Moving to Finland

Complete 2026 relocation checklist for EU citizens moving to Finland.

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Finland

Finland

Finnish, Swedish
Capital: Helsinki
Currency: EUR
Register within No formal deadline; social/tax registration should be done quickly after moving

Residence procedure: Registration of right of residence at Migri + DVV municipality

Official government website

Your 7-step relocation checklist

  1. Step 1

    EU Free Movement confirmed

    As an EU citizen, you have the right to live and work in Finland with no visa. Bring a valid passport or national ID card.

  2. Step 2

    Find accommodation

    A local address is required for most other steps (registration, bank, tax number). Check housing costs before you move.

    Cost of living in Finland
  3. Step 3

    Register your residence — Registration of right of residence at Migri + DVV municipality

    Deadline: No formal deadline; social/tax registration should be done quickly after moving. This is the local residence registration procedure required under EU Directive 2004/38/EC after your first 3 months.

    Official government portal
  4. Step 4

    Get your Henkilötunnus (personal identity code)

    You need a Henkilötunnus (personal identity code) to work, get paid, or open a bank account in Finland.

    Apply for Henkilötunnus (personal identity code)
  5. Step 5

    Register with Kela (Social Insurance Institution) + public healthcare

    Once resident and working, register with Kela (Social Insurance Institution) + public healthcare. In the meantime your EHIC covers necessary care.

    Kela (Social Insurance Institution) + public healthcare portal
  6. Step 6

    Open a local bank account

    Most Finland employers pay salary into a local EUR account. Bring your ID, proof of address and Henkilötunnus (personal identity code).

  7. Step 7

    Calculate your expected net salary

    See what you'll actually take home in Finland after tax and social security.

    Open net salary calculator

FAQ — Moving to Finland

Information verified for 2026 from official Finland government sources. This guide applies to EU citizens under EU Directive 2004/38/EC.