportunities in various sectors. (https://duunitori.fi/)
• Oikotie Työpaikat – Another popular job portal with listings in multiple industries. (https://tyopaikat.oikotie.fi/)

2. IT and Tech-Specific Job Portals

• Jobs in Finland by Business Finland – A government-backed job portal for tech professionals. (https://jobsinfinland.fi/)
• Stack Overflow Jobs – Great for software development and programming roles.

3. Teaching Jobs Portals

• Tes – A global teaching job portal that occasionally lists positions in Finland. (https://www.tes.com/jobs/)
• ESL Café – A useful platform for English teachers seeking international jobs. (http://www.eslcafe.com/)

4. Seasonal and Hospitality Job Portals

• Barona – Lists seasonal and hospitality jobs in Finland. (https://barona.fi/en/)
• Nordjobb – Specialises in seasonal work for young EU citizens. (https://www.nordjobb.org/en)
  

Work Permits and Visa Requirements for Foreign Workers in Finland

For EU/EEA Citizens

• EU/EEA citizens do not need a work permit to work in Finland but must register their right of residence if staying for more than three months.

For Non-EU Citizens

• A residence permit for work is required. Common types include:
  • Specialist permit (for IT, finance, and engineering professionals).
  • Job seeker’s permit (for highly skilled professionals).
  • Seasonal work permit (for short-term agricultural work).
• Applications can be made through the Finnish Immigration Service (https://migri.fi/en/home).

Finland offers excellent work opportunities for foreigners across multiple industries, particularly in IT, healthcare, engineering, and education. Teaching jobs are available in international schools and private language institutes, while seasonal and hospitality roles are ideal for temporary workers. By using job-seeking platforms and understanding visa requirements, you can successfully secure employment in Finland and enjoy its high quality of life.