Problems at work and exploitation
Underpayment, mistreatment, labour exploitation and human trafficking.
In immediate danger?
Call 112 for police or an ambulance. It is free and works even without a SIM card or credit. The 112 Suomi app shares your location.
You have the same rights at work as everyone else in Finland. If your employer underpays you, mistreats you, or pressures you, you can get help — and asking for help does not automatically put your residence permit at risk.
Some situations are warning signs of serious exploitation: being paid far less than agreed, having your passport or documents taken away, or being threatened with the loss of your visa or permit. A residence-permit holder who is exploited can get help without automatically losing the permit.
In the most serious cases, exploitation can amount to human trafficking. The National Assistance System for Victims of Human Trafficking offers free and voluntary help, and you can contact them anonymously without any obligation to inform the police.
Warning signs of exploitation
- You are paid much less than agreed, or not paid at all.
- Your passport or documents are held by your employer.
- You are threatened with losing your visa or permit if you complain.
- You are made to work excessive hours or under conditions you did not agree to.
Who to contact
Occupational Safety and Health (Työsuojelu) helpline
National advice on working conditions and employment rights, for employees and employers. You can call anonymously.
- Phone
- 0295 016 620
- Opening hours
- Weekdays 9–15
- Website
- tyosuojelu.fi/en
SAK — Employee Rights Advisory Service for Immigrants
Free advice on your rights as an employee in Finland.
- Phone
- 0800 414 004
- [email protected]
Victim Support Finland (RIKU)
Support for victims of any crime, their loved ones and witnesses. Also runs a special support service for victims of labour exploitation and human trafficking, with advice in your own language.
- Phone
- 116 006
- Opening hours
- Mon–Thu 9–18, Fri 9–16
- Website
- riku.fi/en
Assistance System for Victims of Human Trafficking
Free and voluntary help, including advice and safe housing. You can contact them anonymously, with no obligation to inform the police.
- Phone
- +358 2954 63177
- Opening hours
- 24/7
- Website
- ihmiskauppa.fi/en
Official sources
Authority for working conditions and rights.
How exploitation affects your residence permit.
Practical guidance on workplace problems.
Help for victims of human trafficking.