Moving to Finland: A Smooth Transition to Europe’s Happiest Country
Moving to Finland is an exciting adventure filled with opportunities for a high quality of life, excellent work-life balance, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re moving for work, education, or personal reasons, the transition can feel overwhelming without the right support. From understanding Finnish culture to navigating the logistics of an international move, there’s a lot to consider before you embark on this journey.
At Tippet Richardson, we specialize in international relocations, offering comprehensive moving services tailored to your needs. With nearly a century of experience, we ensure your move to Finland is smooth and stress-free. From packing and shipping to storage solutions and transit insurance, we handle every aspect of your relocation with precision and care. Our expertise ensures that your belongings arrive safely, allowing you to focus on settling into your new home.
Finland consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world, thanks to its outstanding public services, stunning landscapes, and progressive social policies. However, moving to a new country comes with challenges, including customs regulations, cultural adjustments, and language barriers. With Tippet Richardson as your trusted moving partner, you’ll have the support and guidance needed to navigate these complexities with confidence, especially when moving to Finland.
How to Move to Finland: A Complete Guide
Moving to Finland requires careful planning and understanding of key aspects such as immigration procedures, housing, and cultural adaptation. To help you prepare, we’ve outlined the most important factors to consider before your relocation.
Immigration and Residency Requirements
If you’re moving from outside the EU, you’ll need a residence permit based on your reason for moving. The application process varies depending on your situation.
- Work and Business Permits – If relocating for a job, your employer may assist with the permit process. Entrepreneurs and investors must apply for a business permit separately.
- Student Visas – International students must provide proof of admission, sufficient funds, and valid health insurance.
- Family Reunification – If joining a family member in Finland, you’ll need proof of relationship and financial support.
It’s recommended to apply for permits well in advance, as processing times can take several months.
Make Your Move to Finland Effortless with Tippet Richardson
Moving to Finland: Preparing for Your Relocation
Moving to Finland requires thorough preparation before departure and a strategic approach to settling in once you arrive. From handling paperwork to adjusting to a new culture, here’s what you need to know to make your move as seamless as possible.
Before You Move
Proper planning ensures a stress-free relocation. Take these steps to prepare for your move to Finland.
- Sort Out Immigration and Visa Requirements – Apply for the correct residence permit and ensure all documents are in order.
- Arrange International Shipping – Book a professional moving service like Tippet Richardson to handle packing and customs clearance.
- Find Housing in Advance – Research rental or purchase options and secure temporary accommodation if needed.
- Budget for the Cost of Living – Consider housing, transportation, and everyday expenses to manage your finances efficiently.
- Learn Basic Finnish or Swedish – While English is widely spoken, knowing the local language helps with daily interactions.
Moving to Finland FAQs
Moving to Finland comes with many questions. Here are some of the most common ones, along with expert answers to help you prepare.
-
What are the main visa requirements for moving to Finland from Canada?
If you’re moving to Finland for work, you’ll need a residence permit for employment. Students require a study permit, while entrepreneurs and freelancers have separate visa categories. Family members joining a resident must apply for a family reunification permit. The application process is handled by the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri), and processing times vary.
-
How long does it take to ship household goods to Finland from Canada?
Shipping times depend on the mode of transport. Sea freight typically takes 6–8 weeks, while air freight is faster but more expensive. Tippet Richardson ensures efficient shipping and customs clearance to avoid delays.
-
Can I bring my car to Finland?
Yes, but you must meet Finnish import regulations. If you’ve owned the vehicle for at least six months before your move, you may qualify for tax exemptions. The car must also pass Finnish roadworthiness inspections. Tippet Richardson can assist with the necessary documentation and shipping logistics when moving to Finland.
-
What’s the best way to find housing in Finland?
Rental demand is high in major cities like Helsinki, so securing accommodation in advance is recommended. Platforms like Vuokraovi and Oikotie are useful for finding apartments. If you plan to buy property, note that financing options for non-EU residents may differ from local options.
-
What should I know about the cost of living in Finland?
Finland has a high cost of living, particularly in urban areas. Rent, groceries, and transportation can be expensive, but public healthcare and education are well-subsidized. Budgeting effectively before your moving to Finland will help ensure financial stability.
-
How does healthcare work in Finland for newcomers?
Public healthcare is available to residents who have registered with the Finnish Population Information System. Expats should also consider private healthcare options for faster service. If moving to Finland for work, your employer may provide health insurance as part of your contract.
-
Why should I choose Tippet Richardson for my move to Finland?
With nearly a century of experience in international moving, Tippet Richardson provides expert packing, secure shipping, customs guidance, and storage solutions. We make moving to Finland stress-free by handling all the logistics, so you can focus on settling into your new home.