Moving to Finland is a thrilling adventure with its breathtaking nature, world-class education, and unique culture. But becoming a “Future Finn” comes with its fair share of challenges. Expats moving to Finland often find themselves struggling with the language, culture, and climate — among other things — which can feel overwhelming at times. However, with a bit of preparation and insight, these challenges can become rewarding parts of the journey. This article walks you through the ten most common hurdles expats face in Finland and how to overcome them, helping you confidently transition to your new Finnish life.
1. Language Barrier
Finnish has a reputation for being one of the world’s most difficult languages, with its unique vocabulary and complex grammar. Moreover, it’s not widely spoken outside Finland, meaning resources and practice opportunities are limited. Although many Finns speak fluent English, especially in urban areas, learning basic Finnish is helpful for daily interactions, from grocery shopping to reading public transport signs.
How to Overcome It:
Begin with common phrases and greetings to ease your daily life. Apps like Duolingo and online courses can build foundational skills. Consider joining a Finnish language course once you arrive — many municipalities offer free or affordable options. Practice with locals; even small efforts in Finnish are often warmly appreciated. Over time, you’ll pick up enough Finnish to get by comfortably, and who knows, you might surprise yourself with fluency one day!
2. Navigating the Bureaucracy and Paperwork
Finland has stringent residency requirements and a fairly bureaucratic process for securing things like residence permits, health insurance, and tax registration. For many expats, navigating this system can be daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Finnish legal terminology.
How to Overcome It:
Do your research on the required paperwork before arrival. For residency permits, check the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) website and ensure you have all required documents. Make appointments in advance for in-person visits, as government offices can be busy. Reach out to expat communities or forums, as many people share experiences and helpful tips. The process may be slow, but staying organized and proactive will smooth your path.
3. Finding Accommodation
Housing in Finnish cities, particularly Helsinki, can be pricey and competitive. With high demand for rental properties and limited availability, especially for affordable options, finding suitable housing can be tough. Language can also be a barrier, as many rental listings are in Finnish.
How to Overcome It:
Start your search early, especially if moving to a city like Helsinki. Websites such as Vuokraovi.com and Oikotie.fi offer listings, and some have English versions. Joining local Facebook groups or expat housing networks can help you find temporary or shared housing while you settle in. Additionally, consider working with a real estate agent if the language barrier feels too challenging, as they can assist in translating and negotiating rental agreements.
More about this topic you can find in this article: How to find accommodation in Finland
4. Understanding Finnish Culture and Social Norms
Finnish culture can feel reserved and private, with strong values placed on personal space and independence. This might come across as cold to newcomers, especially those from cultures that emphasize sociability. Finns may also communicate more directly, which can be jarring if you’re used to softer communication styles.
How to Overcome It:
Approach Finnish culture with an open mind. Understand that this reserved nature doesn’t mean people are unfriendly; in fact, many Finns are warm and loyal friends once trust is built. Embrace directness in communication, as it’s often more efficient and appreciated. Respect personal space, but don’t be afraid to initiate small talk — Finns enjoy meaningful conversations, especially when trust has been established.
More about finnish culture you can find in this article: Essential finnish traditions and customs.
5. Adapting to the Weather and Darkness
Finland’s winters are long, dark, and cold, with only a few hours of daylight in the northern regions. This lack of sunlight, especially in winter, can be difficult for those used to warmer climates and more daylight. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is also common among newcomers.
How to Overcome It:
Prepare by investing in warm clothing and outdoor gear, allowing you to embrace winter activities like skiing or snowshoeing. Light therapy lamps can help combat SAD by mimicking natural sunlight indoors. Embrace cozy “hygge” practices, like lighting candles and enjoying warm drinks, to make the winter season more comfortable. Engaging in physical activity, whether outdoors or at the gym, will help lift your spirits.
6. Building a Social Circle
Due to their reserved nature, Finns can be harder to get to know than people from more outgoing cultures. Many expats find it difficult to form connections beyond their workplaces or study environments.
How to Overcome It:
Seek out local clubs or activities where you can meet people with shared interests, such as language exchange groups, sports teams, or hobby classes. Finland has an active volunteering culture, which is a great way to meet like-minded individuals. Embrace the idea of quality over quantity — Finnish friendships may take time to form, but they tend to be deep and long-lasting once established.
7. High Cost of Living
Finland, and particularly Helsinki, has a high cost of living. Housing, food, and transportation expenses are often higher than in other countries. Adjusting to these prices can be challenging, especially if you’re used to a more affordable location.
How to Overcome It:
Research the average costs in your city and budget accordingly. Shopping at budget-friendly grocery stores like Lidl or utilizing secondhand stores for furniture and clothing can help you save money. Take advantage of free or low-cost public events, such as library activities, concerts, and museum days. Planning your expenses carefully will help you adapt to the higher cost of living.
More about cost of living you can find here: Cost of living in Finland.
8. Finding Employment
Finland’s job market can be competitive, especially if you’re not fluent in Finnish. Many positions require language proficiency, which limits options for non-Finnish speakers.
How to Overcome It:
Focus on sectors that have a demand for English-speaking workers, such as IT, engineering, and academia. Tailor your resume to the Finnish format, highlighting relevant skills and experience. Networking is essential; reach out to professionals in your field and attend local career fairs. Improving your Finnish language skills will also open up more job opportunities in the long term.
9. Healthcare System Navigation
Finland’s healthcare system is high-quality but can be a bit overwhelming for newcomers to navigate. Depending on your residency status, you may need private insurance to access certain healthcare services.
How to Overcome It:
Familiarize yourself with the basics of the Finnish healthcare system, including the public services available to residents. If you need private insurance, research providers early on and choose a plan that covers your specific needs. Consider visiting a doctor to establish a health baseline once you arrive; it’ll be easier to navigate the system when you have a local healthcare provider.
10. Adjusting to Finnish Work Culture and Work-Life Balance
Finns value a healthy work-life balance, with work hours generally ending by 5 p.m., and overtime is minimal. For some expats, especially those from fast-paced environments, the Finnish approach can feel slower and more laid-back.
How to Overcome It:
Appreciate the benefits of the Finnish work-life balance, such as less stress and more time for personal pursuits. Learn to manage your tasks within regular hours, and embrace the concept of “independent responsibility” that Finnish workplaces encourage. Being punctual and reliable will also help you succeed in the Finnish work culture, where time management is highly valued.
Adjusting to life in Finland can be challenging, but with these strategies, each hurdle becomes an opportunity for growth and adaptation. From mastering Finnish basics to navigating the healthcare system, your journey will be more manageable — and rewarding — with a little preparation. Embrace the learning process, and soon, you’ll be thriving in Finland’s beautiful, unique culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to learn Finnish?
It varies, but mastering conversational Finnish can take a few months to a year with consistent practice. However, fluency in professional or complex Finnish may take a few years.
2. What’s the average cost of living in Helsinki?
The average monthly cost for a single person in Helsinki is around €1,000-€1,500 without rent. This varies depending on lifestyle and location.
3. Can I work in Finland if I don’t speak Finnish?
Yes, especially in fields like IT, academia, and international business, where English is widely used. However, learning Finnish can greatly expand your job opportunities.
Thank you for reading my article! I hope you found the information helpful for your journey to Finland. Whether you’re moving, studying, or exploring, we´re all Future Finns and we all want to fulfill our Finnish dream.
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