In this article, you’ll read the 3rd issue of our newsletter in which we will review highlight news of Finland and talk more about living in this beautiful country.
Hello, and welcome to this edition of FinlandQ newsletter. As always, our primary goal is to enhance our readers’ knowledge, and this newsletter is created and published with that aim in mind. At this newsletter, we assist applicants and individuals interested in immigrating to and studying in Finland to achieve their goals and dreams as effectively as possible. This newsletter also serves as an opportunity to introduce you to Finland, its culture, and the conditions for living and studying there. We appreciate your time in reading this newsletter and are pleased to have dedicated followers like you.
If you have any comments, criticisms, suggestions, or anything you believe we should know, please feel free to contact us.
**Finland Highlights**
*Increasing use of English is not a threat to the Finnish language
According to researchers, restricting the use of English does not threaten the position of the Finnish language. The University of Eastern Finland conducted a study examining the status of English in public affairs, business life, and universities in Finland. Researchers believe that limiting the use of English could significantly harm international collaborations, making interactions between professionals, employees, and students and the local population more challenging. English, surpassing Swedish, the second official language, has become the second most commonly used language in Finland.
*Finland witnesses a decline in labor-based migration*
In 2022, the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) issued over 20,000 work-related visas, but this figure is expected to decrease to around 15,000 visas in the current year. Over 20,000 work visas were granted in 2022, with the majority going to individuals from Russia, India, and the Philippines. Migri’s statistics indicate that this year, 40,468 individuals were granted residence permits for reasons such as work, family, or education. It is anticipated that the total number of individuals migrating to Finland from abroad this year will exceed that of the previous year, but fewer will come with work-based visas.
A significant number of social and healthcare workers from the Philippines have migrated to Finland, and alongside them, individuals from Sri Lanka, India, China, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Vietnam are also migrating for work. For applicants for student visas, the highest number of applications comes from countries such as Bangladesh, China, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Russia, as they seek to travel to Finland for further education.
*Likely decrease in food prices next year*
A new report from the Economic Research Institute indicates that food prices in 2024 are expected to decrease by approximately two percent. While food prices in Finland are about 20 percent higher than a few years ago, a good reduction is anticipated for consumers in the coming year. This prediction does not suggest a return to previous price levels but rather indicates a decline.
The prices of key products such as grains, milk, and meat in the global market are decreasing, although the price of sugar is on the rise. This trend may have a long-term impact on the prices of processed food products. It is predicted that beef production will decrease by one percent this year. Poultry production has also decreased this year, but an increase in capacity is expected in 2024 to meet higher domestic demand and exports.
**Finland Nuggets**
*Nature, the ultimate teacher*
Finns believe that nature is their ultimate and absolute teacher, and it is nature that teaches them the way of life and resilience. They believe that anyone who can endure alone in nature with minimal resources is strong and that life and wandering in nature are ways to strengthen resilience.
If you are interested in learning more about resilience (Sisu), read our special editions, the first and second of which focus on this concept.
*An active and vibrant society in the true sense of the word!*
Did you know that Finland has more than 70,000 voluntary associations with millions of members? These associations are formed around various interests and hobbies. It might be interesting for you to know that this country, with a population of only 5.5 million, has such an active involvement in associations.
*Student labor rights in Finland and why you should consider student work*
Studying in Finland is one of the most important considerations in recent years with its increasing popularity. This unique country with various universities can be an excellent choice for your further education. Many users have specific questions about student labor rights in Finland. In this text, we intend to address all the information related to this topic and answer your questions regarding these essential rights. Stay with us.
**Why should you consider student work?**
The first question that undoubtedly requires an appropriate answer is the necessity of choosing student work. Why should an individual go for student work and choose it? In response to this question, we must refer to the cost of studying in Finland. Contrary to popular belief, your expenses in this country are not only related to university tuition fees.
You have other expenses such as food, clothing, and more. Covering all these costs without having a suitable job can become a challenging matter. In fact, many international students studying in Finland lack the ability to cover even the simplest of their expenses due to not having a suitable job.
Naturally, if you do not want to be among such a group, you must turn to the student labor rights in Finland. These rights can easily cover many of your general expenses, which is an entirely unique aspect. However, keep in mind that even in these conditions, you must prioritize education as your main priority. Therefore, to obtain a suitable job, it is necessary to examine various parameters.
**Important note about working as a student in Finland**
During the learning process, the allowed time for non-academic activities is limited and will be defined based on the educational level. Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree have less time for non-academic activities, allowing only 10 hours per week. Students must pay attention to this when entering into employment contracts with employers. During this period, you must also consider insurance and taxes because they count as part of your work experience during your studies.
Students with Finnish study visas can work 20 hours per week. In fact, according to the law, only activities related to education are allowed. Students pursuing a doctoral degree in Finland can allocate more time to work activities and are allowed to work 30 hours per week.
When entering into a work contract for student activities, relevant agreements must be made with the employer, and insurance and taxes must be considered so that this period is calculated as part of your work experience. Student labor rights in Finland can be considered suitable.
Working in Finland and Your Salary
One of the main issues that students should consider before choosing their student job in Finland is their salary. Generally, the minimum wage for immigrant students in Finland ranges from €10 to €12 per hour. However, this amount depends on the type of job you choose. The monthly income for Finnish students is between €950 and €1450. Additionally, night shifts in Finland, along with holidays, offer better income opportunities for students.
Finding Suitable Jobs for Students in Finland
Finding a job for immigrant students in Finland is one of the most important challenges to be considered. Finland has its unique approach to student work with distinctive planning. Before starting your job search or applying for employment in Finland, you need to prepare your resume.
A well-prepared resume is an excellent opportunity for students to present themselves more effectively to potential employers. In addition, students’ cover letters are the best opportunity to showcase their personality and performance. The best way for immigrant students who need to find a suitable job in Finland is to visit the university’s website and official student employment portals in Finland. Student work salaries in Finland include other considerations, which we will discuss below.
Financial Factors and Expenses in Finland
The main expenses during your stay include tuition fees and living expenses. Since 2017, state universities in this country have imposed tuition fees for bachelor’s and master’s programs. Currently, Iranian students usually pay an annual average of €8,000 to €15,000 for studying in Finland. Free education for doctoral programs is possible, and students can benefit from scholarships. The monthly living expenses for students usually range from €800 to €1000.
List of Popular Student Jobs in Finland
In addition to earning useful income, student jobs in Finland can be an excellent opportunity to gain important experiences in various fields and establish human connections while studying. Student jobs in Finland include working in restaurants, cleaning, newspaper delivery, food delivery, and working as research assistants for university research programs.
Usually, students work in restaurants, hotels, and shopping centers. Finding a job in Finland can sometimes be challenging. Sometimes, job search requires knowledge of Finnish and Swedish languages. According to the European Job Days website, the most popular jobs are as follows:
1. Nursing and health care specialists
2. Specialized medical staff
3. Social work and counseling specialists
4. General practitioner
5. Specialist doctor
6. Children’s coach
7. Audiologist and speech therapist
8. Dentist
9. Psychologist
10. Teacher and specialized subject instructor
11. Home nurse
12. Cleaners and assistants in offices, hotels, and other centers
13. Nursing and specialized care specialists
14. Specialized welding and cutting workers
Taxation for Student Jobs
Student work salaries in Finland are subject to taxation. If you have a student job in Finland, you still have to pay taxes on your income. The amount of tax depends on the type of work and your income. Non-European students usually have more restrictions on activities during their studies compared to European students. In other words, income tax, including work salaries, is applied.
Finland generally does not impose taxes on income received from other countries for students and trainees. The reason for this is related to the provisions of tax agreements between Finland and other countries. However, if you receive income from a Finnish employer, income tax is implemented in Finland.
If you enter Finland for education, you cannot receive financial support from the Finnish government. This support is usually only for individuals entering Finland for non-educational reasons. Financial support for students is subject to tax deduction. This is an important point about student work salaries in Finland.
Final Words
Many scientific studies have been conducted on student work salaries, expenses, and working conditions for students in Finland. Having a work permit for students and part-time jobs is a vital option for international students. Individuals with different levels of education can obtain a work permit, sign contracts with Finnish employers, and work as part-time employees.
If there are no immigration document issues, this country is one of the best destinations for studying abroad. After graduation, you have about one year to find your desired job and obtain permanent residency in this country.
For more information on this topic, contact our team. You can also read more about jobs in Finland by visiting our website blog: https://finlandq.com/study/.
As always, we conclude this FinlandQ newsletter with a Finnish proverb:
“The pot blames the kettle, yet both have a black side.”
In Finnish: Pata kattilaa soimaa, musta kylki kummallakin.
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