You can easily find Healthcare or Nursing Jobs in Finland as long as you are eligible and have the required documents and experience. Finland is often described as a land of lakes, forests, and quiet beauty, but beyond the scenery, it’s also a country that takes pride in looking after its people. At the heart of this care is its healthcare system, one that is modern, well-structured, and respected worldwide. Yet, like many nations with an aging population, Finland is facing a challenge, it needs more healthcare workers to keep up with growing demand.
This has opened the door to countless opportunities for nurses, caregivers, and healthcare assistants. From bustling university hospitals in cities like Helsinki, Turku, and Tampere, to local health centers in smaller towns, professionals are needed in nearly every corner of the country. The demand is especially strong in elderly care, rehabilitation, and specialist nursing fields such as intensive care and mental health.
What makes Finland particularly appealing to healthcare workers is the combination of stability and quality of life. Here, your work is valued, your hours are structured, and your personal time is respected. Employers often go a step further by supporting foreign workers with relocation programs, language training, and integration guidance making the transition smoother.
For anyone dreaming of building a healthcare career in a country that balances professional growth with personal well-being, Finland offers more than just jobs and many companies are offering healthcare jobs with visa sponsorship. It offers a chance to live in one of the world’s happiest nations, while making a real difference in people’s lives.
Latest Healthcare and Nursing Job Opportunities in Finland
Finland is experiencing one of the most noticeable healthcare worker shortages in Europe, and this has opened doors for both local and international professionals. The country’s aging population is the main reason behind the growing demand, more elderly citizens means more hands are needed in hospitals, nursing homes, and community-based care. Right now, opportunities are strongest in:
1. Elderly Care Services:
Nurses, practical nurses, and caregivers are in very high demand in nursing homes and for home-based elderly support. This is one of Finland’s biggest workforce gaps.
2. Hospitals and Specialized Units:
Registered nurses are needed in intensive care, surgery, pediatrics, rehabilitation, and mental health. Larger hospitals in Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku are consistently looking for trained staff.
3. Community Health Centers:
Smaller towns and rural areas face the toughest shortages, which means more openings for healthcare assistants and general nurses willing to work outside the big cities.
4. Rehabilitation and Support Roles:
Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and healthcare assistant roles are also available, especially in long-term care. For foreign workers, these openings are not just temporary fixes. Finland is actively creating pathways for international professionals to join its healthcare system. Employers and training programs often provide Finnish language courses, relocation support, and orientation programs to help new staff adapt.
What makes these jobs particularly attractive is that Finland doesn’t just see healthcare workers as employees rather it sees them as an investment in the country’s future. This is why many municipalities are offering long-term contracts, additional training, and integration support to make sure workers stay and grow within the system.
Top Healthcare and Nursing Organizations Hiring in Finland
If you’re exploring nursing or healthcare work in Finland, here are some of the main employers actively seeking staff across the country:
1. HUS (Helsinki University Hospital): The largest hospital group in Finland, HUS runs multiple specialized clinics and is always on the lookout for nurses in ICU, surgery, oncology, and pediatrics.
2. Tampere University Hospital (TAYS): Based in the Pirkanmaa region, this teaching hospital hires both local and international nurses, especially in specialized and critical care units.
3. Turku University Hospital (TYKS): TYKS is one of Finland’s leading medical research and teaching hospitals, with frequent openings for registered nurses and allied health staff.
4. Oulu University Hospital (OYS): Serving Northern Finland, OYS often faces staff shortages due to its large catchment area, making it a good entry point for healthcare workers.
5. Kuopio University Hospital (KYS): Located in Eastern Finland, KYS is well known for hiring international staff and supporting them through language and integration programs.
6. City of Helsinki Social and Health Services: Helsinki’s municipality manages elderly care, home care, and health centers. They are among the largest recruiters of practical nurses and caregivers.
7. Espoo City Healthcare Services: Another major employer in the Helsinki region, Espoo frequently recruits for nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and child health clinics.
8. Vantaa City Social and Health Services: Known for hiring international caregivers and nurses, Vantaa is one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Finland, with strong demand in elderly care.
9. Attendo Oy: One of the largest private healthcare providers in Finland, Attendo manages care homes, rehabilitation centers, and clinics nationwide.
10. Mehiläinen Group: A leading private healthcare company, Mehiläinen offers jobs in hospitals, elderly care, occupational health, and specialized clinics.
These organizations represent both public hospitals and private providers, meaning there are opportunities whether you prefer large teaching hospitals or smaller, community-focused employers.
See also: Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Finland for foreigners
Qualifications and Licensing Requirements for Nurses in Finland
Before stepping into a nursing role in Finland, it’s important to know that healthcare is tightly regulated. The system ensures that anyone caring for patients has the right training, skills, and legal approval. If you’re a foreign-trained professional, here’s what you’ll need to consider:
1. Educational Background: To work as a registered nurse (RN), you must have completed a recognized nursing degree equivalent to Finland’s Bachelor of Nursing (about 3.5 years of study). For practical nurses (lähihoitaja) or caregivers, vocational-level training is usually required, often two to three years in duration.
2. Valvira Authorization: The National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health (Valvira) is the official body that grants licenses to foreign-trained nurses. Your documents (degree, transcripts, and sometimes proof of work experience) must be submitted for evaluation. Once approved, you receive the authorization needed to practice.
3. Language Requirements: Finnish or Swedish, in some regions is the working language in healthcare settings. Most employers expect at least a B1–B2 level of Finnish, meaning you can hold conversations, understand patients, and document care notes. Some hospitals and care facilities support new recruits with intensive Finnish language training before or after arrival.
4. Bridging Programs: If your degree doesn’t fully match Finnish standards, you may need to take additional studies or supervised practice in Finland. Universities of Applied Sciences and vocational schools often offer “bridging” courses tailored for international nurses.
5. Work Permits and Residency: Non-EU applicants will need a residence permit for employment. Many healthcare employers, especially municipalities and private care homes, are willing to provide sponsorship. EU/EEA applicants don’t need a work permit but must still go through Valvira licensing.
6. Continuous Learning: Finland values ongoing professional development. Nurses are encouraged and sometimes required to attend training to update skills, especially in areas like digital healthcare, elderly care, and specialized treatments.
In short, having the right degree, securing Valvira authorization, and learning Finnish are the three biggest steps to working legally as a nurse in Finland.
Application Procedures
Landing a nursing job in Finland as a foreign-trained professional takes a mix of preparation, paperwork, and patience.
1. Research and Identify Openings: Start by exploring vacancies on Finnish job portals like TE-palvelut (the public employment service), Jobly, or directly on hospital and municipal websites. Private healthcare providers such as Mehiläinen, Attendo, and Pihlajalinna also post frequent openings.
2. Prepare Your Documents: Updated CV preferably in the European CV format, Copies of your nursing degree, transcripts, and professional licenses, Work experience certificates (if available) and Language certificates if you’ve already studied Finnish or Swedish. Always note that employers in Finland appreciate a simple, clear, and honest CV without too much “fluff.”
3. Apply for Jobs: Applications can usually be sent online. Some employers conduct initial interviews in English, but they may ask about your willingness to learn Finnish. Highlight flexibility, teamwork, and genuine interest in Finnish healthcare, these are values Finnish recruiters look for.
4. Licensing with Valvira: Once you secure a job offer, you’ll need to apply for authorization from Valvira (the National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health). This process confirms that your nursing qualifications meet Finnish standards. If additional training is required, Valvira will let you know before granting full authorization.
5. Residence Permit and Visa: Non-EU applicants must apply for a residence permit for employment from the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri). Your employer often helps with the paperwork, and processing times vary but can take a few months.
6. Language and Integration Training: Many employers offer Finnish language training either before departure or after arrival. Some municipalities even cover costs for integration courses, especially if they want you to stay long-term.
7. Relocation and Orientation: Once in Finland, new hires usually go through an orientation program to learn about workplace systems, patient safety protocols, and local healthcare practices. This period also helps you adjust to cultural aspects like work-life balance, teamwork style, and documentation routines.
Salary and Benefits for Nurses in Finland
Working as a nurse in Finland isn’t only about steady employments, it also comes with fair pay and strong employee benefits that reflect the country’s focus on work-life balance and social welfare.
Salary Range
1. Registered Nurses (RNs): On average earn between €2,300 – €3,500 per month, depending on experience, specialization, and workplace.
2. Practical Nurses (lähihoitaja): Typically earn €2,000 – €2,600 per month.
3. Specialist Nurses (ICU, anesthesia, surgical, or mental health): Salaries may go above €3,800 monthly.
Shift work plays a big role in total earnings, Evening shifts, night shifts, weekends, and holidays all bring extra allowances that can significantly boost monthly pay.
Employee Benefits
One of Finland’s strengths is its strong employee welfare system:
1. Paid Leave: Nurses get around 5 weeks of paid vacation per year.
2. Sick Leave: Generous sick leave policies ensure you’re covered if unwell.
3. Parental Leave: Both mothers and fathers have access to extensive paid parental leave.
4. Pension Contributions: Nurses are automatically enrolled in Finland’s pension system.
Work Environment Perks
1. Shorter Working Hours: The average workweek is about 36–38 hours, with flexible shifts.
2. Supportive Teams: Nursing in Finland is highly team-oriented; collaboration between doctors, nurses, and assistants is encouraged.
3. Professional Growth: Hospitals and municipalities often sponsor additional training, language classes, and specialization courses.
Cost of Living Consideration
While salaries in Finland are decent, the cost of living especially in Helsinki can be high. However, nurses in smaller towns often enjoy lower housing costs, making their wages stretch further.
Challenges Nurses Face in Finland
While Finland offers stability, fair pay, and respect for healthcare workers, it’s important to recognize that nursing here also comes with its own set of challenges. For anyone considering the move, being aware of these realities helps with preparation and realistic expectations.
1. Language Barrier: Finnish is not an easy language to learn, and most patients especially the elderly prefer to communicate in Finnish or Swedish. Until you reach a good level, work can feel overwhelming. Some employers offer training, but mastering the language takes time and patience.
2. Workload and Staffing Shortages: Like many European countries, Finland is facing a serious nurse shortage. This often means heavier workloads, especially in elderly care and public hospitals. Nurses sometimes report stress due to limited staff-to-patient ratios, particularly in municipal care facilities.
3. Cost of Living Compared To Salary: Although salaries are fair, cities like Helsinki, Espoo, and Tampere have high housing and living costs. New nurses might find it challenging to save until they settle into the system.
4. Adjustment to Finnish Work Culture: Finnish workplaces are known for being structured, punctual, and rule-driven. While this creates efficiency, it can feel rigid at first especially for professionals from cultures with more flexible approaches.
5. Cold Climate and Seasonal Darkness: Winters in Finland are long, dark, and very cold. Many foreign workers find the lack of sunlight challenging, which can affect mood and motivation. On the flip side, summers bring long days and plenty of light but the contrast takes some getting used to.
6. Recognition of Qualifications: The Valvira licensing process can be lengthy, especially if your qualifications don’t fully align with Finnish standards. Some nurses must complete additional training before being fully licensed.
Despite these challenges, many foreign nurses adapt successfully, especially with employer support, language training, and time. For most, the benefits which is stability, career growth, and quality of life outweigh the difficulties.
Conclusion
Choosing to work in Finland as a nurse or healthcare professional is not just about securing a job, it’s about stepping into a country that truly values balance, respect, and professional growth. While the language, licensing, and cultural adjustments may feel challenging at first, the rewards are long-term stability, supportive work environments, and a lifestyle that allows you to enjoy both your career and personal life.
Finland’s healthcare system is actively looking for passionate nurses and caregivers who are ready to make a difference. Whether in elderly care, specialized hospitals, or community health centers, opportunities are wide open for those willing to embrace the journey.
For many foreign nurses, Finland becomes more than just a workplace rather it becomes a second home, where career and quality of life go hand in hand. If you’re ready to grow, learn, and contribute to a system that invests in its people, Finland may be the perfect place to build your future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is there a demand for nurses in Finland right now?
Yes. Finland is facing one of the largest nursing shortages in Europe, especially in elderly care, hospitals, and rehabilitation services. Demand is expected to grow even more in the coming years.
2. Do I need to speak Finnish to work as a nurse?
In most cases, yes. Patients especially the elderly expect care in Finnish or Swedish. However, some employers may hire you initially if you commit to learning the language through their training programs.
3. How much do nurses earn in Finland?
Registered nurses earn between €2,300 and €3,500 per month, while practical nurses typically earn €2,000 to €2,600. Overtime, night shifts, and weekend allowances can significantly boost salaries.
4. What’s the difference between a registered nurse and a practical nurse in Finland?
Registered Nurses (RN): Hold a bachelor’s degree and work in hospitals, specialized care, and advanced roles.
Practical Nurses (Lähihoitaja): Usually have vocational training and work more in elderly care, home care, and support roles.
5. Is it difficult to get a work permit for Finland?
Not really if you have a confirmed job offer. Many employers provide sponsorship for non-EU nurses, while EU/EEA nurses don’t need permits but still require Valvira licensing.
6. Do employers provide relocation support?
Yes. Many hospitals and municipalities help with relocation expenses, housing search, and integration programs especially for long-term hires.
7. What’s the typical work schedule for nurses?
Most nurses work 36–38 hours per week in rotating shifts. Evening, night, and weekend duties are common, but they come with extra pay.
8. Can I study nursing in Finland as an international student?
Yes. Several Finnish universities of applied sciences offer nursing programs in English, although you’ll still need to learn Finnish during your studies for clinical placements.
9. What challenges should I expect as a foreign nurse in Finland?
The biggest ones are learning Finnish, adjusting to shift work in a high-demand environment, and adapting to Finland’s long winters.
10. Is Finland a good long-term option for nurses?
Absolutely. With steady demand, strong employee rights, and excellent work-life balance, Finland is a solid long-term career destination for nurses and caregivers who are willing to adapt.
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