The sauna plays a significant role in Finnish culture and society, which may come as a surprise to foreigners who wish to relocate there but are not familiar with the local way of life. If you enjoy astral phenomena, you should visit Finland in the fall, winter, or spring to see the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights.
Finland has far more to offer than you might think for a country with 5.5 million residents, gorgeous woods, snow-capped mountains, and cities that promise an affluent, peaceful new life for an expat.
Finland, which has borders with Sweden in the west, Russia in the east, Norway in the north, and Estonia in the south, embodies the allure of the European way of life: a bustling city life with a weekend getaway home in the woods.
Finland is the most sparsely populated country in Europe, with only roughly 15 people per square kilometer. Nearly 75% of its scenery is made up of flatlands covered in coniferous forests, which make up the majority of its topography. Over 180,000 lakes spread out across the nation share space with the green.
Preparations
In Finnish newspapers and online portals, you can browse for real estate listings and locate several agents who can assist you in your quest. It is worthwhile to check with the local governments since they also maintain rental accommodation directories and information.
In Finland, the vast majority of apartments are unfurnished, however, the majority do have a modest kitchen with an oven and refrigerator. Additionally, some units have additional utility fees. In the city, the average monthly cost of utilities including electricity, gas, and water is €90. A local prepaid mobile call costs $0.10 per minute, and your monthly internet subscription is roughly €20.
House and apartment hunting
Since there aren’t many places to rent in Finland, most foreigners choose to buy homes instead. You won’t easily find one, not even in big cities. Due to the lack of houses for rent, the most prevalent sort of rental, out of the few that are available, will be an apartment. Upon moving in, a security deposit of up to three months’ worth of rent will be requested by the landlord. Keep in mind that the cost of renting increases as you get closer to the metropolis.
Since it is the nation’s capital and where some of the flats are located, Helsinki is at the top of the list for ex-pats. Your daily requirements can be satisfied at malls, stores, and restaurants. You will be conveniently close to the business center if you live here. In Helsinki, a one-bedroom apartment typically costs €900 a month, while a three-bedroom home costs about €1700.
International and local schools
All children and full-time students are entitled to free education in Finland, which takes pride in its educational system. All youngsters between the ages of 7 and 16 must attend school. No of their nationality, language, age, or financial situation, everyone in the nation is granted equal access to education.
Finland is home to renowned international schools like the International School of Helsinki and the Finnish International School of Tampere.
Even private schools are prohibited from imposing fees. The majority of the greatest private schools are faith-based, but there are also reputable local institutions that offer top-notch instruction, including the Universities of Helsinki and Turku.
Moving your belongings
Several shipping and moving businesses offer “door to door” services. They will handle every aspect of relocating, including gathering and delivering your possessions to your new residence. Depending on your country of origin, shipping times usually vary, but the typical travel time to Finland is 14–16 days. The Port of Helsinki is the nation’s biggest port and the location where the majority of containers arrive.
All animals traveling to Finland should arrive with an original copy of their rabies certificate. Your veterinarian should also provide you with a Commercial EU Vet Health Certificate, which is a universal health document for all domestic animals.
