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Minimum Rental Periods
The minimum rental agreement period is typically 1 year.
Required Documents for Signing a Lease
Typical documents required to sign a lease are:
• Valid ID (Passport)
• Offer letter
• Finnish Personal Identity Number
Standard Security Deposit
The security deposit is equivalent to 2-3 months’ rent.
Local Norm for Returning the Security Deposit
The security deposit is returned after completion of inventory, inspection of outstanding refurbishments, and cleaning.
Outstanding payments for utilities and repairs will be deducted if necessary.
Rental Commission
Should you choose to utilize the services of a real estate agent to help you in your search. Agencies usually collect rental commission equal to 2 months’ rent + 24% Value-Added Tax (VAT).
Payment of Rental Commission
The agent’s rental commission is typically paid by the landlord.
Accepted Method of Payment
Bank Transfer is the most common and preferred payment method.
School Fees
Finnish public and state funded private schools are free of charge. The International School of Helsinki does have additional fees. It is recommended to contact each international school to inquire about any tuition fees as some are do not have tuition fees.
Residency Requirements
When you move to Finland you may want or need to establish residency. Requirements may include:
EU Citizens
• Registration at the Finnish Immigration Office
• Registration at the Local Register’s Office
• Obtain a tax card
• Obtain Finnish ID Card (not mandatory)
Non-EU Citizens
• Registration at the Finnish Immigration Office
• Registration at the Local Register’s Office
• Obtain a tax card
• Obtain Finnish ID Card (not mandatory)
• Work and Residence Permit
It is advisable to connect with a local expert to identify any additional requirements and advise on support available to assist in meeting the local requirements.
Requirements
Typical documentation required to obtain a driver’s licence include:
• Current driving license issued in an EU or EEA country, or if you do not have the driving licence a driving licence extract from the country that issued your driving licence.
• Passport or other official ID
• Two passport photos
Additional Notes
Non-EU driver’s licence issued by member states of Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, can be used up to two years in Finland. These foreign driver’s licences can be changed to a Finnish one after 6 months of residing in Finland.
Required Documents
In order to open a bank account, you may be asked for:
• Valid passport
• Valid residence permit card
• Local registration certificate
• Employment contract
Time Required
It may take 1-14 working days for your account opening to be complete. This does vary depending on the bank.
Additional Notes
For non-EU-citizens, a Finnish ID card is required for extended user rights of online banking codes.