Social security internationally

The Finnish social security system is largely based on residence in Finland. A person arriving in Finland for work purposes is entitled to residence-based benefits even if they do not live in Finland.

The entitlement to residence-based benefits of those migrating from Finland depends on the duration of and the reason for their stay abroad, and on the country of temporary or permanent residence. 

The Social Insurance Institution of Finland (Kela) is responsible for residence-based social security. 

Employees and self-employed persons who work in Finland are covered by the Finnish employee pension scheme. Employers are required to insure their employees against occupational accidents and diseases

Coordination of social security between different countries

Finland’s national legislation, the EU legislation and social security agreements contain provisions regarding the coordination of international social security.

EU legislation contains provisions concerning the social security of persons moving between the EU and EEA member states and Switzerland. Coordination of social security between these countries ensures the entitlement to social security of persons moving from one country to another. 

Social security agreements

The Nordic Social Security Convention and the Nordic Convention on Social Assistance and Social Services supplement EU legislation.

Also, Finland has separate agreements on social security with some countries, including bilateral agreements with Australia, Chile, Israel, Canada, the United States, China, South Korea, Japan and India. There is a separate agreement with the Canadian province of Quebec. Finland also has an agreement with Australia on medical care.

Exchange of social security information between Estonia and Finland

In October 2023, Finland and Estonia signed a Memorandum of Understanding on increasing the exchange of information concerning social security. The aim is to improve the implementation of social security and to prevent errors and abuse.

Further information