Part-Time Jobs in Finland for International Students

For international students, managing living expenses while studying abroad is a common concern. In Finland, students enrolled in full-time academic programs are allowed to work part-time for up to 30 hours per week. This provides students with an excellent opportunity to ease their financial burden while gaining valuable work experience. 

While Finland does not have a standard national minimum wage, most workers are covered under sector-specific collective agreements, which ensure fair pay based on skills, experience, and the workplace’s location. Interestingly, Finland’s minimum wage levels across industries rank among the highest in Europe, making part-time work a reliable option for students.

Studying in Finland offers incredible opportunities, from globally ranked universities to a focus on sustainability and innovation. However, the cost of living, especially in cities like Helsinki, can be challenging for international students. With tuition fees ranging from EUR 5,000 to 18,000 per year (approximately INR 4,40,000–15,80,000) and monthly living costs of EUR 700–1,200 (approximately INR 62,000–1,06,000), managing finances becomes a priority.

Taking up a part-time job can significantly ease this burden. Students in Finland earn an average of EUR 9–15 per hour (approximately INR 800–1,300) and typically work 10–25 hours per week, allowing them to earn up to EUR 1,500 per month (approximately INR 1,33,000). Beyond the financial aspect, part-time jobs are a gateway to learning Finnish work ethics, gaining professional experience, and expanding your local network.

Suggested: Finland To Offer Easier PR Permit To Foreign Students

Working part-time in Finland offers international students financial support to manage living costs while studying. It also provides practical work experience, improves language skills, and fosters cultural integration. 

Additionally, part-time jobs help students build professional networks, enhance their resumes, and adapt to Finland’s work environment, preparing them for future careers.

• Financial Independence: Earn income to manage living expenses.

• Work Experience: Gain practical skills and industry exposure.

• Cultural Integration: Adapt to Finnish culture and lifestyle.

• Language Skills: Improve communication and fluency.

• Networking: Build connections for future opportunities.

• Resume Enhancement: Strengthen your profile for job markets.

• Work-Life Balance: Flexible hours to balance studies and work.

International students in Finland can work part-time during their studies, typically up to 30 hours per week. Eligibility requires a valid residence permit for studies and enrollment in a recognized institution. The job must not hinder academic progress, and proficiency in English or Finnish is often essential.

Key points to keep in mind:

• You need a valid residence permit for your studies.

• Enroll in a recognized Finnish institution.

• Work up to 30 hours per week during studies.

• Ensure your job does not interfere with academics.

• Proficiency in English or Finnish may be required.

In Finland, international students can find part-time jobs in sectors like retail, hospitality, food delivery, and cleaning. University campuses often offer roles such as research assistants or library aides.

1. On-Campus Jobs

On-campus jobs in Finland are ideal for international students, offering flexible work hours and proximity to academic resources.

• Research assistant roles in university projects.

• Library aide assisting with book organisation and management.

• Student tutor guiding new students through university processes.

• It supports jobs for maintaining campus systems.

2. Off-Campus Jobs

Off-campus jobs in Finland allow students to gain work experience while earning extra income.

• Retail staff in shops and supermarkets.

• Food delivery drivers for services like Wolt or Foodora.

• Hospitality roles in cafes, restaurants, or hotels.

• Cleaning jobs in residential or commercial areas.

In Finland, top companies offering part-time jobs for international students include Wolt, a food delivery service; Nordea, a major bank hiring in customer service; S Group, a retail and hospitality giant; Helsinki University, with on-campus roles; and UPM-Kymmene, providing opportunities in manufacturing and technology sectors.

Here are some top companies in Finland where international students can find part-time job opportunities:

• Wolt – A popular food delivery service offering flexible work for couriers.

• Nordea – A leading bank that hires students for part-time roles in customer service and administrative support.

• S Group – A Finnish retail giant with part-time positions in supermarkets, restaurants, and hotels.

• Helsinki University – Offers on-campus job opportunities for students in research, tutoring, and library services.

• UPM-Kymmene – A global company providing opportunities for students in part-time roles in the manufacturing and technology sectors.

Suggested: 10 Most Affordable Countries to Study Abroad

The average part-time salary for international students in Finland ranges between EUR 9 to EUR 15 per hour, depending on the industry and job role. The salary can vary based on location and experience, with higher-paying positions typically found in technology or customer service sectors.

Finding a part-time job in Finland involves searching through university job portals, and local job boards, and networking with other students. Many international students also find work through recruitment agencies, or by directly contacting businesses in sectors like hospitality, retail, or delivery services.

• University Job Portals: Check for on-campus job listings available to students.

• Local Job Boards: Use Oikotie, Duunitori, or TE Services.

• Networking: Connect with fellow students, local businesses, and community events.

• Recruitment Agencies: Approach agencies that assist with job placement.

• Direct Approach: Visit local businesses and inquire about open positions.

Several online platforms can help international students find part-time jobs in Finland. Websites like Oikotie, Duunitori, and TE Services offer job listings across various sectors. LinkedIn and student-specific portals such as StudentJob.fi also provide job opportunities. These platforms make job hunting efficient and accessible for international students.

• Oikotie: Popular platform for various job listings.
• Duunitori: Offers a wide range of part-time and full-time job opportunities.
• TE Services: Government-run portal for job search and employment services.
• LinkedIn: Professional networking site with job listings.
• StudentJob.fi: Focused on student job opportunities in Finland.

Finland offers a balanced approach to study and part-time work, with opportunities in top firms like Nokia and Wärtsilä. Students can earn well and benefit from Finland’s world-class education system.

Take your dreams to Finland with Yocket Premium. Receive personalized support for university selection, applications, and work opportunities to thrive in Finland’s thriving economy.