“By 2030, Finland is projected to need over 30,000 new healthcare professionals—including foreign-trained nurses—to meet its aging population’s needs.”
Explore high-demand nursing jobs in Finland with visa sponsorship. Learn the application steps, licensing process, salary expectations, and how to work legally as a nurse in Finland.
Finland is one of Europe’s most stable and welfare-oriented nations, with a strong emphasis on public healthcare. However, like many developed countries, it faces a growing shortage of qualified medical staff—especially nurses. To address this, the Finnish government and healthcare institutions are actively recruiting foreign-trained nurses with visa sponsorship opportunities.
Whether you’re a registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, or nursing assistant, this guide will walk you through how to find nursing jobs in Finland with visa sponsorship, the steps to get licensed, salary expectations, and how to start your professional journey in this progressive Nordic country.
Why Finland Is Hiring Foreign Nurses
There are three major drivers behind Finland’s increased demand for nursing professionals:
- Aging population – Finland has one of the fastest-aging populations in Europe.
- Low birth rates – There are fewer young people to enter the healthcare workforce.
- Rising healthcare demand – Chronic diseases and elderly care are growing burdens.
To fill the gap, the Finnish healthcare system now looks outward for skilled foreign nurses, offering legal work visas, training programs, and long-term residence opportunities.
Can Foreign Nurses Work in Finland?
Yes—qualified non-EU nurses can work in Finland, but they must go through a credential recognition process and obtain a residence permit for employment.
Finland offers visa sponsorship for foreign nurses through:
- Hospitals
- Private nursing homes
- Homecare agencies
- Municipal healthcare systems
- Recruitment agencies
Most employers will sponsor your visa and help with your integration process.
Types of Nursing Jobs Available in Finland
| Job Title | Description | Average Monthly Salary (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse (RN) | General nursing in hospitals or clinics | €2,800 – €3,800 |
| Practical Nurse (LPN) | Support role, elderly care, rehabilitation units | €2,000 – €2,800 |
| Nursing Assistant | Basic care tasks, often non-licensed | €1,800 – €2,400 |
| Homecare Nurse | Patient visits at home, chronic condition support | €2,600 – €3,500 |
| Geriatric Nurse | Specialized in elderly care settings | €2,700 – €3,700 |
Note: Most jobs offer additional benefits such as housing assistance, language training, and paid annual leave.
Visa Sponsorship Process for Nurses in Finland
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
Apply to hospitals, nursing homes, or agencies that hire foreign nurses and are willing to sponsor your visa.
Step 2: Recognition of Foreign Qualifications
Submit your diploma and documents to Valvira (Finnish National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health) for recognition.
Step 3: Apply for Residence Permit
Once Valvira gives approval or conditional approval, your employer helps apply for a residence permit for employment.
Step 4: Relocate and Begin Work
After the permit is approved, you can enter Finland legally and begin working—usually starting with language and orientation training.
Requirements for Foreign Nurses
To qualify for nursing jobs in Finland with sponsorship:
- Hold a recognized nursing degree or diploma
- Have valid nursing registration in your home country
- Meet Finnish or EU standards for nursing practice
- Clean criminal record and medical clearance
- Pass Valvira’s recognition and assessment process
- Basic Finnish language skills (A2–B1) required before working directly with patients
What is Valvira and Why is it Important?
Valvira is the licensing authority that evaluates foreign health professionals’ credentials. To work as a nurse in Finland, your qualifications must be recognized by Valvira.
Documents you’ll need:
- Nursing degree certificates
- Transcript of records
- Proof of nursing license/registration
- Work experience certificates
- Language course certificate (if applicable)
- Passport and CV
Some foreign nurses may be required to take supplementary training or pass an exam in Finland before being fully licensed.
Where to Find Nursing Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in Finland
Top platforms and recruiters:
- TE-palvelut.fi – Finland’s official employment portal
- Mehiläinen.fi – One of the largest private healthcare providers
- Esperi Care – Specializes in elder and disabled care
- Attendo.fi – Private social and healthcare company
- SiltaValmennus.fi – Known for nurse integration programs
- LinkedIn Jobs
- Indeed.fi – Use keywords like “nurse visa sponsorship” or “registered nurse foreign”
Search terms:
“Nursing job offer Finland with sponsorship”
“Valvira-approved nurse recruitment”
“Foreign nurse jobs Finland”
Language Requirements for Nurses in Finland
While many Finns speak English, you must know Finnish (or Swedish) to communicate with patients and comply with legal standards in healthcare.
Recommended levels:
- A2 – Basic conversation (for assistant or support roles)
- B1–B2 – Required for registered nurses
Many employers provide free Finnish language training as part of onboarding.
Life in Finland as a Foreign Nurse
Pros:
- High-quality healthcare system
- Clean, safe, and peaceful environment
- Strong employee rights and union support
- Long-term residency and family reunification options
- Free schooling and health services for children
Challenges:
- Cold winters and short daylight during certain seasons
- Language barrier (initially)
- High cost of living (especially in Helsinki)
Still, many nurses report excellent job satisfaction, career growth, and financial stability.
Permanent Residency and Career Growth
Finland supports long-term immigration for skilled professionals:
- After 4 years of working under a residence permit, you can apply for permanent residence
- Family members can apply for reunification visas
- You can upskill to specialized nursing roles or move into management
- Eligible for EU long-term residence after 5 years of legal stay
Tips to Boost Your Chances of Getting Hired
- Start Finnish language training before applying
- Prepare all Valvira documents early and get them translated
- Choose employers who offer full relocation support
- Join international nurse support groups online (e.g., Facebook)
- Apply to multiple roles and follow up with agencies
Final Thoughts
If you’re a nurse looking for a stable, high-paying, and socially respected job in Europe, nursing jobs in Finland with visa sponsorship may be your perfect fit. With structured immigration pathways, generous benefits, and a welcoming healthcare system, Finland offers a future where your skills are valued—and your life goals are within reach.
Start preparing today and take the first step toward a secure and rewarding nursing career in Finland.
