Moving to Finland from the USA: Everything you need to know

Moving to Finland from the United States can be a big change, but also an exciting one. With world-class education, strong public services, and a high quality of life, it’s no surprise that more Americans are making the move.

But before you book a one-way ticket, it’s helpful to know what to expect. From visa options to healthcare, this guide walks you through the essentials of relocating to Finland as an American.

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Table of contents
Quick facts about Finland Visa options for Americans in Finland Cost of living in Finland Opening a bank account in Finland Getting accommodation in Finland Healthcare system in Finland Best cities to live in Finland as an expat Is it safe to live in Finland?

Quick facts about Finland

Finland offers a high quality of life and some of the happiest residents in the world.

If you’re thinking about moving to Finland from the USA, here are a few essentials to know upfront:

Capital	Helsinki
Population	5.6 million¹
Currency	Euro (EUR)
Languages	Finnish and Swedish (English is widely spoken)
Time zone	Eastern European Time (EET/EEST)
Government	Stable parliamentary democracy
Healthcare	Universal public system with private options available²
US tax treaty	Yes, there’s a treaty to avoid double taxation³

With the Arctic wilderness of Lapland and the vibrant design scene in Helsinki, the country of Finland is both peaceful and innovative. It’s also one of the safest in the world.

Visa options for Americans in Finland

Americans can enter Finland without a visa for short stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.⁴ But if you’re planning to live, work, or study in Finland long-term, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit based on your reason for moving.

Here are the most common options.

Work-based residence permit

If you have a job offer in Finland, you can apply for a residence permit based on employment. The type of permit you’ll need depends on your role and salary level.

For most jobs, your gross monthly salary must be at least €1,600. If you’re applying for a specialist permit or EU Blue Card, the minimum income is €3,827 per month.⁵ These permits are aimed at highly skilled professionals and tend to be processed faster.

Your employer will need to provide a contract, and the position must typically meet labor market requirements by Finnish authorities.

Residence permit for entrepreneurs

If you’re planning to run your own business in Finland, you can apply for a residence permit as an entrepreneur. This applies to people who are self-employed, run a limited company, or work in a general partnership.

To be eligible, you must have a registered business in Finland and actively work in it. You’ll need a Finnish Business ID and enough financial resources to support yourself.

Your application will first be reviewed by an ELY Centre to assess whether your business is considered profitable.

If you’re building a scalable startup, Finland also offers a start-up entrepreneur permit. Before applying, you’ll need a positive Eligibility Statement from Business Finland confirming that your idea and business model meet the program’s growth criteria.

Student residence permit

If you’re planning to study full-time in Finland, you’ll need a student residence permit.

You must have an official acceptance from a Finnish university or other accredited educational institution. To qualify, you need to show that you have at least €800 per month in available funds and valid health insurance for the duration of your stay.⁶

While you’re in Finland, you’re allowed to work up to 30 hours per week during the academic term. However, this cannot replace the required financial proof during your application.

Residence permit for family members

If you’re an American moving to Finland to live with a close relative, you can apply for a residence permit based on family ties. You must intend to lead a family life together in Finland.

Under Finnish law, “family” includes spouses, same-sex partners, cohabiting partners who’ve lived together for at least two years or share a child, children under 18, and legal guardians. Your sponsor must also meet the income requirements.⁷

Digital nomad visa (not currently available)

Finland does not currently offer a dedicated digital nomad visa. Remote workers from outside the EU, including Americans, are not allowed to live in Finland and work remotely on a tourist visa. This is considered illegal under Finnish immigration rules.⁸

If you’re a freelancer or running your own business, the entrepreneur residence permit may be a better fit.

Keep an eye on the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) in case a formal digital nomad visa is introduced in the future.

Permanent residence and citizenship

If you’ve lived in Finland continuously for four years on a valid residence permit, you can apply for permanent residence. You must hold a continuous permit (Type A), meet the income requirement, and have no significant gaps in your stay.⁹

Citizenship is typically available after five years of continuous residence, as long as you can show language skills and meet other integration criteria. Without language proficiency, the required time is eight years.¹⁰

Cost of living in Finland

The cost of living in Finland is relatively high by global standards, but still more affordable than life in many major US cities. While expenses can vary depending on where you settle, most expats find the high quality of life and reliable public services well worth the price.

Here’s what a few routine expenses look like:

Expense	Approximate Cost (USD)¹¹
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant	17 USD
Three-course meal for two (mid-range)	93 USD
Apartment (1 bed) in the city center	923 USD
Apartment (3 bed) in the city center	1,555 USD
Utilities (monthly)	124–309 USD

For a single person, expect total costs (excluding rent) to fall in the range of €951.40 per month on average.¹² Rent is typically the largest expense. Helsinki is pricier, but cities like Tampere or Turku offer more affordable alternatives.

You’ll find entertainment, gyms, and nights out reasonably priced. Alcohol and imported goods, however, often come with high taxes.

Car ownership is costly due to fuel and insurance, but most people rely on efficient public transportation. A monthly pass offers good value if you commute often.

Families relocating with kids should budget for education. Public schools are free, but international schools can cost €12,000–16,000 annually per child.¹³

Opening a bank account in Finland

Opening a bank account in Finland is straightforward once you have the right documents. Most banks will ask for:

• A valid passport or national ID
• Finnish personal identity code (henkilötunnus)
• Proof of address in Finland
• Residence permit (if applicable)

If you don’t yet have a Finnish personal identity code, some banks may still open a bank account, but features like online banking could be limited until you provide it.

You can choose from major Finnish banks like Nordea, OP, and Danske Bank, or alternatives such as the Wise account.

Tax implications for Americans in Finland

If you’re a US citizen living in Finland, you may have tax obligations in both countries. Finland taxes residents on worldwide income, so you’ll need to declare all earnings, whether they come from Finland or abroad. The US also taxes its citizens on worldwide income, even if they live overseas.

The US and Finland have a tax treaty to help avoid double taxation, but you’ll still need to file annual returns with the IRS. You may also need to report foreign bank accounts under the FBAR rules if your total foreign balances exceed $10,000 at any point in the year.¹⁴

It’s wise to consult both Finnish and US tax advisors to ensure compliance in both countries. You can read more on the IRS US–Finland Tax Treaty Page.

Getting accommodation in Finland

Housing is one of the biggest expenses in Finland, and prices vary greatly depending on the city or region. Helsinki is the most expensive, while smaller towns and rural areas can be far more affordable.

Before committing, it’s a good idea to explore different areas and get a feel for the local housing market.

Renting

Many newcomers start with a short-term rental before finding a permanent home. This gives you time to decide which neighborhood suits your lifestyle and budget.

Some popular sites for finding rentals in Finland include:

• Oikotie
• Vuokraovi
• Forenom (furnished short- and long-term rentals)
• Facebook housing groups for specific cities

Here is a snapshot of average monthly rent in central locations:

City	1 bedroom	3 bedroom
Helsinki¹⁵	€1,046	€1,932
Tampere¹⁶	€826.	€1,424
Turku¹⁷	€724	€1,125

Outside city centers, prices drop, and you could save hundreds per month by choosing a suburban or rural location.

When renting, be prepared to provide proof of income, identification, and sometimes a Finnish personal identity code. Always get a written contract, which should clearly outline rent and maintenance fee arrangements.

Buying property in Finland

Foreigners, including Americans, can buy property in Finland without restrictions. The process is straightforward, but you will need to budget for extra costs such as:

• Transfer tax (3% of the purchase price for most properties)¹⁸
• Notary and legal fees
• Mortgage arrangement fees, if applicable

Property prices are highest in Helsinki, Espoo, and Tampere, while smaller towns offer better value for money.

If you’re unfamiliar with Finnish property law, it's recommended that you hire a local real estate agent and legal advisor. They can help verify ownership and guide you through the purchase process.

Here are some practical tips:

• Start your housing search early, as the rental market can be competitive in larger cities
• If you plan to pay rent or utilities from a foreign account, check transaction fees or consider opening a Finnish bank account
• Utilities are not always included in rent, so clarify this before signing a lease
• In winter, heating can be a significant cost, so ask landlords for recent utility bills to estimate monthly expenses

Healthcare system in Finland

Finland’s healthcare system is known for its high quality and accessibility. It operates on a universal public healthcare model funded primarily through taxes. This means residents have access to essential medical services at low cost or free of charge.

Public healthcare is provided by municipalities through local health centers and hospitals. Americans moving to Finland with a residence permit can register for the public system once they have a personal identity code and municipality of residence.

There’s also a private healthcare sector, which can offer shorter wait times and a wider choice of providers. Many residents use a mix of both public and private care.

Employers may also offer occupational healthcare, which can cover routine check-ups, screenings, and some specialist visits.

Here’s a quick overview of healthcare costs in Finland:¹⁹

Service	Approximate cost
Primary doctor consultation	€60
Midwife appointment	€153
MRI scan	€634
Specialist appointment	€109–192

If you plan to stay long-term, it’s important to register with the Kela system (the Finnish Social Insurance Institution), which manages access to public healthcare benefits. Without registration, you may have to rely solely on private care and insurance.

Best cities to live in Finland as an expat

Finland offers a range of living environments, from cosmopolitan capitals to smaller cities with a close-knit feel. Your choice will depend on your lifestyle and job opportunities.

Below are some of the most popular options among expats, each offering its own mix of cultural activities and quality of life.

Helsinki

Finland’s capital is the hub for business and international connections. Expats here enjoy efficient public transport and plenty of English-speaking services. The job market is strongest in tech, design, and finance, though the cost of living is higher than elsewhere in the country. The city’s mix of coastal charm and urban amenities makes it a top choice for professionals and families.

Tampere

Often called Finland’s “Manchester” for its industrial history, Tampere has reinvented itself as a center for tech and education. It offers a more affordable lifestyle than Helsinki, plus excellent universities, job opportunities, and nature on your doorstep. Many expats appreciate its balance of urban life with easy access to lakes, forests, and ski trails.

Turku

As Finland’s oldest city and former capital, Turku blends historic charm with a vibrant student population. Its pace is slower than Helsinki's but the city still offers good job prospects in education, healthcare, and maritime industries. Turku’s location on the southwest coast also means mild winters by Finnish standards and easy ferry access to Sweden and the Åland Islands.

Is it safe to live in Finland?

Finland consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world. Low crime rates, a well-functioning police force, and strong social trust make it a comfortable place for expats to settle.

Most crimes are non-violent and often involve petty theft, particularly in tourist areas or during large public events.

The country’s infrastructure is reliable, and emergency services are efficient. Natural disasters are rare, though winters can bring heavy snow and icy conditions, so being prepared for cold weather is important.

As with anywhere, basic precautions apply: secure your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings in crowded places. Overall, Finland’s safety record is one of the reasons many expats choose to move here.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know the essentials of living in Finland, it’s worth remembering that this is a country that prioritizes quality of life. You might trade sunny winters for snow and ice, but you’ll gain safe cities, excellent public services, and a deep connection to nature.

Although the cost of living is higher than in many parts of Europe, it comes with reliable infrastructure and a working healthcare system.

If you can adjust to the seasons, you’ll find daily life here can be just as rewarding as its most memorable adventures.

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Sources

1. Worldometers - Finland Population
2. Work in Finland - What is healthcare like in Finland?
3. Tax summaries - Tax Treaties
4. Insurte - Do US citizens need a visa for Finland?
5. Migri - Residence permit grounds 1, 2, and 3
6. Migri - Income requirements for students
7. Migri - Who are considered family members?
8. Etias - Is There a Digital Nomad Visa in Finland?
9. Migri - When can I apply for a permanent residence permit?
10. Smithstonewalters - Longer period of residence required for citizenship
11. Wise - Average Living Cost In Finland
12. Numbeo - Summary of cost of living in Finland
13. State.gov - Finances
14. Wikipedia - FBAR
15. Numbeo - Rent per month (Helsinki)
16. Numbeo - Rent per month (Tampere)
17. Numbeo - Rent per month (Turku)
18. Vero - Amount of transfer tax on real estate
19. International insurance - Private health care fees in Finland

Sources checked 09/12/2025