10 Things to Know Before Moving to Finland

Are you considering a move to Finland, the land of a thousand lakes and the midnight sun? Before you pack your bags, there are a few things you should know about this unique Nordic country. From the quirks of the Finnish language to the beauty of the natural landscape, here are ten things every expat should be aware of before to Finland.

1. Embrace the Finnish Language

Finnish is notoriously challenging for non-native speakers to learn, but even a basic grasp of the language can greatly enhance your experience living in Finland. Unlike many European languages, Finnish is not an Indo-European language, which can make it difficult for English speakers to pick up. However, most Finns speak excellent English, especially in the cities, so you won't be entirely lost. Learning a few key phrases can help you integrate more easily into daily life. For instance, "Moi" is a friendly greeting, and "Kiitos" means thank you. Finns appreciate when foreigners make an effort to speak their language, and it can lead to many memorable interactions.

2. Understand the Concept of Sisu

Sisu is a uniquely Finnish concept that embodies resilience, perseverance, and inner strength. It's a deeply ingrained part of the Finnish character and something you'll encounter often. Sisu is about pushing through difficult times with determination and grit, a trait that has historically helped Finns endure harsh winters and challenging circumstances. Embracing sisu can help you navigate the ups and downs of expat life and connect more deeply with Finnish culture.

3. Prepare for Long Winters and Short Summers

Finland is known for its long, dark winters and short, bright summers. In the northern parts of the country, the sun may not rise at all during the winter solstice, a phenomenon known as polar night. Conversely, during the summer solstice, the sun may not set at all, creating the famous "white nights." While the winters can be tough, Finns make the most of it with activities like ice skating, cross-country skiing, and sauna sessions. The summers, though brief, are beautiful and filled with outdoor festivals, hiking, and swimming in the country's many lakes.

4. Sauna Culture is a Way of Life

Sauna is more than just a relaxing pastime in Finland; it's a deeply rooted cultural tradition. There are approximately 3.3 million saunas in Finland, which means there's roughly one sauna for every two people. Finns use saunas for relaxation, socializing, and even business meetings. If you're invited to a sauna, it's considered rude to decline. Be prepared for the heat—saunas can reach temperatures of up to 100°C (212°F)—and don't be surprised if you're expected to take a dip in a cold lake or roll in the snow afterward. It's all part of the Finnish sauna experience.

5. Respect for Personal Space

Finns value their personal space and privacy. They tend to be more reserved and may come across as quiet or even distant at first. This doesn't mean they're unfriendly; it's just a cultural norm. Finns prefer direct and honest communication, so small talk is not as common as in other cultures. Once you get to know them, Finns can be incredibly warm and welcoming. Just be patient and respect their boundaries.

6. Appreciate the Natural Beauty

Finland is a nature lover's paradise. With over 188,000 lakes, vast forests, and stunning national parks, there's no shortage of natural beauty to explore. The Finnish concept of "Everyman's Right" (Jokamiehenoikeus) allows everyone to roam freely in nature, regardless of who owns the land. This means you can hike, camp, and forage for berries and mushrooms almost anywhere. Just be sure to respect the environment and follow the principles of sustainable tourism.

7. Navigate the Finnish Work Culture

Finnish work culture is characterized by efficiency, punctuality, and a strong work-life balance. Meetings start on time, and deadlines are taken seriously. Finns also value a flat hierarchy, meaning that everyone's input is considered important, regardless of their job title. Work-life balance is highly valued, and overtime is generally discouraged. Many companies offer flexible working hours and remote work options to support this balance.

8. Explore the Food Scene

Finnish cuisine may not be as well-known internationally as some other European cuisines, but it's definitely worth exploring. Traditional dishes include reindeer meat, salmon, and various berries like lingonberries and cloudberries. Modern Finnish cuisine often blends traditional ingredients with innovative techniques, creating unique and delicious dishes. Helsinki, in particular, has a vibrant food scene with many high-quality restaurants. Don't forget to try some Finnish pastries, like Korvapuusti (cinnamon rolls) or Runebergintorttu (almond and rum-flavored cakes).

9. Get to Know the Education System

Finland's education system is renowned for its high quality and innovative approach. Education is free at all levels, including university, and the focus is on holistic learning rather than just academic achievement. If you're moving with children, you'll find that the Finnish school system emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and overall well-being. It's also common for children to start school later than in many other countries, with formal education beginning at age 7.

10. Embrace the Silence

Finland is one of the quietest countries in the world, both in terms of noise pollution and the reserved nature of its people. Finns are comfortable with silence and don't feel the need to fill every moment with conversation. This can take some getting used to, but embracing the silence can be incredibly calming. It's part of what makes Finland such a peaceful and relaxing place to live. Whether you're enjoying a quiet moment in nature or a silent sauna session, you'll come to appreciate the tranquility that Finland offers.

Moving to Finland can be an exciting and enriching experience. By understanding these key aspects of Finnish culture and life, you'll be well-prepared to make the most of your time in this unique and beautiful country.

Expats talk about Moving to Finland

"I'm a student with limited possessions so I used voovit for the move- not bad but they did insist on me giving a Finnish landline number which we just don't have. Otherwise, it's basically the postal service. We live on the East side but it doesn't feel too rough so far despite its apparent bad reputation. There are a lot of other immigrants in this area, moslems are very visible. So I imagine there are facilities available here for moslems. I recommend living near a metro line as it's very easy to travel to the city but there are buses and trams in other parts of the city," said one expat living in Helsinki.