Finland is known for its supportive environment for entrepreneurs, making it an excellent place to start your business. Whether you're a local or a resident from an EEA country, Finland offers a streamlined process and financial support for aspiring entrepreneurs. Here’s everything you need to know.
Who Can Start a Business in Finland?
Starting a business in Finland is accessible to a wide range of individuals, including:
- Citizens of Nordic, EU, EEA countries, and Switzerland:
- No residence permit is required.
- Non-EU/EEA Citizens:
- Must hold a valid residence permit.
Important Note:
- The need for a permit depends on your place of residence, not your nationality.
- Permanent residents of EEA countries can also start a business in Finland without additional permits.
Why Choose Finland for Your Business?
- Government Support:
- The Finnish Government encourages entrepreneurship by offering financial aid.
- Eligible new entrepreneurs can receive startup grants of approximately €700/month during the early stages. The grant may vary. Check Expact Finland for the right grant.
- Ease of Registration:
- The process is fast, smooth, and largely digital.
- Diverse Business Structures:
- Options include General Partnerships, Limited Partnerships, Cooperatives, Non-Profit Organizations, Private Entrepreneurs (sole proprietors), and more.
How to Register a Business in Finland
Choose Your Business Type:
- Identify the structure that best suits your goals:
- Private Entrepreneur (Toiminimi): Ideal for sole proprietors.
- General Partnership (Avoin Yhtiö): Requires at least two partners.
- Limited Partnership (Kommandiittiyhtiö): Allows silent partners.
- Limited Liability Company (Osakeyhtiö): Common for scalable businesses.
- Cooperative (Osuuskunta): Perfect for shared ventures.
- Identify the structure that best suits your goals:
File Your Registration:
- Submit your business application to the Trade Register (maintained by the Finnish Patent and Registration Office).
- You can register online through the Business Information System (BIS) portal.
Pay Registration Fees:
- Fees depend on the type of business but typically range between €60-380.
Obtain Necessary Permits:
- Certain businesses (e.g., food, healthcare) require specific licenses or permits.
Financial and Administrative Support
Startup Grants:
- Provided by the Employment and Economic Development Offices (TE Offices).
- Application involves submitting a business plan and financial projections.
Taxation:
- Register for VAT if your annual turnover exceeds €15,000.
- File taxes through the Finnish Tax Administration (Vero).
- Check vero for tax related matters.
Banking:
- Open a business bank account for smooth transactions.
Additional Tips for Success
- Create a Solid Business Plan:
- This is crucial for grant applications and attracting investors.
- Utilize Finnish Networks:
- Join local entrepreneurial groups, such as Finnvera (for funding) and NewCo Helsinki (for mentorship and advice).
- Leverage Digital Tools:
- Finland offers numerous online resources for bookkeeping, marketing, and customer management.
- Understand Finnish Business Culture:
- Punctuality, trust, and transparency are highly valued.
Conclusion
Entrepreneurship in Finland is a promising path, supported by government incentives, efficient registration processes, and a stable business environment. By following these steps and taking advantage of available resources, you can build a successful business in Finland.
For more guidance on starting your entrepreneurial journey, consult the official website of the Finnish Patent and Registration Office or visit your local TE Office for personalized assistance.
Click here to read more about doing a business in Finland.
We will soon post a demo video on our YouTube channel about registering a business.
STEP BY STEP GUIDE FOR REGISTERING A BUSINESS.