The Importance of Employment Contract Terms in Finland: What to Pay Attention to Before Signing
An employment contract is the main document that defines the rights and responsibilities of both the employee and the employer. In Finland, having an employment contract is mandatory, and it must be in written form if the job lasts more than one month.
Why is it important to carefully read and check the contract terms?
Errors or unclear wording can lead to financial losses, unpaid overtime, or problems during dismissal.
Key Terms That Should Be in an Employment Contract
Before signing, make sure that the contract includes:
✅ Working hours – the standard workweek in Finland is 40 hours, but individual agreements may apply.
✅ Salary and payment terms – it is important that the rate and payment frequency are clearly specified.
✅ Leave and sick pay conditions – by law, employees earn 2.5 days of leave for each full month worked.
✅ Overtime and night shift pay – if overtime is not clearly stated, the employer may refuse to pay extra.
✅ Notice periods for termination – depending on work experience, the notice period can range from 14 days to 6 months.
✅ Probation period – by law, it cannot exceed 6 months.
Common Mistakes When Signing a Contract
❌ No written contract – verbal agreements are difficult to prove.
❌ Unspecified overtime conditions – overtime must be paid separately.
❌ Lack of leave and sick pay compensation – make sure these terms are included in the contract.
How to Protect Your Rights?
🔹 Always request a written contract before starting work.
🔹 Carefully read all terms, especially the fine print.
🔹 Consult a lawyer if anything is unclear.
🔹 If the employer violates the contract, contact the Labour Inspectorate (Työsuojelu) or a trade union.
📌 Conclusion: The employment contract is your guarantee of stability. To avoid problems, carefully review the terms before signing.
An employment contract is the main document that defines the rights and responsibilities of both the employee and the employer. In Finland, having an employment contract is mandatory, and it must be in written form if the job lasts more than one month.
Why is it important to carefully read and check the contract terms?
Errors or unclear wording can lead to financial losses, unpaid overtime, or problems during dismissal.
Key Terms That Should Be in an Employment Contract
Before signing, make sure that the contract includes:
✅ Working hours – the standard workweek in Finland is 40 hours, but individual agreements may apply.
✅ Salary and payment terms – it is important that the rate and payment frequency are clearly specified.
✅ Leave and sick pay conditions – by law, employees earn 2.5 days of leave for each full month worked.
✅ Overtime and night shift pay – if overtime is not clearly stated, the employer may refuse to pay extra.
✅ Notice periods for termination – depending on work experience, the notice period can range from 14 days to 6 months.
✅ Probation period – by law, it cannot exceed 6 months.
Common Mistakes When Signing a Contract
❌ No written contract – verbal agreements are difficult to prove.
❌ Unspecified overtime conditions – overtime must be paid separately.
❌ Lack of leave and sick pay compensation – make sure these terms are included in the contract.
How to Protect Your Rights?
🔹 Always request a written contract before starting work.
🔹 Carefully read all terms, especially the fine print.
🔹 Consult a lawyer if anything is unclear.
🔹 If the employer violates the contract, contact the Labour Inspectorate (Työsuojelu) or a trade union.
📌 Conclusion: The employment contract is your guarantee of stability. To avoid problems, carefully review the terms before signing.
