Työsopimus: employment contract

Detailed explanation

In Finland, an employment contract can technically be oral, written, or even implied through behavior. However, a written contract is strongly recommended and is standard practice. Employers are legally required to provide written information about the main terms of employment within one month of starting work, even if there is no formal written contract.

The Employment Contracts Act (Työsopimuslaki) provides a framework of minimum protections that apply to all employment relationships in Finland. Your contract cannot give you fewer rights than the law provides — any such terms are automatically invalid. Additionally, if a collective agreement (työehtosopimus or TES) applies to your workplace or industry, its terms override any less favorable provisions in your individual contract.

Employment contracts in Finland are either:

Toistaiseksi voimassa oleva (permanent/indefinite): The standard form, continuing until either party terminates it with proper notice. This provides the strongest job security. Määräaikainen (fixed-term): Limited to a specific period, ending automatically. Employers must have a valid legal reason for using fixed-term contracts, such as project work, seasonal needs, or substituting for someone on leave.

How it affects expats

• •Language rights: Request the contract in a language you understand, though Finnish/Swedish are official languages

• •Residence permit link: Your work permit may be tied to a specific employer, making the contract especially important

• •Take time to review: Don't feel pressured to sign immediately; ask for clarification on anything unclear

• •Keep copies: Always maintain your own copies of the signed contract and any amendments

• •Verbal promises: Get any promises made during interviews documented in the written contract

• •TES benefits: Check which collective agreement applies to understand your full entitlements

Essential contract elements

Every employment contract should clearly state:

Basic terms:

• •Your job title and main duties

• •Start date

• •Contract type (permanent or fixed-term with end date and reason)

• •Workplace location

• •Working hours (typically 37.5-40 hours/week)

Compensation:

• •Gross monthly or hourly salary

• •Payment schedule (usually monthly)

• •Any bonuses, commissions, or variable pay

• •Benefits (lunch, phone, etc.)

Time-related terms:

• •Trial period length (if any, maximum 6 months)

• •Notice period for both parties

• •Annual leave accrual

• •Collective agreement (TES) that applies

What to check before signing

• Salary matches offer: Verify the amount and any discussed benefits

• Job description accuracy: Ensure duties match what was discussed

• Working hours: Understand expectations for overtime and flexibility

• Trial period: Know how long and the notice period during trial

• Non-compete clauses: Understand any restrictions on future employment

• Collective agreement: Research the TES to understand additional benefits

• Remote work policies: If relevant, ensure arrangements are documented

Your rights under Finnish law

Regardless of what your contract says, Finnish law guarantees:

• •Minimum annual leave (2-2.5 days per month)

• •Protection from unfair dismissal

• •Equality and non-discrimination

• •Safe working conditions

• •Protection of personal privacy at work

• •Right to form and join trade unions

Related terms

• •Probation Period (Koeaika) — An initial period in an employment relationship with special termination rules

• •Notice Period (Irtisanomisaika) — The required time between giving notice and the employment ending

• •Collective Agreement (TES) — Industry-wide minimum employment conditions in Finland, set by collective bargaining

• •Palkka (Salary) — Finnish term for salary or wages

• •Annual Leave (Vuosiloma) — Paid vacation days accrued while working