Do Russians need work in Finland today?

Deterioration of the political situation and migration processes

In the past year and a half, there has been a significant deterioration in the political situation between Russia and Finland, which is, of course, reflected in migration processes. With the arrival of the new government in Finland, a decision was made to close the consulate general in St. Petersburg, as well as offices in cities such as Petrozavodsk and Murmansk.

Strict entry rules for Russian citizens

Moreover, the entry rules for Russian citizens have become stricter: crossing the border with valid Schengen visas has become more difficult, and as of September 16, 2023, there are bans on the entry of passenger cars with Russian license plates. All these measures create certain difficulties for Russians. However, there is one encouraging piece of news for those looking to find employment in Finland —Work visas continue to be granted.

The demand for Russian-speaking specialists in the Finnish labor market

As for the demand for Russian-speaking specialists in the Finnish labor market, the situation remains quite diverse. Currently, the Russian-speaking population is the largest group of migrants in the country, second only to Estonians. There are about 100,000 Russian speakers in Finland, against a total population of 5.5 million, of which about 93% are ethnic Finns.

Increase in migration from Russia to Finland

In the past year 2022, more than 6,000 Russian citizens chose Finland for permanent residence, of whom 2,062 were granted Finnish citizenship. These are record figures for the last three decades, since the collapse of the Soviet Union. The main factors for this increase in migration are related to:

• Political instability.
• The difficulties faced by residents of Russia in their homeland.

Forecasts for future migration flows

Nevertheless, the Finnish Migration Service indicates that the peak of the migration flow may already have been reached and the number of new Russian migrants is likely to decrease markedly in the coming years. In 2023, only about 6,000 applications for residence permits are expected to be submitted, compared to about 9,000 in 2022.

Public opinion and the need for skilled workers

Despite the increasing restrictions imposed by Finland, it is worth noting that public opinion in the country remains predominantly positive towards Russians. Overall, Finland has a demand for both temporary and permanent skilled workers. Detailed information can be found in the section dedicated to in-demand professions.

Economic difficulties in Finland

At the same time, we cannot forget about the current economic difficulties facing the Finnish economy, which is on the brink of recession. Economic experts from the Pellervo Institute predict that the unemployment rate in the country will rise from 7.3% to 8.5% in 2024, and the number of unemployed will increase by another 50,000 people, adding to the current 90,000 unemployed.

Introduction

With the increasing competition in the job market in Finland, the local population may become less welcoming to migrants. In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the number of immigrants in the country; however, current predictions could alter these trends. Nevertheless, Finland still shows openness and friendliness towards foreigners.

Finland's attractiveness to migrants

The high quality of life, sense of security, and social protection provided, along with the relative proximity to home, make moving to this country quite appealing. The Finnish job market offers a wide range of vacancies with attractive salaries.

Aging population as a challenge

However, one of the key challenges for the country is the aging population. The number of working Finns has been gradually declining for over two decades.

• Many skilled professionals are seeking opportunities in other European countries, where they are offered a higher income level.
• Finnish residents are more likely to choose more comfortable activities, avoiding physically demanding work.

This leads to a significant labor shortage in areas such as construction, transportation, agronomy, childcare, and elderly care, as well as in the hospitality and retail sectors.

Employment opportunities

If you have a professiondoctor,programmer,engineer,chemist,teacheroreconomistYou have every chance of successfully finding a job in Finland. You shouldn't limit yourself to just office vacancies, as there are also opportunities in fields such as agriculture, construction, or auto service.

Job search

The best way to start job searching is with reliable sources of information. An important step can be visiting the official website of the Ministry of Employment and the Economy of Finland. This resource provides a wealth of useful information on employment, addresses of all employment centers across the country, as well as the ability to search for job vacancies based on your qualifications.

In addition, you will be able to familiarize yourself with the offers of local companies, as well as find out about internships and educational courses available in the country. The website also has a Russian-language counseling service that supports people planning to move to Finland.

Additional resources

Don't forget to visit the European Union's website, which provides a variety of information about employment and other aspects of life in European countries. The Occupational Safety Administration portal offers a wealth of useful materials on labor relations, including tips on drafting employment contracts, as well as issues related to wages and working conditions.

Job search platforms

For those who prefer a more independent search, there are many platforms available on the internet:

• For Russian-speaking applicants, such sites aseurabota24ru.comanddoska.fi.
• Platforms like these are perfect for English-speaking professionals.adeccowork.fi,experteer.comandrecruitment.

Each of these platforms is characterized by a variety of job opportunities, and that's where you can find the right offer for you.

Job opportunities on Finnish websites

Finnish web resources offer extensive opportunities for job searching. Among them, notable sites include jobly, oikotie, careerjet, uraopas, tekniikan työt, staffpoint, and bisonia, where current job vacancies are posted.

There are also specialized resources, such as Boyden, which offers job vacancies for top executives, and Barona, focused on technical fields including IT, construction, industry, and logistics. These platforms also feature job offers in the medical field.

Information about employment in libraries

Large libraries, such as the Helsinki Central Library, can also provide useful employment information. To make your search easier, it is worth looking at recruitment agencies that can help you find a list of job vacancies that match your individual needs.

These professionals can not only help you find the perfect job, but also handle communication with potential employers, manage the necessary paperwork, and provide information about the job market in Finland.

Before using such services, it is important to remember that the cost can vary from150 to 300 eurosnot including visa fees and transportation costs.

Choosing a recruitment agency

When choosing an agency, it is important to make sure that it has a tax registration number. Without it, it will be impossible to work legally in the European Union.

This includes reliable companies such as:

• VPS
• Aaresaari

These companies work with qualified specialists who have higher education.

Internships for students

Finland also offers a variety of excellent internship programs for students, especially in fields such as:

• ecology
• programming
• tourism
• studying Finnish and English languages

To participate in the internship, several conditions must be met:

• to be over 18 years old
• to be at least in the second year of university
• have knowledge of one of the international languages - English, Finnish or Swedish

A complete list of educational institutions participating in such programs can be found on the study in Finland website. The main organization responsible for coordinating internships and distributing scholarships is the Finnish Center for International Mobility (CIMO). There is also the opportunity to undertake a paid internship at Finnish companies.

Independent job search

Additionally, a good practice is to independently search for jobs through various social networks, specialized online forums, as well as company websites from Finland. It's important to pay attention to local newspapers and engage with residents who can share valuable information.

If you are already in Finland, you should pay attention to the announcements that are often posted on the streets or in institutions where job vacancies have special boards for postings. You can also visit the human resources department.

Requirements for foreign workers

It is important to consider the requirements for foreign workers. Knowledge of Finnish or English is a key criterion for finding highly qualified job vacancies.

In some cases, such as for specialists in information technology, a good command of English is sufficient. However, for professions related to physical labor, such as factory work, construction, or harvesting, it is possible to find a job with minimal knowledge of English or Finnish, and sometimes even without any language skills, especially if the employer is from the former Soviet Union countries.

Language courses in Finland

In Finland, foreigners have the opportunity to take Finnish language courses lasting six months, which significantly facilitates their integration and helps them achieve a basic level of language proficiency.

Confirmation of qualifications

The procedure for confirming professional qualifications can vary greatly depending on the specialty. For example, medical professionals will need to:

• Translate all documents into Finnish.
• Submit them for consideration;
• Wait for a response with further instructions;
• In some cases, pass a professional exam.

For information on special professions requiring validation of diplomas and the relevant organizations involved, it is worth referring to the website of the Finnish National Board of Education.

Short-term visas

There are also visas for short-term stays, where in some cases it is sufficient to have a work contract and a visa valid for up to 90 days. Professions that fall into this category include:

• Teachers;
• Translators;
• Athletes;
• Judges;
• Coaches;
• Artists;
• Harvesting and sorting workers;
• Sailors;
• Specialists in the scientific field.

If your work is related to harvesting and does not exceed three months, it is sufficient to obtain a seasonal work visa F1. However, an important point is to receive an invitation from the employer. To apply for the visa, you will need to submit an application, a foreign passport, photographs, medical insurance, and a receipt for the consular fee. All documents must be submitted in person at the Finnish embassy.

Tips for preparing documents

It is recommended to prepare the whole package of documents in advance, at least three months before the planned trip, to avoid long queues, especially in the run-up to the harvest season.

Residence permit for permanent work

To get a permanent job in Finland, it is necessary to obtain a residence permit that allows for employment. This document is a plastic card that contains a photo and biometric data of the holder.

It combines the functions of a visa and a work permit with the TTOL designation, which indicates all the professions you are eligible to work in. Moreover, this residence permit will protect you in case you lose your job:

• In that case, you will be able to find a job in another organization.
• This is possible due to the availability of specialists of your qualification.

The process of obtaining a residence permit

The process of obtaining a residence permit requires having an employer and prior approval from the authorities, which makes it quite lengthy and demanding of attention. Preparing the necessary documents and waiting for responses can take a significant amount of time, so it is important to know all the steps in advance and gather the documents to minimize potential delays.

Documents for obtaining a residence permit in Finland

To obtain a residence permit in Finland, it is necessary to prepare a number of key documents. The first step is to fill out an application form, which is recommended to be done through the official website of the immigration service.

List of required documents

• A photocopy of the foreign passport, which must be valid longer than the period of validity of the requested residence permit.
• Two photographs measuring 47×36 mm, which can be either color or black and white; the photographs must have been taken no earlier than six months before the application is submitted.
• A document confirming the right to obtain a residence permit: this can be a certificate of study, an employment contract, or an extract from the commercial register.
• Proof of financial stability, such as bank statements, may be required in some cases.

An important stage is alsoproof of consular fee paymentDepending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required.

Consequences of not having a residence permit

It is important to remember that working without a residence permit or staying in the country on a regular visa can lead to serious consequences, including deportation and a ten-year ban on entering European Union countries.

The first work residence permit is issued for a period of up to one year or until the end of the employment contract. In some cases, when the applicant previously held Finnish citizenship, the duration can be extended up to four years.

Obtaining permanent resident status

Statuspermanent residentYou can obtain it after four years of continuous residence in Finland, provided you spend at least six months a year in the country. The right to apply for citizenship arises after five years of legal residence.

Lack of qualified personnel

Finland is facing a shortage of skilled workers, which is prompting the country to attract foreign specialists.

The process of obtaining work visas has become more convenient and automated: employers and job seekers can submit documents online. Employers are required to verify the qualifications of their new employees themselves, which reduces the amount of documentation needed for migrants.

Reduction of application processing times

One of the significant achievements has been the reduction of the processing time for work residence permits to one month. For certain categories of labor migrants, this procedure can take as little as two weeks.

For more detailed information about the various categories of people wishing to obtain a work visa, special tables are available.

Requirements for foreigners in Finland

In Finland, there are specific conditions for obtaining a work and residence permit. Foreign specialists wishing to work in this country must have an employment contract with a Finnish company and meet certain criteria for highly qualified professionals. As of 2023, obtaining a work permit requires a high level of qualification andan income of around 36,000 euros per yearIf a foreigner does not have a higher education, it is necessary to provide an explanation of how their professional activity is specialized and requires specialized knowledge.

Requirements for beginner entrepreneurs

For beginner entrepreneurs, specific rules have been established. First of all, they need to preparea clear and detailed business plan...which will be evaluated by the relevant authorities, such as Business Finland. The startup team must consist of at least two members. The founders must also have sufficient financial resources to support their stay in Finland for at least a year, which amounts to approximately...1000 euros per person per monthThese funds need to be shown to confirm your financial stability.

Translation of employees in corporate companies

As for corporate employees, there are opportunities for transfer to Finnish subsidiaries.

Job search in major cities of Finland

In large cities in Finland, especially in Helsinki, finding a suitable job can be done with much less difficulty. However, it is important to consider that the cost of living in these metropolises is quite high. In this article, we will try to determine which city in the country is considered the most attractive for employment, and it is far from being Helsinki.

Requirements for qualifications in the labor market

Finland, like many other European countries, shows a clear preference for highly skilled workers in its labor market. Among the most in-demand professions, we can highlight:

• medical workers
• teachers
• accountants and economists
• experts in the field of information technology
• engineers
• chemists
• ecologists
• energy specialists

Job openings for workers without a higher education.

Upon careful examination of job vacancies on various platforms, it becomes clear that there are many offers available for workers without higher education. In Finland, there is a constant demand for workers in:

• construction (builders, installers, masons)
• provision of social services (nannies, caregivers)
• drivers, waiters, and salespeople
• electricians

However, it should be noted that for most positions in the social sector, fluency in Finnish is a mandatory requirement.

Salary level

As for the wage level, there is no single minimum rate in the country. Payment conditions are set at the regional level as a result of collective negotiations between trade unions and employers. Trade union organizations play an important role in this system, protecting workers' rights and ensuring compliance with labor norms and standards across different sectors.

For the year 2023, the minimum income is approximately from€1800 to €2000Before taxes, with specific figures varying depending on the profession. On average, workers in Finland earn about€3800monthly.

Average income across the country

There is also an online platform that provides the opportunity to assess the average annual income in the country. According to information from September 2023, the average salary is€59,203per year, and the most common income is —€41,810After taxation, these amounts are reduced by€40,184and€28,466accordingly.

Difference in wages

It is worth noting that there is a certain difference in salary between men and women. For instance, the average income of men reaches€62,537while women earn only€47,770.

The impact of education on salary

The level of education also significantly affects the salary amount. The highest incomes are earned by those with doctoral degrees, whose annual income is around€72,500...followed by master's degree holders, who earn on average...€65,562.

Work experience and its role in salary

Work experience also significantly affects the salary level. Employees with 16-20 years of experience can expect to€84,954while workers with more than 20 years of experience earn on average€84,243.

Professions with the highest earnings

When it comes to specific professions, the highest returns can be expected from:

• doctors
• company executives
• experts in the field of human resource management
• sales and business development specialists
• financiers
• project managers

The average salary for administrative and commercial directors, as well as procurement and sales managers, remains at a fairly high level.

Salary in Finland

In Finland, it can be observed that certain professions have significantly low wage levels. This includes laundry workers, kitchen assistants, and cleaners.

To better understand the average salary in the country, it is necessary to consider various fields of employment. For example, doctors, especially surgeons, are at the top of the salary ladder — their annual income is approximately€120,000For sales managers, the salary can reach€95,000and leading electrical engineers earn around€76,000Popular web developers earn on average€70,000As for workers in the construction sector, their annual earnings amount to approximately€57,000while sellers earn about€40,000...and graphic designers can expect an income of...€37,000Workers on production lines typically earn around€32,000per year.

Difference in salary

It should also be noted that salaries in the same profession can vary significantly depending on the employee's qualifications and the region they live in. For example, in the capital, salaries can be much higher.15-20%Higher than in other regions. Temporary workers, such as builders, assembly line workers, and farmers, can expect varying pay depending on their experience and the complexity of the work performed.

• Electricians and installersreceive from€10 to €12at one o'clock;
• Builderscan count on€15–€17for an hour's work.

However, it is important to remember that this type of employment also involves covering additional food expenses (around€5–7per day) and accommodation (from€3 to €5per day). Sometimes free accommodation may be provided, and meals can be supplied by farmers or employers.

Living conditions

However, it is not worth expecting to live in luxurious conditions: often, temporary housing is a dormitory with several people in one room. Nevertheless, the conditions are usually quite comfortable, with bathrooms and showers on the floor and cleanliness being maintained.

Searching for information about professions

You can find interesting professions on specialized online resources that offer up-to-date information about salaries. The income difference for the same profession can be significant depending on professional qualifications and the region of residence. In the capital, you can earn on15-20%more than the national average.

Opportunities for foreigners

Foreigners can also obtain a residence permit for business activities in Finland, which provides an opportunity to develop their own business in Finland. The process of registering a business for migrants is very similar to that practiced for locals, including access to loans and grants.

Finland is renowned for its stable and predictable economic environment, and inin 2022more than was registered3800new startups.

Tax system

As for the tax system, Finland has both federal and local income taxes, depending on the type of income earned and the taxpayer's region.

• Municipal taxes range from17%to22.5%depending on the level of income;
• Social contributions are also mandatory to pay.

The main tax for individuals is income tax, which occupies an important place in the tax system of the country.

General information about taxes in Finland

Finland attracts a diverse range of people, including working taxpayers, students, retirees, and even those receiving social benefits. The tax system here is progressive, with rates set at both the federal and local levels, varying according to the financial situation of citizens.

First of all, there is a tax-free income threshold of up to €17,600 per year. Anything above this threshold is subject to taxation at the following rates:

• From €17,600 to €26,400 — 6%
• From €26,400 to €43,500 — 17.25%
• From €43,500 to €76,100 — 21.25%
• For incomes above €76,100 — 31.25%

Prospects for changes in tax rates

It should be noted that the new government of Finland plans to gradually lower tax rates, so it is useful to keep an eye on current events in this area.

Taxes for individuals

The personal income tax in Finland is not the only tax that citizens must pay. Employees are obligated to pay:

• Pension contributions of 7.1%
• Contributions for illness and unemployment - 2.7%
• Church tax of 1.2%
• Contributions for health insurance (0.5%)
• Television tax (0.2%)

There are also other taxes that depend on the ownership of personal property, cars, and other assets. In the end, the average tax rate is about40%from the total annual income.

Advantages of living in Finland for foreigners

As for life in this country for foreigners, Finland was named the happiest country in the UN World Happiness Report in 2022, marking the fifth consecutive time it has received this title. This makes the country attractive to many foreigners who wish to settle here permanently.

Finland impresses those who appreciate nature, care about the environment, and lead an active, healthy lifestyle. However, for those expecting a vibrant social life and evening entertainment, the Finnish reality may seem somewhat dull, as the country is more suited for introverts.

Pros and cons of living in Finland

Foreigners note various pros and cons of living in Finland. Among the positive aspects are:

• Stunning natural landscapes
• Excellent conditions for outdoor activities, such as cycling and hiking trails.
• A stable economy that ensures a high level of security.
• Quality and affordable medical care
• High life expectancy of the population
• Good working conditions
• Rational distribution of working time and rest
• The availability of high-speed internet and modern online services

However, critical remarks are also valid. There is a lack of:

• Vibrant nightlife
• Cultural events

In this regard, Finland is on par with less attractive countries. Career opportunities may be limited, and salary levels do not always meet expectations, even though they are comparable to those in other Scandinavian countries. Therefore, it is important to consider not only the positive aspects but also the potential challenges if you decide to move to Finland.

Conclusion

When considering the employment issues of Russians in Finland, it becomes clear that the current situation is driven not only by economic factors but also by the political climate. Relations between the two countries have noticeably cooled, which has manifested in the closure of consular institutions and the introduction of restrictions for Russians. However, despite these challenges, the labor market in Finland still opens its doors to foreign specialists, and this fact should not be overlooked.

According to statistical data, the number of Russians seeking job or permanent residency opportunities in Finland has been increasing in recent years. Although there is currently a trend of decreasing migrant flow, professionals from Russia still find their niches there. It is important to note that Finnish society, despite political tensions, remains relatively loyal to Russians. Furthermore, economic realities continue to dictate the need for the involvement of foreign personnel in various industries.

Labor market prospects

Against the backdrop of the forecast for unemployment in the country to rise to 8.5% as early as next year, I understand that competition in the job market may intensify. However, on the other hand, this does not mean that the chances of finding employment are reduced to zero. Many sectors, such as:

• Medicine,
• IT,
• Construction,
• Service.

There is still a shortage of qualified specialists. Considering that the Finnish population is aging, there is a real opportunity to become a valuable worker in such a necessary field.

Recommendations for finding a job

I would recommend that those interested in relocating carefully research current job openings and utilize available resources for job searching. Since highly skilled professionals are always in demand, it's important to stay attuned to the needs of the local market.

Conclusion

In conclusion, emigrating to Finland can have a significant impact on your career and life in general, especially if you are willing to adapt and learn the language. Moving to a new country always comes with challenges, but with the right approach and persistence, even in the current instability, I believe that finding a decent job in Finland is quite possible. Therefore, if you are attracted by the opportunity to live and work in this country, don't miss the chance to explore the available options.