Relocating to Finland with your partner and children is a life-changing decision that requires proper planning, accurate information, and an understanding of the Finnish immigration process, lifestyle, and social systems. Whether you’re moving for work, studies, or a better quality of life, this guide will walk you through every step of the process, from visas to settling down successfully.
Why Choose Finland?
Before diving into the logistics of relocating to Finland with your partner and children, it’s important to understand why so many families consider this Nordic nation.
Key Reasons to Relocate to Finland:
- High Quality of Life: Finland consistently ranks among the top countries for well-being, safety, education, and healthcare.
- World-Class Education System: Free and equal education is available for all children, regardless of nationality.
- Stable Economy: Finland offers a robust job market, especially in IT, healthcare, engineering, and education sectors.
- Clean Environment: The country is known for its pristine nature, clean air, and outdoor lifestyle.
- Family-Friendly Society: Generous parental leave, child benefits, and strong family support services.
Step 1: Understand the Immigration Requirements
To relocate to Finland with your partner and children, you must first obtain the correct residence permits. Immigration rules depend on your nationality and reason for moving.
1.1 If You’re an EU/EEA Citizen
- You do not need a visa to enter or stay.
- You must register your right of residence if staying longer than 90 days.
1.2 If You’re a Non-EU/EEA Citizen
You will need to apply for residence permits from the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).
Common Residence Permit Types:
| Permit Type | Purpose | Applicable To |
|---|---|---|
| Work-Based Permit | For employment in Finland | Main applicant (e.g., IT worker, nurse) |
| Student Permit | For studies at Finnish institutions | Adults and eligible dependents |
| Family Ties Permit | Based on relationship with a family member | Spouse, registered partner, children |
| Entrepreneur Permit | For those starting a business | Entrepreneurs and self-employed workers |
Step 2: Family Reunification Process
If one family member receives a permit first (usually the employed or studying partner), the rest of the family can apply for permits through family reunification.
Who Can Apply:
- Married spouse or registered partner
- Cohabiting partner (must prove two years of living together)
- Children under 18
- Legal guardian of a child
Required Documents:
- Valid passports
- Marriage or cohabitation proof
- Birth certificates for children
- Proof of financial means (income threshold must be met)
- Accommodation details in Finland
Tip: Submit all applications at the same time for faster processing.
Step 3: Secure Accommodation in Finland
You must prove that you have suitable housing for your family.
Housing Options:
- Rental apartments (common in cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku)
- Government-subsidized housing
- Private houses or townhouses
| City | Average Rent (3-bedroom) | Popular With Families |
|---|---|---|
| Helsinki | €1,300–€1,800/month | Very Popular |
| Tampere | €1,000–€1,400/month | Popular |
| Oulu | €800–€1,100/month | Affordable |
| Espoo | €1,200–€1,600/month | Family-Oriented |
Step 4: Enroll Your Children in School
Finland offers free basic education for all children, including immigrants.
Education System Breakdown:
- Preschool (6 years old) – Optional but highly encouraged
- Comprehensive School (ages 7–16) – Mandatory and free
- Upper Secondary or Vocational School (16+) – Optional and specialized
Required Documents for Enrollment:
- Residence permit or proof of registration
- Birth certificate
- Previous school records (translated)
- Immunization records
Children are often placed in preparatory classes to learn Finnish before joining regular classes.
Step 5: Health Insurance and Medical Care
Finland has a public healthcare system that covers residents. Once you and your family receive your personal identity codes (henkilötunnus) and register your place of residence, you can access healthcare services.
For Non-EU/EEA Citizens:
- Must have private health insurance before residency is granted.
- After registration, you can access Kela (Social Insurance Institution) benefits.
Kela Covers:
- Child healthcare
- Parental allowances
- Maternity grants
- Basic health services
- Family benefits
Step 6: Financial Requirements and Family Income Threshold
When relocating to Finland with your partner and children, you must show that you can financially support them.
2025 Monthly Income Requirements:
| Family Size | Required Net Income |
|---|---|
| 1 adult | €1,200 |
| 1 adult + 1 child | €1,500 |
| 2 adults + 1 child | €2,000 |
| 2 adults + 2 children | €2,300 |
| Each additional child | +€300 |
These numbers can change annually. Always verify with Migri.fi.
Step 7: Settle Into Finnish Life
Once you’ve arrived, begin settling in gradually.
7.1 Register at the Local DVV Office
- Get your personal identity code
- Register your place of residence
- Register your family relationship status
7.2 Learn Finnish or Swedish
- Most people speak English, but learning Finnish or Swedish is key to long-term integration.
- Language classes are often free for residents.
7.3 Apply for Kela Benefits
- Submit an application online or at your local office.
- You may be eligible for:
- Child benefits
- Housing allowance
- Healthcare services
- Unemployment security
Step 8: Employment and Integration Support
Finland provides many integration services to help families settle.
Services Include:
- Free language and cultural classes
- Career counseling
- Job placement services
- Social workers for families
Popular Job Sectors:
- IT and software development
- Education and early childcare
- Nursing and healthcare
- Construction and engineering
Many jobs require Finnish or Swedish, but there are growing English-speaking opportunities.
Step 9: Cultural Adjustment Tips
Moving to Finland is exciting but can come with cultural adjustments.
What to Expect:
- Quiet and reserved people – Not unfriendly, just respectful of privacy.
- Punctuality – Being late is frowned upon.
- Cold winters – But homes are warm and well-insulated.
- Public transport – Reliable and family-friendly.
Conclusion: Start a New Chapter in Finland
Relocating to Finland with your partner and children is more than just a physical move; it’s a lifestyle transformation. With one of the best education systems, generous family benefits, and a clean, safe environment, Finland is an ideal place to raise a family.
To succeed in your relocation journey:
- Plan ahead and gather all documentation.
- Understand the residence permit process clearly.
- Secure accommodation and school placements early.
- Learn about healthcare and financial expectations.
- Use local services and integration programs to your advantage.
With the right preparation, your family can thrive and enjoy everything Finland has to offer.