Finland offers nurses a unique opportunity to experience a new country while continuing their career. The scenic Nordic nation values healthcare professionals and makes the process of relocating straightforward. If you’ve ever dreamed of living overseas, working as a nurse in Finland could be the ideal way to blend adventure with a stable career.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the move. We’ll cover the application process, requirements, costs, and more. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether a nursing role in Finland is the right next step for you. Let’s get started on your international nursing journey!
The Benefits of Working as a Nurse in Finland
Before diving into the specifics, it’s worth understanding why so many choose Finland as their destination. Here are some of the top perks:
Work-life balance- Finland prioritizes a healthy work-home divide. The standard workweek is 37.5 hours, and generous paid leave is mandated by law. This allows nurses to fully recharge.
Stable healthcare system- Finland has a public healthcare system that provides universal coverage. This job security makes nursing an exceptionally reliable career path.
Scenic landscape – Finland offers vibrant cities alongside vast forests, pristine lakes, and picturesque islands. Its natural beauty is unparalleled.
Strong economy – As a developed nation, Finland has a very low unemployment rate and high wages. This economic stability cushions any transition.
Multicultural society – While predominantly Finnish, large communities exist from other European and Asian countries. Relocating won’t mean a loss of cultural variety.
Support for immigrants- Finland wants to attract skilled professionals. Immigration authorities provide guidance and assistance through the process.
If you value a work-life equilibrium, job security in healthcare, natural scenery, or exposure to a new culture – nursing in Finland may be the ideal solution!
Requirements for Nursing Licensure in Finland
As with any country, there are certain criteria you must meet to secure authorization to work as a nurse in Finland. Let’s break down the essential qualifications:
Education- You need a bachelor’s degree or equivalent 3-4 year nursing qualification from a recognized university. Common options are a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Language skills – Demonstrate intermediate or higher proficiency in both written and spoken Finnish or Swedish. English is sufficient for the application process, but you’ll need a Scandinavian language for direct patient care duties.
Authorization in your home countr – You must hold a current, valid nursing license from your country of original qualification which allows you to practice independently.
Work experience – At least one year of full-time clinical nursing experience obtained within the last five years is preferred but not always mandatory depending on your educational background.
Good standing – You cannot have any restrictions placed on your authorization to work as a nurse by any regulatory body due to misconduct or negligence.
With the right credentials, you’ll be ready to progress to the next stages of assessment, orientation, and eventually registration with the national licensing board in Finland. Let’s explore the application steps.
Applying for Authorization to Work as a Nurse in Finland
Ready to get started? Here is a breakdown of the application process:
1. Choose your route – You can apply directly as an independently practicing nurse or through an accredited recruitment agency focused on healthcare staffing.
2. Complete pre-screening- Most agencies provide an online eligibility quiz to confirm you meet the basic criteria before committing further.
3. Submit your application – Through the agency portal or directly to the Finnish national licensing authority Valvira. You’ll need to submit documents like official transcripts, license verification, CV/resume and more.
4. Undergo credentials assessment – Valvira will thoroughly evaluate your education, license, language skills and experience against their standards. This can take 4-6 months.
5. Attend online orientation – If approved, join a free virtual session explaining the culture, health system, and expectations as a nurse in Finland.
6. Schedule language exams- Once orientation is complete, register for accredited exams (like the YKI) proving your Finnish/Swedish is sufficient for the role.
7. Receive registration – Upon passing language tests, Valvira will formally register you on their Nursing Register allowing you to practice in Finland.
8. Accept a job offer – With registration complete, you can now look for and accept nursing opportunities at facilities across the country.
The total process usually takes 8-12 months if applying independently. Through a respected agency, things can take 6-9 months on average as they streamline certain steps. Let’s move on to explore the costs involved.
Budgeting for Your Move to Finland as a Nurse
Of course, relocating abroad requires some financial preparation. Here’s an overview of typical fees and expenses to factor into your budget:
Application: Ranges from free (if applying direct) up to €1,500 with an agency handling credentials evaluation and other services.
-Language exams: Approx. €150-250 for each of the required Finnish/Swedish proficiency tests.
Moving expenses: Flights, shipping/storage for belongings, deposits on housing, etc. Plan $5,000-$10,000 depending on your needs.
– **Initial costs*
: First month’s rent (often 1-2 months upfront), buying necessary household items like towels/sheets/pots. Another $3,000-$5,000.
Salary: Starting wages are generally 3,000-4,000€ per month before taxes as a registered nurse. Rates go up with experience and specialty.
Daily living: Food, entertainment, transportation, etc. Estimate $1,500-2,000 monthly for a single person or couple without children. Healthcare expenses are minimal due to public coverage.
Cash buffer: Keep 3-6 months of living expenses readily available in savings as a safety net for unexpected costs during your transition period.
Proper financial planning is essential for stress-free relocation. Aim to save up $20,000-$30,000 total to comfortably manage the whole process from beginning to financial independence in your new role.
Finding Nursing Jobs in Finland
Once fully registered, you’ll be ready to get started in your new career. Finland has a spectrum of options across both the public and private healthcare sectors. Let’s look at some top places to find nursing work:
Hospital jobs – The 20 hospital districts run facilities nationwide, from major academic medical centers to regional hospitals. Monitor open positions.
Municipal healthcare- Finland’s municipalities jointly deliver community-based services like healthcare centers, elderly care facilities, clinics, etc.
Private companies – For-profit elderly care homes, rehab centers, medical staffing firms, and businesses contracted by municipalities.
Specialized roles- Operating/recovery room nursing, midwifery, mental health, public health, management, research, and more.
Remote/rural options- Bonuses are offered to attract nurses willing to work in more isolated areas further north.
International agencies- Those used to apply may have current job listings posted from partner facilities in Finland seeking to hire.
Networking is invaluable as well. Consider joining online Finnish nursing communities and discussion boards to learn about opportunities not broadly advertised. The job market remains strong for registered candidates.
Where to Live as a Nurse in Finland
Finland has a population of around 5.5 million spread throughout diverse city and country landscapes. Your top location choices as a new nurse will likely be:
-Helsinki – The bustling capital is Finland’s largest metropolitan hub with the most jobs, amenities, recreational activities, and multicultural flair. Housing shortages exist.
Tampere – Finland’s second largest inland city offers all the benefits of an urban center alongside proximity to picturesque lakes and forests. A growing health sector.
Turku- A historic port city along Finland’s southwest coast. Home to one of the nation’s five university hospitals and close proximity to nature.
Oulu- Finland’s fifth largest city located further north near the Arctic Circle. Known for its technology industry and growing medical sector. Colder winters.
Kuopio – Situated on beautiful lakes, Kuopio has a major hospital and many health services centrally located yet still feels reasonably sized.
Rent ranges from €650-1,500 per month depending on location, size, and amenities. Research any relocation support you may qualify for through your new employer to ease housing and cost of living adjustments.
Adapting to Life in Finland as an International Nurse
Moving to an entirely new country and culture is a big change, even with the benefits of nursing in Finland. Here are some tips for a smoother adjustment period:
– **Learn the language** – Continue practicing Finnish or Swedish, even just basic phrases, to facilitate everyday tasks and better integrate.
– **Utilize orientation resources** – Your employer should provide cultural and system training. Network with other international staff as well for peer advice.
– **Embrace the differences** – Finland has unique holidays, foods, social norms, climate, etc. Remain open-minded rather than resistant to adapting some Finnish ways.
– **Join activity groups** – Team sports, hiking clubs, international meetups, etc. are great ways to build your social support network outside of work.
– **Seek mental health support** – It’s normal to experience homesickness or culture shock. Counseling services are affordable and help manage stress during transition periods.
– **Plan visits home** – Staying connected to loved ones back in your native country will aid the long distance aspects of international relocation.
Finland offers so much for personal and professional growth. With patience and community involvement, you’ll feel right at home in no time at all as a nurse abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing in Finland
Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions:
– Can I work part-time? – Yes, Finland supports flexible scheduling. Many nurses opt to work 75-80% contracts that still provide full benefits.
– What specialties are in demand? – Mental health nursing, operating room experience, geriatrics and long-term care and midwifery tend to face shortages.
– How do I advance my career? – Finishing a master’s degree part-time while working can unlock management opportunities. Specializing is another route like wound/ostomy care.
– What about my family? – Spouses and children of skilled workers generally receive residency permits as well. Finland offers excellent schools, universal healthcare and a safe, family-friendly environment.
– How long until I’m fluent? – With full immersion, expect basic communication within 6-12 months and intermediate skills within 2 years using Finnish/Swedish regularly both at work and in daily activities. Complete fluency may take 5+ years.
– Can I travel from Finland? – Absolutely. As a EU country, Finland has easy access to travel throughout Europe. Destinations like Germany, Spain, Italy and beyond are only a quick and affordable flight away on your time off from nursing duties.
Hopefully this guide has shed light on all you need to know to kickstart a rewarding nursing journey in beautiful Finland. Their healthcare system needs dedicated professionals – could that career be waiting for you? Now is the perfect time to start planning your move.
