🇫🇮 Employment Law in Finland
Finland is known for its stable economy and high level of social protection, making it an attractive destination for professionals in various fields, including construction workers, drivers, and cleaners. However, to work successfully in this country, it is important to understand the specifics of labor legislation and be aware of your rights and obligations.
Official Employment
In Finland, all employment relationships must be formally documented. An employment contract can be permanent(indefinite), fixed-term (for a specific period), or part-time. The contract must be in written form, especially if the employment lasts for more than one month. It should specify the working conditions, including salary, working hours, and job responsibilities.
Salary
Finland does not have a universal minimum wage law. Wages are determined by collective agreements(työehtosopimus, TES) for each industry. Even if you are not a member of a trade union, the collective agreement terms still apply if you work in the relevant sector.
Examples of median salaries by profession (2023):
Salaries may vary depending on the region and specific employer.
Working Hours and Overtime
The standard workweek in Finland is 40 hours, typically 8 hours per day. Overtime is paid separately, and the payment terms are determined by collective agreements or employment contracts. Employers must comply with working time regulations and ensure that employees have the right to rest.
Leave and Sick Pay
Employees are entitled to paid annual leave. Typically, 2.5 days of leave are earned for each full month of work, totaling about 30 calendar days per year, including weekends. Additionally, paid sick leave and parental leave are provided for both parents.
Protection Against Dismissal
Finnish law protects employees from unfair dismissals. An employer can terminate an employment contract only for valid reasons, such as violation of work discipline, serious financial difficulties of the company, or business closure.
Notice periods for dismissal depend on work experience and range from 14 days to 6 months.
Trade Unions and Collective Agreements
Finland has a strong trade union system, which plays a key role in protecting workers' rights. Being a union member provides additional guarantees, such as:
✔ Legal support
✔ Assistance in disputes with employers
✔ Protection in case of dismissal
Trade unions also participate in negotiating wages and working conditions, ensuring fair conditions for employees.
Workplace Safety
Employers are required to provide safe working conditions. This includes:
✔ Safety training
✔ Provision of personal protective equipment
✔ Compliance with occupational safety regulations
For example, construction workers must complete safety training and obtain a valid safety certificate before starting work.
Conclusion
Understanding Finland's labor legislation is a key factor in having a successful work experience in the country. Knowing your rights and obligations will help you avoid problems and ensure stable and safe employment.
Finland is known for its stable economy and high level of social protection, making it an attractive destination for professionals in various fields, including construction workers, drivers, and cleaners. However, to work successfully in this country, it is important to understand the specifics of labor legislation and be aware of your rights and obligations.
Official Employment
In Finland, all employment relationships must be formally documented. An employment contract can be permanent(indefinite), fixed-term (for a specific period), or part-time. The contract must be in written form, especially if the employment lasts for more than one month. It should specify the working conditions, including salary, working hours, and job responsibilities.
Salary
Finland does not have a universal minimum wage law. Wages are determined by collective agreements(työehtosopimus, TES) for each industry. Even if you are not a member of a trade union, the collective agreement terms still apply if you work in the relevant sector.
Examples of median salaries by profession (2023):
- Drivers: €3,400 per month
- Construction workers: €3,300 per month
- Cleaners: €2,300 per month
Salaries may vary depending on the region and specific employer.
Working Hours and Overtime
The standard workweek in Finland is 40 hours, typically 8 hours per day. Overtime is paid separately, and the payment terms are determined by collective agreements or employment contracts. Employers must comply with working time regulations and ensure that employees have the right to rest.
Leave and Sick Pay
Employees are entitled to paid annual leave. Typically, 2.5 days of leave are earned for each full month of work, totaling about 30 calendar days per year, including weekends. Additionally, paid sick leave and parental leave are provided for both parents.
Protection Against Dismissal
Finnish law protects employees from unfair dismissals. An employer can terminate an employment contract only for valid reasons, such as violation of work discipline, serious financial difficulties of the company, or business closure.
Notice periods for dismissal depend on work experience and range from 14 days to 6 months.
Trade Unions and Collective Agreements
Finland has a strong trade union system, which plays a key role in protecting workers' rights. Being a union member provides additional guarantees, such as:
✔ Legal support
✔ Assistance in disputes with employers
✔ Protection in case of dismissal
Trade unions also participate in negotiating wages and working conditions, ensuring fair conditions for employees.
Workplace Safety
Employers are required to provide safe working conditions. This includes:
✔ Safety training
✔ Provision of personal protective equipment
✔ Compliance with occupational safety regulations
For example, construction workers must complete safety training and obtain a valid safety certificate before starting work.
Conclusion
Understanding Finland's labor legislation is a key factor in having a successful work experience in the country. Knowing your rights and obligations will help you avoid problems and ensure stable and safe employment.
