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LABOUR FINLANDIndependent Information Service
Independent Student Employment & Rights Guide

Studying and working in Finland: rights, limits, and real wages.

Everything you need to know about the 30-hour work limit, obtaining your tax card (verokortti), student healthcare through YTHS, finding part-time work, and protecting yourself against wage underpayment.

Academic Year 2024–2026Aliens Act § 77
30 h/wkterm-time work limit

Full-time work permitted during university summer and winter holiday recesses.

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Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) ReferenceAliens Act Sourced
Legal reference: Ulkomaalaislaki (301/2004) § 77
Verified from migri.fi
Rule in Force

30 Hours Per Week Average Working Limit (Calendar Year Basis)

Following the legislative reform in June 2022, students holding a Finnish residence permit for studies (opiskelijan oleskelulupa) are entitled to work up to an average of 30 hours per week over the entire calendar year.

During periods when educational institutions do not hold instruction (summer recess and winter holidays), students may work full-time without hours caps. All collective agreement pay scales (TES) apply equally to student workers.

Term-Time Cap30.0 h/week avg.
Holiday Recess CapUnlimited (40h+)
Source: Finnish Immigration Service Guidelines for Degree StudentsVerify on Migri.fi →
Student Practical Knowledge

Student Life, Budget & Employment Pillars

Clear facts on housing subsidies, tax cards, entry-level jobs, and post-graduation visa pathways.

01 / Statutory LimitLegal & Working Hours

Working Hours Limits for Students (30h/wk)

Following legislation in force since June 2022, international students holding a Finnish residence permit for studies are legally entitled to work up to an average of 30 hours per week during term time, and unlimited hours during official holidays.

Key Facts:
  • Term-time average: Calculated over the academic year, allowing flexible week-to-week variations as long as the 30h average is maintained.
  • Summer & Winter Recess: During official school holiday periods when no teaching takes place, students may work full-time (up to 40h/week or more) without restriction.
Read complete guide
02 / Student JobsEmployment

Best Jobs for International Students

Many international students in Finland work part-time in sectors where English is widely accepted or language requirements are minimal. Explore common sectors, verified pay baselines, and practical entry routes.

Key Facts:
  • Verified Base Hourly Pay: Starts at €11.33 (Trainee) to €12.59+ (Grade 2).
  • Evening & Night Additions: €0.73/h evening supplement and €1.36/h night supplement.
Read complete guide
03 / Monthly BudgetFinance & Living

Cost of Living for Students in Finland

Finland offers substantial institutional student benefits—including government-subsidized student housing, €2.95 university cafeteria lunches, and 50% public transit discounts—making monthly living costs predictable.

Key Facts:
  • Student Housing (HOAS, TOAS, TYS, PSOAS): €280 – €550 / month (includes water, electricity, heating, and internet).
  • Groceries & Food: €200 – €300 / month (leveraging €2.95 student cafeteria meals).
Read complete guide
04 / Migri PermitsImmigration & Legal

Student Residence Permits & Post-Graduation

Non-EU/EEA degree students must secure a residence permit for studies from the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) prior to arrival. Permits are issued for the entire duration of degree studies.

Key Facts:
  • Financial proof: Bank account statement under the student's name showing at least €6,720 per year.
  • Health Insurance: Non-EU students must maintain private health insurance covering medical expenses up to €120,000 (if studies are under 2 years) or €40,000 (if studies are 2+ years).
Read complete guide

Estimate your student monthly earnings

Convert your part-time hourly rate (e.g. cleaning €12.59/h or restaurant €12.70/h) into weekly and monthly gross pay at 15h, 20h, or 30h per week.

Open Salary CalculatorBrowse Hourly Wages