Family-friendly Finland

Starting a family in Finland is safe and affordable. In addition to its top-tier universal healthcare system, Finland has the world’s second lowest infant mortality rate, and hospitals provide top quality care to mothers and babies at an affordable cost – for example after birth, for roughly 50 euros per day. Additionally, every family receives a free maternity package, or “baby box,” that contains more than 40 items ranging from baby clothes to care products. 

Free, high-quality municipal clinics support pregnant women and families with young children, as well as following the child’s physical, psychological, and social growth from the womb until they go to school. Besides looking after the child, young families are supported in becoming parents, taking care of themselves, and maintaining their relationship. 

Opportunities for family leave are generous and numerous, with job security for parents who need to take time off to care for babies and young children. In August 2022, for example, a new Act went into effect that allocates a total of 320 days of parental leave for families welcoming a new child into the family. This law applies to both biological and adoptive parents, and leave time can be split between parents any way a family sees fit to support good work-life balance.

Finnish preschools and secondary schools are free of charge and enrollment is mandatory. Designed to prepare children for comprehensive school, preschools typically welcome children around six years old. At seven, most children begin comprehensive school. This is also free and generally lasts nine years. After completing comprehensive school, teens can choose to attend either vocational or upper secondary school. The latter aims to prepare students for the university matriculation exam, and ultimately, 3-4 years of subsequent study at a university. 

If you’re concerned about the language barrier, know that nine out of 10 Finns speak fluent English, and half of the adult population speaks three or more foreign languages. There are multiple international schools – public and private – that provide tuition in international languages. Municipal schools in bigger cities also have preparatory classes that teach Finnish language and culture, easing the transition for foreign students. 

Finland has 13 universities, including several that are highly rated on the Shanghai ranking, and additionally 22 universities of applied sciences that offer professionally oriented higher education.

The Finnish higher education institutions offer a range scholarship options for non-EU students admitted to their fee-charging degree programs. You can also be exempted from the tuition fees depending for example on your residence status in Finland, or if you are an EU citizen.

Read more about Finnish school system, where education is not only free from preschool to university but also includes textbooks, learning materials, equipment, and even delicious school meals, creating a truly comprehensive system. Schools in Finland - This Works! website uncovers ten remarkable aspects that showcase the uniqueness of the Finnish school system!

There’s no denying that Finland is a great place for families. Aside from having one of the world’s best school systems, the country’s emphasis on work-life balance and many paid parental leave options make it possible to spend plenty of quality time with loved ones. 

In fact, a recent global study from Expat Insider found Finland is among the best countries for quality of life abroad, ranking high for safety, digital life, air quality, and sanitation. And 99% of expats say they feel safe in Finland – significantly higher than the 84% global average. 

Finally, UNICEF ranks Finland one of the top five nations globally for quality childcare and childhood well-being. For more information on family in Finland, visit this website.