Why Finland?
Seven years as the happiest country in the world—and counting. What’s Finland’s secret? From its famous saunas to a work-life balance unmatched globally, here’s what makes Finland unique.
-
Work-Life Balance: Where Work Works for You
In Finland, work is important, but it’s not everything. Flexible hours, generous parental leave, and long vacations make life feel balanced. It’s a place where leaving the office at 4 PM doesn’t raise eyebrows—and where a day off might mean a forest hike or a sauna session (or both).
Why It Works:
- Flexible working hours let you design a life that fits your needs.
- Parental leave is generous for both parents, so no one misses out.
- Long vacations mean you actually get to enjoy your hobbies—and your family.
Fact: Did you know Finland is one of the few countries where Only 4% of people work very long hours? Compare that to the OECD average of 10%
-
Nature: The Great Outdoors at Your Doorstep
Finland is mostly nature and studies show that regular time in nature boosts productivity, creativity, and mental well-being—no wonder Finns seem so grounded.
With 187,000 lakes, endless forests, and air so clean it feels like a detox for your lungs, there’s a kind of peace here you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re picking berries, skiing, or just staring at the Northern Lights, nature is never more than a few steps away.
Why It Works:
- Nature is integrated into daily life—you’re always close to a forest, park, sea or lake.
- Clean air and water are not luxuries; they’re givens.
- Finns embrace every season, from snowy winters to endless summer days.
Fact: Only 10% of Finland’s land-area is in urban or agricultural use while the remaining 90% consists of forests, rivers, lakes and wetlands.
-
Safety and Equality: Living Without Worry
Safety isn’t just a feeling in Finland—it’s a reality. Crime is low, corruption is almost non-existent, and gender equality is at the heart of everything we do. Want to email the president? You can. But don’t ask them where the best mushroom-picking spots are—that’s classified information.
Why It Works:
- Trust is high in public institutions, from schools to healthcare.
- Gender equality ensures everyone has a fair shot
- Safety and peace of mind mean you can focus on what really matters.
Fact: Transparency International ranked Finland as one of the least corrupt countries in the world.
Read What Others Think
-
![]()
The basis for Finland's consistent #1 position in happiness is explained by the high levels of trust and freedom in its society.
-
![]()
Finland has one of the most generous parental leave allowances in the world
-
![Finnish happiness by CNBC]()
Finnish people are happy because they have a strong sense of community and relatedness, do good deeds for other people, and find a clear purpose for themselves.
-
![]()
Running your everyday life in Finland is a bliss
-
![]()
Finland having more equitable schools, where you are likely to get a good education whichever you choose, as well as a fairer school policy than most countries (almost all Finns go to their nearest school) matters
-
![]()
Finland’s deep connection to nature plays a big role in its happiness. In fact, being in nature regularly has been shown to boost productivity and mental well-being
FAQ
Do I need to learn Finnish to work in Finland?
No, many companies, especially in tech and IT, operate in English. Local authorities often provide services in English too. Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, Swedish (Finland’s other official language) is faster to learn than Finnish!
What is the process for getting a work visa in Finland?
EU citizens don’t need a visa to move to Finland. Non-EU citizens will typically need a work or entrepreneur visa. Visit Migri.fi for details.
How much can I earn working in Finland?
Salaries vary by industry, but Finland offers competitive wages, especially in tech, education, and sustainability. Remember, the cost of living is balanced by high-quality public services.
What is the work-life balance like in Finland?
Work-life balance in Finland is one of the best in the world. Flexible hours, long vacations, and trust-based leadership mean you’ll have time to enjoy hobbies, family, and even a sauna session or two.
Is Finland a good place for families?
Absolutely. Finland offers world-class education, generous parental leave, and one of the safest environments for raising kids. Plus, nature is always nearby for family adventures.
What’s the work culture like in Finland?
Flat hierarchies, trust-based leadership, and sacred coffee breaks define Finnish workplaces. Don’t be surprised if your boss encourages you to leave early for a forest hike.
How do I find jobs in Finland?
Start your search on platforms like Jobs in Finland and LinkedIn. Check company career pages directly or use expat communities to network.
Can my spouse find work in Finland?
Yes, Finland supports accompanying spouses with programs like the Spouse Program, which helps them find jobs or meaningful activities.
How can I network with Finnish companies?
Use LinkedIn to connect with employees at your target companies. Don’t hesitate to post about your interest in moving to Finland—Finns might be shy, but they’re helpful when you ask!
