Lana Oconnell
International students in Finland are allowed to work, but they must have a residence permit. Students with a residence permit can work in paid employment in any field for an average of 30 hours per week. This limit can be exceeded during some weeks, as long as the average number of working hours does not exceed 30 hours per week at the end of the year. During holidays, students may work full-time, provided that their average working hours do not exceed the 30-hour limit. Finland also offers a 2-year post-study permit, which allows international students to look for work or start a business after graduation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Work hours for international students | 30 hours per week on average |
| Work hours during holidays | Full-time, provided the average is 30 hours per week at the end of the year |
| Work hours per month | 120 hours |
| Work hours per year | 1,560 hours |
| Work hours for diploma work or internships | No limit |
| Work hours for students with residence permits before 15 April 2022 | 30 hours per week on average |
| Residence permit type for students | Continuous (A) for higher education, Temporary (B) for non-degree programs |
| Residence permit validity | Entire duration of studies in Finland |
| Residence permit requirements | Proof of funds for the first year (560 euros/month or 6,720 euros/year) |
| Post-study permit | 2 years to look for work or start a business |
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What You'll Learn
- International students can work in Finland for up to 30 hours a week on a student residence permit
- Students can work full-time during holidays, provided the yearly average is under 30 hours a week
- A student residence permit is not required for unpaid internships
- Finland offers a 2-year post-study permit to allow graduates to search for work or start a business
- Students must have insurance to cover medical and pharmaceutical expenses
International students can work in Finland for up to 30 hours a week on a student residence permit
International students can work in Finland for up to 30 hours a week, provided they have a student residence permit. This permit can be granted as a national permit or under the Students and Researchers Directive (EU) 2016/801. A national residence permit is for those pursuing studies that do not lead to a higher education degree, while the directive permit is for those seeking a higher education degree and may involve studying in a second EU member state.
To obtain a residence permit, students must demonstrate sufficient funds for living in Finland and take out private insurance to cover medical and pharmaceutical expenses. The permit allows students to work in any field, and the weekly 30-hour limit is calculated as an average over the year. This means that some weeks may exceed 30 hours, and during holidays, students may work full-time as long as the annual average is maintained.
For students pursuing apprenticeship training as part of their degree, the rules are slightly different. If the apprenticeship training constitutes less than half of their studies, they can study with a residence permit for studies. However, if the apprenticeship training accounts for half or more of their studies, they will need to apply for a residence permit for employed persons. In this case, their work hours will be determined by the residence permit for employed persons.
Additionally, Finland offers a two-year post-study permit, allowing graduates to search for work or start a business in the country. This provides an opportunity for international students to gain employment in Finland after completing their studies. Learning Finnish or Swedish is recommended to improve one's chances of finding employment.
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Students can work full-time during holidays, provided the yearly average is under 30 hours a week
International students in Finland are allowed to work in any field for an average of 30 hours per week. This is a recent development, as previously, international students were only allowed to work for a maximum of 25 hours per week. The new legislation, established on April 15, 2022, also allows students to work full-time during holidays, provided the yearly average does not exceed 30 hours a week. This means that students can work more than 30 hours some weeks, as long as the average number of working hours does not exceed 30 hours per week by the end of the year.
To work in Finland, international students must obtain a residence permit. There are two types of residence permits: a national permit and a permit under the Students and Researchers Directive (EU) 2016/801. The type of permit depends on the student's level of education. If a student is pursuing a higher education degree, they can be granted a continuous (A) residence permit, which allows them to work part-time during their studies and full-time during holidays. For other degrees, students can be granted a temporary (B) residence permit.
It is important to note that the residence permit requirements may vary for students doing apprenticeship training. If a student completes less than half of their studies in apprenticeship training, they can study with a residence permit for studies. However, if they complete half or more of their studies in apprenticeship training, they will need to apply for a residence permit for employed persons, and their right to work will be determined by this permit.
Additionally, students in Finland must have valid insurance. Private insurance is required to cover medical and pharmaceutical expenses, and students must personally cover the costs if they become ill.
Overall, international students in Finland have the opportunity to work full-time during holidays, as long as their yearly average working hours do not exceed 30 hours per week. This provides flexibility and the ability to earn additional income during extended breaks from their studies.
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A student residence permit is not required for unpaid internships
International students intending to study in Finland are required to obtain a residence permit. There are two types of residence permits: national permits and permits under the Students and Researchers Directive (EU) 2016/801. The type of permit depends on the nature of the student's intended study. A national residence permit is granted to students pursuing studies that do not lead to a higher education degree. On the other hand, a residence permit under the Directive is for those seeking to obtain a higher education degree and allows students to complete part of their studies in a second EU member state.
While a residence permit is typically required for international students in Finland, there are specific cases where a student residence permit is not necessary. One such case relates to unpaid internships. According to Finnish regulations, a student residence permit is not required if the internship is unpaid. This means that individuals can engage in unpaid internships without the need for a specific residence permit associated with that activity. However, it is important to note that internships, whether paid or unpaid, cannot be carried out solely on the basis of a visa or visa-free.
The requirement for a residence permit during an internship in Finland depends on the nature of the internship and the student's primary purpose in the country. If an individual is primarily in Finland as a student and their internship is a mandatory or integral part of their degree, they do not need a separate residence permit for the internship, regardless of whether it is paid or unpaid. In such cases, their student residence permit covers their internship as long as it is a part of their degree program.
It is worth noting that the regulations regarding internships and residence permits in Finland are subject to change and updates. Students considering internships in Finland should always refer to the latest official information provided by Finnish authorities and consult with their educational institution to ensure they have the most current and accurate understanding of the requirements. Additionally, while a student residence permit may not be required for unpaid internships, other types of permits or visas may still be necessary depending on the individual's specific circumstances and the nature of the internship opportunity.
In conclusion, while international students in Finland generally need a residence permit for their studies, a separate student residence permit is not required specifically for unpaid internships that are a part of their degree program. However, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest regulations and ensure compliance with all necessary visa and permit requirements when seeking internship opportunities in Finland.
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Finland offers a 2-year post-study permit to allow graduates to search for work or start a business
International students in Finland are allowed to work in paid employment in any field for an average of 30 hours per week. During holidays, students are allowed to work full-time, as long as their average working hours do not exceed 30 hours per week over the year. This is an increase from the previous limit of 25 hours per week.
Finland offers a two-year post-study permit for international students who wish to remain in the country after graduation to search for work or start a business. This permit provides graduates with the opportunity to leverage their qualifications and gain valuable work experience in Finland.
The process of obtaining a residence permit in Finland has been streamlined with recent legislation. International students no longer need to reapply for a residence permit each academic year, instead receiving a permit for the duration of their studies. This permit can be either continuous (A) or temporary (B). A continuous permit is granted to those pursuing higher education degree studies, while a temporary permit is given to those in vocational education or a non-degree program.
It is important to note that students are still required to demonstrate sufficient funds for their first year of residence in Finland. This typically amounts to 560 euros per month or 6,720 euros annually. Additionally, students must have private insurance to cover medical and pharmaceutical expenses.
Overall, Finland's post-study permit and improved residence permit process aim to attract and retain international students, providing them with enhanced opportunities for employment and establishing a career in the country.
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Students must have insurance to cover medical and pharmaceutical expenses
International students in Finland are required by law to have health insurance. The Finnish government mandates that all students have adequate international health insurance while studying in the country. This is enforced when students apply for their visas.
Students must take out private insurance to cover their medical and pharmaceutical expenses. This is a prerequisite for obtaining a residence permit. The type of insurance required depends on the student's country of origin and the duration of their studies in Finland. If a student has a Kela card, a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), or a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), they are exempt from taking out additional insurance. However, the card must remain valid throughout their stay in Finland.
For students who need to purchase insurance, the deductible must not exceed €300, and the policy maximum varies depending on the duration of their studies. If studying less than two years (less than four semesters), the policy maximum is €120,000. If studying at least two years (four semesters or more), the policy maximum is €40,000.
Popular insurance plans that meet the requirements include Atlas Travel, Student Secure, and Europe Travel. These plans provide visa letters as proof of coverage immediately after purchase. It is important to note that health insurance is accessible and affordable for all international students in Finland, and it is recommended that students familiarise themselves with the healthcare system and ensure they have the necessary coverage.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students need a residence permit to work in Finland. This permit can be granted as a national permit or under the Students and Researchers Directive (EU) 2016/801.
International students with residence permits are allowed to work for a maximum of 30 hours per week on average. During holidays, students may work full-time as long as their average working hours do not exceed 30 hours per week for the year.
No, international students with residence permits can work in any field and are not restricted to part-time or full-time employment.
Yes, international students can undertake internships as part of their degree. However, internships cannot be carried out visa-free or with a visa. A residence permit is required for internships, and the internship must provide monetary compensation.
To obtain a residence permit, international students must meet specific requirements and demonstrate sufficient funds for living expenses during their stay. The type of permit depends on whether the student is pursuing a higher education degree or a non-degree program. Students must also take out private insurance to cover medical and pharmaceutical expenses.
