Finland is grappling with worker shortages across various sectors, according to a recent report by the European Labour Authority. The EURES projection suggests a decline in Finland’s working-age population in the coming years, potentially opening doors for foreign workers seeking Finnish work visas.
The healthcare sector is hit particularly hard by the worker shortage, but the EURES report identifies numerous other affected industries. These include occupations in home care, childcare, dentistry, social work, engineering, IT, construction, metal processing, food service, and transportation.
Despite the shortage, Finland remains a lucrative employment destination. With a minimum wage of around €1,800 per month and an average gross salary of €4,250, the country boasts some of the highest salaries in Europe. Salaries can vary depending on factors like location, experience, and education. Helsinki, the capital region, generally offers the highest wages.
Doctors, surgeons, executives, IT specialists, finance professionals, lawyers, pilots, engineers, and educators are among the highest-paid professions in Finland.
For those seeking employment opportunities, obtaining a work visa is necessary for most non-European Union/European Free Trade Association (EU/EFTA) citizens. However, exceptions exist for citizens of the Nordic countries, the United States, New Zealand, Australia, San Marino, the Vatican, Andorra, and Japan. These individuals don’t require a work visa to work in Finland.