Finland

Obtaining a residency in Finland involves a series of steps and the process can be considered average in terms of difficulty compared to other European countries. The most common type of visa for expats looking to reside in Finland is the Finnish Residence Permit. This permit is required for those intending to stay in Finland for longer than 90 days. The application process begins with determining the appropriate permit category, which varies depending on the purpose of the stay, such as work, study, family ties, or other reasons. For employment-based residency, the applicant must usually have a job offer from a Finnish employer. The employer often starts the process by initiating a partial application in the Enter Finland service. Then, the applicant completes their part of the application, submits the necessary documents, and pays the processing fee. For those seeking to join a family member in Finland, the family ties must be verified, and similar documentation and fees apply. Digital nomads, or those who work remotely and wish to live in Finland, may apply for the Finnish Residence Permit for an entrepreneur if they are self-employed or run a business. This permit requires proof of sufficient income and a viable business plan. The application for a Finnish Residence Permit can be submitted online through the Enter Finland portal or at a Finnish embassy or consulate in the applicant's home country. After submitting the application, the applicant must visit a service point of the Finnish Service or the nearest Finnish mission to verify their identity and present the original documents. Processing times for residence permits can vary, but applicants can expect to wait from a few weeks to several months, depending on the permit type and the complexity of their situation. During this time, the Finnish Immigration Service may request additional information or an interview. Once approved, the residence permit is usually granted for one year at a time, but it can be longer for certain categories, such as work or family ties. The permit can be renewed if the conditions for the permit are still met. Overall, while the process is bureaucratic and requires various documents and steps, it is well-structured and facilitated by comprehensive guidelines provided by the Finnish Immigration Service. Expats who prepare thoroughly and meet the requirements should find the process manageable.

Healthcare in Finland

The system in Finland is a blend of public and private services, with a strong emphasis on public healthcare. The public healthcare system is funded by taxes and is available to all residents of Finland, providing comprehensive coverage that includes general healthcare, specialized care, dental care, and prescription medications. Private healthcare exists alongside the public system, offering faster access to services for those willing to pay. The quality of healthcare in Finland is generally high, with a well-trained medical workforce and modern facilities. Public healthcare is affordable, with low out-of-pocket costs, while private healthcare costs can be significantly higher. Expats and digital nomads who are legal residents in Finland have access to public healthcare. They typically need to register with the Finnish Social Insurance Institution (Kela) to receive a Kela card, which entitles them to the same healthcare services as Finnish citizens. Non-residents can still use healthcare services but are required to pay the full cost.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Finland is considered high, with expenses such as housing, food, and transportation being significant factors. However, the high standard of living, comprehensive social services, and well-maintained infrastructure often offset these costs.

Weather

Finland experiences a predominantly continental climate, with cold winters and mild to warm summers. The winter season is characterized by heavy snowfall and temperatures that can drop below freezing, especially in the northern regions. During summer, the weather becomes pleasant and warmer, with long daylight hours due to Finland's northern latitude, which includes the phenomenon of the midnight sun above the Arctic Circle.

Educational System in Finland

The educational system in Finland is renowned for its high quality and is often cited as one of the best in the world. Education in Finland is free and accessible to all. It is compulsory for children between the ages of 7 and 16, which includes comprehensive school from grades 1 to 9. Finnish children usually start their education at the age of 7. The comprehensive school is divided into a lower stage (grades 1-6) and an upper stage (grades 7-9). After comprehensive school, students can choose to continue their studies in either an academic track (upper secondary school) or a vocational track (vocational education and training). Upper secondary school, also known as high school, typically lasts three years and prepares students for the matriculation examination, which qualifies them for university. Vocational education also takes about three years and provides students with qualifications and skills for various careers. Both paths can lead to higher education. Finnish schools emphasize equality, and there is less focus on standardized testing compared to other countries. Instead, assessment is often based on individual progress and teacher evaluations. The school day includes time for lunch and breaks, and there is a strong emphasis on student well-being and support.

The university system in Finland consists of both universities and universities of applied sciences (UAS). Universities focus on scientific research and education, offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Bachelor's degrees typically take three years to complete, while master's degrees take two additional years. Doctoral programs vary in length but usually require at least four years. Universities of applied sciences offer more practical education and training, with an emphasis on preparing students for specific careers. They offer bachelor's and master's degrees, with bachelor's programs taking about 3.5 to 4.5 years to complete. The academic year in Finnish universities usually starts in late August or early September and ends in May. Finnish universities offer a wide range of programs in English, which is particularly beneficial for international students. The application process for universities involves entrance exams, previous academic records, and sometimes interviews. The Finnish government supports higher education, and as a result, there are no tuition fees for EU/EEA students. However, non-EU/EEA students may be required to pay tuition fees, which vary depending on the institution and program. Universities also offer scholarships and financial aid to help cover costs for international students. Living expenses in Finland can be relatively high, but the overall cost of education is often considered reasonable due to the lack of tuition fees for many students.