Finland, a Nordic country in Europe, is known not only for its breathtaking natural landscapes, high quality of life, and world-class public services but also for its growing job market, especially for foreigners. With Finland being a member of both the European Union and the Schengen Area, it has become an attractive destination for skilled professionals seeking new job opportunities.
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What is a Certified Employer in Finland?
In Finland, Certified Employers are organizations that are authorized by the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) to hire foreign workers and sponsor their work visas. These companies have undergone a certification process to ensure that they meet the necessary legal requirements for employing non-EU workers.
How do Certified Employers Work?
Once a company is certified, it can offer job opportunities to foreign workers who need a work visa to enter Finland. This means the employer is responsible for providing necessary documentation and assisting in the visa application process.
Foreign workers looking to move to Finland for employment need to apply for jobs with these certified employers, as they are the ones authorized to sponsor work visas.
Visa Requirements for Foreign Workers:
For EU citizens, there’s no need for a visa to work in Finland. However, non-EU citizens must apply for a visa through a certified employer. To ensure the process goes smoothly, here are some essential steps:
- Find a Certified Employer: Check the official list of certified employers in Finland (updated weekly by the Finnish Immigration Service).
- Apply for the Job: Submit your application through the employer’s job portal or the specific recruitment platform they use.
- Visa Application: Once you’re hired, your employer will assist you in submitting the visa application to Migri, ensuring that you meet the requirements.
- Await Approval: The processing time for work visa applications can vary, so make sure to plan ahead.
Why Finland Needs Foreign Workers:
Finland has faced increasing challenges with a shortage of skilled workers in certain industries. This has resulted in a growing demand for foreign labor, especially in fields like technology, healthcare, engineering, and education. Finland’s labor market benefits greatly from international talent, especially in emerging industries like ICT (Information and Communication Technology) and biotechnology, where the demand for skilled workers is consistently high.
How to Apply for Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Finland?
1. Research Certified Employers in Finland:
The first step in securing a visa sponsorship job in Finland is to identify the certified employers in the country. The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) maintains an updated list of certified employers, which you can access through their website. This list is updated regularly, ensuring that you have access to the most recent opportunities available.
Some well-known industries where you can find certified employers include:
- Technology (IT/Software Development)
- Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil)
- Healthcare (Nurses, Doctors, Medical Researchers)
- Education (Teachers, Researchers)
- Business (Finance, Marketing, Sales)
2. Visit Employer Websites and Apply for Jobs:
Once you’ve identified the employers that are certified to offer visa sponsorships, you can visit their websites and check out the job openings. Each company will have its own application process, so make sure you follow the specific instructions provided.
Some job portals you can use to find these opportunities include:
3. Submit Your Application:
When applying for a job in Finland, it’s important to tailor your resume and cover letter according to the Finnish standards. This includes:
- Concise CV: Finnish employers prefer clear and concise CVs, focusing on relevant skills, education, and work experience.
- Cover Letter: In the cover letter, briefly explain why you’re interested in the position and how your skills and experience align with the company’s needs.
- Certificates and Transcripts: You may need to provide translated certificates, diplomas, and reference letters to demonstrate your qualifications.
4. Wait for Employer’s Response and Visa Application Processing:
Once your application is submitted, employers will review your qualifications and may invite you for an interview. If successful, they will extend an offer, and you can proceed with the visa application process, which will be facilitated by the employer.
Popular Industries Hiring Foreign Workers in Finland:
Here are some industries where foreign workers are in high demand:
- ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Finland has a strong reputation in the tech sector, with many multinational companies looking for skilled developers, engineers, and data scientists. This includes roles in software development, cybersecurity, AI, and cloud computing.
- Healthcare: With an aging population, Finland is in dire need of healthcare professionals, particularly in nursing, elderly care, and medical research. Finland offers attractive salaries and benefits for healthcare professionals, including access to world-class healthcare.
- Engineering: Mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers are highly sought after, especially for large infrastructure projects and manufacturing.
- Education: Finland has one of the most respected educational systems globally, and the country is in need of skilled teachers, especially in international schools and in the fields of mathematics, science, and languages.
- Business and Management: Many companies are looking for professionals in business management, marketing, finance, and project management to help grow and expand their operations.
Benefits of Working in Finland:
1. High Quality of Life:
Finland consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world due to its excellent public services, low crime rates, and emphasis on work-life balance. Finland offers a clean, safe, and beautiful environment, with a wealth of natural resources, including forests, lakes, and national parks.
2. Competitive Salaries:
Salaries in Finland are competitive, especially in specialized fields. For instance, tech professionals and engineers can expect to earn between €40,000 to €70,000 annually, depending on experience. In healthcare, salaries can range from €35,000 to €60,000, while teaching salaries typically range from €35,000 to €50,000.
3. Comprehensive Social Security System:
Finland’s social security system provides an excellent safety net for employees and their families, including:
- Universal Healthcare: Finnish residents, including work visa holders, have access to world-class healthcare services.
- Pensions and Unemployment Benefits: Finland’s extensive social security system includes pensions for retirement, as well as unemployment benefits if you find yourself out of work.
4. Work-Life Balance:
Finland is known for its work-life balance, where employees can expect generous vacation time, family-friendly policies, and a reasonable number of working hours per week (typically 40 hours). Finland’s progressive attitude toward work-life balance means that workers can enjoy their personal time without sacrificing career advancement.
5. Opportunities for Career Advancement:
Working in Finland provides access to some of the most innovative and cutting-edge industries in the world, such as biotechnology, engineering, and renewable energy. Many Finnish companies are global leaders in their industries, offering ample opportunities for career development and professional growth.
Conclusion:
Finland presents a wealth of opportunities for foreign workers, particularly in high-demand industries such as technology, healthcare, and engineering. By following the steps outlined in this guide and leveraging resources like certified employers and job portals, you can increase your chances of securing a visa sponsorship job in this beautiful, innovative country.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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How much do you get paid working in Finland with visa sponsorship?
How much do Finnish visa sponsorship jobs pay per year? $75,000 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $81,500 is the 75th percentile.
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Is Finland looking for foreign workers?
Can foreigners find work in Finland? Yes. Currently, foreign workers are playing a major role in addressing Finland’s labor shortage, and the number of international talents is growing steadily. Finland’s vibrant start-up culture is responsible for global success stories such as Angry Birds, Supercell, and Wolt.
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Can I get a job visit visa in Finland?
You also can not work in Finland when visiting the country on a tourist visa. This means you must apply for a job and get your work visa approved while in India before moving to Finland.
