Finding the cost estimate to relocate to Finland to work under a visa sponsorship program is more tasky to everyone seeking to relocate for greener pastures in Finland. Although relocating to Finland with a visa sponsorship job can be a great opportunity, it comes with costs you must plan for. Finland is a top destination for foreign workers seeking visa sponsorship jobs. With its strong economy, high salaries, and excellent work-life balance, Finland actively recruits skilled and unskilled workers to fill labour shortages.
Before we dive into breaking down the cost of migrating to Finland in its simpler form, let’s understand what it takes to work in Finland as a foreigner.
Types of Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Finland
- Skilled Worker Jobs – Requires IT, engineering, healthcare, and education expertise.
- Seasonal Work Visa – Allows work in agriculture, forestry, and tourism for up to 9 months.
- Work-Based Residence Permit – For labour shortage occupations.
- Startup & Entrepreneur Visa – Requires a viable business plan and financial backing.
- Special Expert Visa – Fast-track visa for highly skilled professionals.
Eligibility Requirements
- Valid Job Offer – Contract from a Finnish employer.
- Relevant Skills & Qualifications – Degree, diploma, or certification in your field.
- Work Experience – 2–5 years preferred.
- Salary Requirements – Must meet Finland’s minimum wage standards.
- Health Insurance – Required before arrival.
- Clean Criminal Record – Police clearance certificate is mandatory.
Application Process
1. Find a Job with Visa Sponsorship
Search for jobs on:
- TE-palvelut (te-palvelut.fi)
- Work in Finland (workinfinland.fi)
- EURES (ec.europa.eu/eures)
- Duunitori (duunitori.fi)
2. Secure a Job Offer
Ensure the employer is willing to sponsor your visa.
3. Gather Required Documents
– Valid passport
– Job contract from a Finnish employer
– Educational certificates
– Proof of work experience
– Salary details and employment terms
– Police clearance certificate
– Health insurance proof
4. Apply for a Work-Based Residence Permit
Submit your application via Enter Finland (enterfinland.fi).
Processing fee: €490 – €750.
5. Attend Biometrics Appointment
Book an appointment at the nearest Finnish embassy or consulate.
6. Wait for Processing
Processing time: 1-4 months.
7. Travel to Finland & Start Working
Once approved, you will receive a work permit and can legally work in Finland.
Top In-Demand Jobs in Finland
- IT & Software Development – Software Engineers, Cybersecurity Experts, AI Specialists
- Engineering & Construction – Civil Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Mechanics
- Healthcare & Nursing – Doctors, Nurses, Physiotherapists, Dentists
- Manufacturing & Skilled Trades – Welders, Machine Operators, Carpenters
- Agriculture & Seasonal Jobs – Farm Workers, Greenhouse Labourers, Food Processing Staff
- Business & Finance – Accountants, Auditors, HR Managers
Salary Expectations
- Software Engineer: €50,000 – €80,000
- Registered Nurse: €35,000 – €55,000
- Mechanical Engineer: €45,000 – €70,000
- Construction Worker: €30,000 – €45,000
- Farm Worker: €25,000 – €35,000
Pathway to Permanent Residency & Citizenship
- Permanent Residency – Apply after 4 years of legal employment.
- Finnish Citizenship – Apply after 5 years of continuous residence.
Cost of Relocating to Finland with a Visa Sponsorship
Below is a detailed cost breakdown for a foreign worker moving to Finland, assuming they have a visa-sponsored job offer (meaning the employer covers or assists with some visa-related expenses, but not all relocation costs).
1. Visa and Residence Permit Costs
Even with sponsorship, you may still bear some of these costs:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (EUR) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Residence Permit Application | €350 – €470 | Electronic (€350) vs. paper (€470); paid by applicant unless employer covers it. |
| Police Registration Fee (if any) | €0 – €50 | Required in some cases, especially for long-term residents. |
| Document Translation/Legalization | €50 – €200 | Depends on documents and number of pages. |
2. Travel and Flight Expenses
| Expense | Estimated Cost (EUR) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| One-way Flight Ticket | €300 – €800 | Depends on country of origin and season. |
| Extra Luggage Fees | €50 – €150 | If carrying more than standard allowance. |
3. Accommodation (Initial and Long-Term)
| Expense | Estimated Cost (EUR) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary Accommodation (1-2 weeks) | €300 – €800 | Airbnb, hostel, or hotel. |
| Security Deposit (1–3 months’ rent) | €800 – €3,000 | Required upfront for renting long-term. |
| Monthly Rent (1-bedroom apt.) | €700 – €1,200 | Varies by city (Helsinki is more expensive). |
4. Basic Setup & Living Costs (First Month)
| Expense | Estimated Cost (EUR) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Groceries | €250 – €400 | Monthly cost. |
| Public Transport Pass | €60 – €80 | Depends on city (HSL in Helsinki, for example). |
| SIM Card & Mobile Plan | €10 – €30 | Prepaid or contract. |
| Household Items | €100 – €300 | Bedding, utensils, etc. |
5. Healthcare and Insurance
| Expense | Estimated Cost (EUR) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Health Insurance (pre-KELA) | €300 – €600 (annual) | Required until you’re covered by Finnish national health (KELA). |
| KELA Enrollment (if applicable) | Mostly free | After residence is granted, takes a few months. |
6. Miscellaneous Costs
| Expense | Estimated Cost (EUR) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing (winter gear) | €150 – €400 | Essential if coming from warmer climates. |
| Banking Setup | Mostly free | Some banks require an initial deposit. |
| Work Equipment | Usually employer-provided | Confirm with your employer. |
7. Total Estimated Costs (Out-of-Pocket)
| Category | Low Estimate (EUR) | High Estimate (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Visa & Documents | €350 | €700 |
| Flights & Travel | €350 | €950 |
| Initial Accommodation | €300 | €800 |
| Security Deposit + Rent | €1,500 | €3,500 |
| Basic Living Expenses (1 mo.) | €500 | €900 |
| Insurance & Health | €300 | €600 |
| Miscellaneous | €150 | €400 |
| Total | €3,450 | €7,850 |
Additional Notes
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Taxation: Once employed, Finland has a progressive tax system. Be sure to apply for a tax card (verokortti).
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Salary Consideration: Average gross salary for many skilled jobs ranges between €2,500 – €4,500/month.
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Language: While many jobs are in English, learning Finnish or Swedish can help with integration and daily life.