How to Work and Immigrate to Finland as a Software Engineer?

Is Finland a Good Place for Software Engineers?

Is Finland good for IT professionals? Yes, Finland is a popular destination for IT professionals. It has a developed infrastructure, a robust technology sector, and a high quality of life. The Finnish workplace is notable for emphasizing innovation and healthy work-life balance. The healthcare and education in Finland are also world-class.

How to Immigrate to Finland as a Software Engineer?

To immigrate to Finland as a software engineer, you must go through several steps and considerations. Here’s a general guide to help you get started:

Step 1. Determine Your Eligibility

Make sure you meet the immigration eligibility requirements. The following factors are typically taken into account in Finland:

• Eligibility Criteria
  • To immigrate to Finland as a software engineer, you’ll need a job offer.
  • It is typically necessary to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the relevant field.
  • Experience in professional work should be between two and five years.
• Job Demand. Your advantage lies in the fact that the Finnish tech industry is constantly looking for software engineers.
• Language Skills. Learning Finnish can boost job opportunities and help you integrate into the workforce.
• Legal Requirements. Ensure your passport is valid and you are not facing any legal obstacles to entering the country.

Step 2. Job Search

If you’re looking for a software engineer job in Finland, reputable recruitment agencies like TalentIT and Barona IT are good places to start. These firms are well-connected and have a particular expertise in filling technical roles. Also, you can join professional networks like LinkedIn and attend tech-related events to expand your sphere of influence. Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and TE Services, the Finnish government’s job portal, are just a few of the many websites where you can look through job postings. Lastly, take the initiative to apply to companies that pique your interest and adapt your application materials accordingly.

Customize your resume for the Finnish job market. Include relevant skills and experience in your resume. The following tips will help you create a strong resume as a software engineer:

• Make sure it’s well-organized and concise.
• Contact information, skills, work experience, and education should be included.
• Create a customized application for each job.
• Make use of action verbs and quantify your accomplishments.
• Be meticulous when proofreading.
• Provide a link if you have a GitHub account or an online portfolio.
• Keep information relevant and up-to-date by removing irrelevant information.
• For every application, consider tailoring your cover letter.

Step 3. Apply for Jobs and Secure a Job Offer

You should apply for jobs that match your experience and qualifications. Prepare for interviews in person, on the phone, or via video.

Software engineers’ job contracts should include key information such as their names, contact information, the job title and description, the length of their employment, the hours they work, their salaries, probation periods, notice periods, holidays and leave details, work rules, termination conditions, references to collective agreements, and the signatures of both employers and employees. All of these elements contribute to a legally sound and comprehensive employment contract.

Step 4. Language Skills

According to job requirements and employer preferences, Finnish and English are commonly required for software engineers in Finland. To immigrate to Finland as a software engineer and demonstrate near-native English proficiency, you must take standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS. Some employers require proficiency tests for Finnish, but basic conversational skills can benefit you. Knowing the language requirements for Finnish jobs is crucial, so check them out.

Step 5. Work Visa

A job offer from a Finnish company is the most common route to immigrate to Finland as a software engineer. You should get a residence permit from your potential employer. If you’re a software engineer, ensure your job is in a field with a shortage of skilled workers.

1. Make sure your passport is valid for the length of your stay.
2. Specify your salary, job details, and terms of employment in a signed contract from your Finnish employer.
3. For your time in Finland, you’ll need comprehensive health insurance.
4. You can prove you have the money to support yourself during your stay.
5. Your passport-sized photos must meet the Finnish Immigration Service’s requirements.
6. Be sure to include copies of your education and work experience.
7. Fill out and submit the employment permit application form.
8. Application processes may require biometric data (fingerprints and photos).

Step 6. Residence Permit

As a software engineer, you must submit certain documents and follow a specific process to obtain a residency permit in Finland. Listed below are the steps and documents you will need:

Process

1. Job Offer. Find a job with a Finnish company. Most employers initiate the process of obtaining a residence permit on your behalf.
2. Application Form. Apply for a residence permit by completing the application form. The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) usually has this form on its website.
3. Biometrics. Depending on your nationality, you may need to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photos). You should schedule an appointment with the Finnish embassy or consulate in your area to do this.
4. Health Insurance. Your stay in Finland must be covered by comprehensive health insurance. As part of your application, you must provide proof of insurance.
5. Sufficient Funds. During your stay in Finland, show you have the financial resources to support yourself.
6. Valid Passport. You must have a valid passport for your stay in Finland.

Step 7. Healthcare and Social Security

Finland has a high-quality healthcare system that’s mostly public. Residents are usually covered by the public healthcare system, which is financed by taxes. For more comprehensive coverage, you can also get private health insurance, often offered by Terveystalo and Mehiläinen.

The Finnish social security system, funded by taxes, provides unemployment checks, family allowances, and pensions to residents and employees.

Finland has different income tax rates. For example, the personal income tax rate ranges from about 20% to 31.25% for most individuals, but you should check the most recent tax rates and regulations, as they can change.

Step 8. Housing

To immigrate to Finland as a software engineer, finding a place to live is important. When you get here, you can rent apartments, live in student housing, share housing, or stay in temporary housing. Finland has a lot of housing websites like Oikotie and Vuokraovi, and Forenom offers furnished short-term rentals. Consider location and proximity to work when looking for housing in a competitive city market.

Step 9. Integration

Get to know Finnish culture and society. You can integrate in Finland by following these tips:

• Connect with locals by understanding Finnish customs and traditions.
• Improve your daily interactions by learning basic Finnish.
• Meet people at local events and clubs.
• Find out what Finland has to offer outdoors.
• Make connections for your career and social life at tech events.
• You can get support and advice from expat communities.
• Be sure to follow Finland’s laws and regulations.
• Be respectful of Finnish work culture.

Step 10. Long-Term Residency

You typically need to live in Finland under a temporary residence permit for a specific amount of time before you can apply for long-term residency. You should also show financial stability, adequate language skills, and integration into Finnish culture.

Process

1. Make sure you meet the requirements, like the years of residency and language skills.
2. The Finnish Immigration Service will process your application for long-term residency.
3. In addition to reviewing your application, the authorities may conduct interviews if necessary.
4. If approved, long-term residence permits are usually valid for a few years.

Required Documents

• You must have a valid passport at all times
• Have proof of residence in Finland to prove you have lived there continuously.
• Records to show financial stability
• Show your language proficiency using recognized language tests.
• Provide evidence of integration, such as participation in Finnish social life.
• Your valid resident’s permit should be included.

Step 11. Stay Compliant

Make sure you’re following Finnish immigration and tax laws. Knowing your rights and responsibilities as a resident is important.

Tips for staying compliant with Finland law:

• Make sure your residence permit is valid and renewed.
• Pay your taxes on time.
• Contribute to health insurance and pensions.
• Follow the terms of the contract.
• Be sure to follow the Finnish laws.
• Make sure you meet the language requirements.
• Keep up with changes in the law.
• Organize your documents.
• Notify authorities of changes to your address.
• Being culturally aware is key to integrating.

How to Immigrate to Finland as a Software Engineer from the USA?

To immigrate to Finland as a software engineer from the USA, you must follow some key steps. Steps include:

• Getting a job offer.
• Applying for a residence permit.
• Learning some Finnish.
• Gathering the necessary documents.
• Submitting your application.
• Planning your move.
• Integrating after you move.

Follow the Finnish Immigration Service’s official website to stay on top of immigration regulations.

Is It Easy to Get a Software Job in Finland?

Finding a job to immigrate to Finland as a software engineer can be challenging. You’ll have to meet the qualifications and the market conditions to land a software job in Finland. Tech in Finland is booming, with many opportunities, especially in IT and gaming. English is widely used, but it depends on your experience and the city. Ensure your resume is tailored to the Finnish job market, apply actively, and network to increase your chances. It’s always good to know Finnish, even if it’s not mandatory.

How Much Do Software Engineers Make in Finland?

The average salary in Finland for software engineers is around 4,280 EUR. There are salaries ranging from 2,010 to 6,760 euros.

Immigrate to Finland as a Software Engineer: Salary Based on Experience

• Less than 2 years: approximately 2,400 EUR per month
• Between 2 and 5 years: 3,200 EUR per month
• Between 5 and 10 years: 4,600 EUR per month
• Between 10 and 15 years: 5,6000 EUR per month
• Between 15 and 20 years: 5,900 EUR per month
• More than 20 years: 6,400 EUR per month

Top Software Engineering Companies in Finland, MN

• C.H. Robinson
• Ameriprise Financial
• Best Buy
• State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company
• Optum

Highest Paying Cities for Software Engineers in Finland, MN

• Edina, MN: $126,750 per year
• Duluth, MN: $113,222 per year
• Eden Prairie, MN: $104,135 per year
• Minneapolis, MN: $101,965 per year
• Bloomington, MN: $100,847 per year
• Saint Paul, MN: $100,066 per year
• New Brighton, MN: $99,646 per year
• Richfield, MN: $95,841 per year
• Minnetonka, MN: $88,395 per year

Best Cities in Finland to Be a Software Engineer

Software engineers in Finland should consider the following cities:

• Helsinki
• Espoo
• Tampere
• Turku
• Oulu
• Vantaa
• Jyväskylä
• Kuopio
• Vaasa
• Lahti

Immigrate to Finland as a Software Engineer: Let’s Recap

Software engineers can move to Finland for excellent career prospects and a high quality of life. Finland is a great place to live if you follow the eligibility criteria, prepare the necessary documents, and embrace the local culture.

FAQs