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01 / Statutory LimitLegal & Working Hours

International Student Working Hours in Finland: Sourced Guide

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.

1

The 30-Hour Average Rule Explained (Aliens Act § 77)

Under Section 77 of the Finnish Aliens Act (Ulkomaalaislaki 301/2004), a student residence permit grants unrestricted right to engage in gainful employment if the average working hours do not exceed 30 hours per week across the calendar year.

Key Rules & Breakdown:
  • 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.
  • Internships & Practical Training: Mandatory degree practical training (harjoittelu) and thesis work are exempt from the 30-hour limitation.
Official Authority Source:Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) — Working During Studies
2

Collective Agreement Protection for Student Workers

Student employees in Finland enjoy identical legal rights, minimum wage floors, and working condition protections as full-time Finnish employees. Employers are legally prohibited from paying below the applicable collective agreement (TES) rate simply because a worker is a student or foreign national.

Official Authority Source:Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Työsuojelu)
3

Tax Cards and Verokortti for Students

All student income in Finland is subject to Finnish taxation. Before receiving your first paycheck, you must obtain a tax card (verokortti) from the Finnish Tax Administration (Verohallinto). If your estimated annual income is low, your withholding tax percentage may be 0% or very low.

Official Authority Source:Verohallinto — Student Taxation Guide
Legal Disclaimer: Labour Finland provides general informational content about wages and working life in Finland. We aim to keep information accurate and up to date, but collective agreements, legislation, wage levels and employment conditions can change. Information on this website should not be considered individualized legal, tax or employment advice. Always verify important information with the applicable collective agreement, your employer, relevant organization or competent authority.