Working in Finland
As an international student, you have the right to work part-time and to seek employment in Finland after graduating.
Note on Employment: Speaking Finnish is considered extremely necessary to find a job. Finding a part-time job in English as a student could be a challenge.
While Studying
Student Working Rights
Students in the Finland can work in any field for an average of 30 hours per week.
There is no maximum amount of money you can earn during these hours.
Wages
Finland does not have a national minimum wage. Instead, your wage will depend on the field you work in.
Students typically earn €9 - 13/hour. On average students earn €2,000-€2,500 per month with a part time job or internship.
After Graduating
Job Seeker Visa
After graduation, you can apply for a two-year permit to seek work or start a business.
To qualify for this permit you will have to prove you have sufficient funds of €800/month to support yourself during your job search.
Permanent residence is possible after four years on a continuous residence permit, including your study period, especially if you are employed post-graduation.
Key Industries in Finland
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Tech & Digital
Finland is known for its embrace of innovation, with Helsinki being regarded as the Startup center of Northern Europe.
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![Large white cruise ship named 'COLOR MAGIC' sailing through foggy waters near snowy land and forested hills at sunset.]()
Maritime
With an expansive coastline and strategic geopolitical location, the maritime, port, and shipbuilding industries thrive in Finland.
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Motor Industry
Along with shipbuilding, Finland has a large industrial machinery industry producing tractors, trucks, military vehicles, and buses.
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Biotech & Clean Tech
Finland is investing in the circular economy. The country’s roots in forestry lay the foundation for research and development of clean tech.
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![Snow-covered landscape with trees and mountains under a pink and gray sky.]()
Forestry
Historically, pulp and paper made up one of Finland’s largest exports. Now the industry is reshaping thanks to the tech and innovation spaces to focus on green and renewable solutions, such as wood-based plastics alternatives and fully biodegradable packaging.
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![Three wind turbines on a hilltop at sunset with a pink and purple sky in the background, and snow-capped fields and forests in the distance.]()
Clean Energy
Finland’s energy is 40% renewable, including biomass, wind, hydroelectric, and solar energy, with the aim of being carbon-neutral by 2035.
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