Finland is renowned for its fair and supportive work culture, rooted in strong labor laws and collective agreements that ensure the well-being of employees. If you’re planning to work in Finland, understanding the country’s work culture and legal framework is essential.
Key Features of Finland’s Work Culture
Equality and Respect:
- Finnish workplaces emphasize flat hierarchies, promoting mutual respect and equality between employers and employees.
- Employees are encouraged to share ideas, and teamwork is highly valued.
Work-Life Balance:
- Finland is committed to maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Flexible working hours, part-time opportunities, and remote work options are common.
- Paid parental leave and generous vacation policies further support personal well-being.
Punctuality:
- Finns value punctuality as a sign of professionalism. Meetings and work schedules are expected to start and end on time.
Focus on Efficiency:
- Finnish work culture prioritizes productivity over long hours. It’s common to work efficiently during the day and leave on time.
Laws Governing Working Life in Finland
The Finnish labor market is regulated by a combination of national laws and collective agreements. Here are the main legal frameworks:
1. Employment Contracts
- Written Contracts:
- Employment contracts can be fixed-term or permanent and must specify job responsibilities, working hours, and salary.
- Verbal contracts are valid but rare; written agreements are preferred for clarity.
- It can be fulltime or partrime work contracts.
2. Working Hours
- Standard Hours:
- The Working Hours Act limits standard working hours to 7.5/8 hours per day or 37.5/40 hours per week.
- Flexible Hours:
- Employers and employees can agree on flexible work schedules, including remote work.
- 30 hr per week or 20 hr. Or on call job with 0 -40hr.
3. Overtime and Compensation
- Overtime Pay:
- Employees are entitled to overtime pay, typically at 100-200% of the regular hourly wage, depending on the collective agreement.
- Contact your employer for overtime pay scale.
4. Paid Leave
- Annual Leave:
- Employees earn 2.5 vacation days per month, amounting to approximately 30 days of paid leave per year.
- Besides these you also get VUOSIVAPPA for the extra hours you worked. Mostly for monthly contract workers with monthly fixed salary and hours.
- Public Holidays:
- Finland observes 13 public holidays annually, which are typically non-working days. Check info web portal for Holidays.
- Finland also practises summer holiday, winter holiday, spring holiday, all academic field are closed on these extra holidays.
- Parental Leave:
- Parental leave policies are among the best globally, with paid leave available for both parents.
- Check Employement web portal for any updates.
5. Workplace Safety
- Occupational Safety and Health Act:
- Employers must ensure a safe and healthy working environment.
- Insurance:
- All employees are covered by mandatory accident insurance.
6. Termination of Employment
- Notice Periods:
- Termination notice periods range from 14 days to 6 months, depending on the length of employment.
- You can terminate work anytime during the prohibition/training period.
- Protection Against Unfair Dismissal:
- Employers must have valid reasons for termination, such as redundancy or misconduct.
- It is very illegal to fire a permanent worker without strong reason.
- You can contact work Union for any unfair practices at work premises.
Collective Agreements (TES)
- Role of Collective Agreements:
- Most industries in Finland follow sector-specific collective agreements (Työehtosopimus, TES), which set minimum standards for wages, benefits, and working conditions.
- These agreements often go beyond the basic legal requirements, ensuring better employee benefits.
- Coverage:
- TES applies to both Finnish and foreign employees in the covered sectors.
Employee Rights and Benefits
- Equality:
- Discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, religion, or other factors is strictly prohibited.
- Sick Leave:
- Employees are entitled to full pay for the initial period of illness, typically up to 9 days, depending on the employer’s policies.
- You dont need any doctor certificate for 3 days leave, just call your employer and check.
- Health Services:
- Employers must provide occupational healthcare services to employees.
- Union Membership:
- Many Finnish workers are union members, which provides additional legal protection and benefits.
Adapting to Finland’s Work Culture
- Be Professional:
- Punctuality, honesty, and clear communication are valued.
- Learn Finnish:
- While English is widely spoken, learning Finnish can help you integrate better.
- Embrace Collaboration:
- Teams often work together to achieve goals, and contributions from all members are appreciated.
- Take Breaks Seriously:
- The concept of “kahvitauko” (coffee break) is an integral part of Finnish work culture.
- You are entitle for a 10 min coffee break for work lasting 4 hrs.
- A total of 30 min, 20 min lunch and 10 min coffee break for full time workers or work lasting over 6hrs.
Conclusion
Finland’s work culture reflects its commitment to fairness, efficiency, and employee well-being. By understanding the country’s labor laws and adapting to its workplace norms, you can build a successful and fulfilling career in Finland.
For more detailed information, visit the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment or consult your employer’s HR department.
You can get advice for free in Finnish or English.The service is open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 9–11 am and 12 noon–3 pm.
Tel. 0800 414 004
E-mail: workinfinland(at)sak.fi
You can also call the national counselling service of occupational safety and health authorities:
tel. 0295 016 620
Mon–Fri 9 am–3 pm
Click here more information about the rights of worker.
Click here to join worker unions in Finland.
How to search jobs in Finland?
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