Employment rights in Finland
As an employee in Finland, you are protected by law and entitled to fair treatment at work. Here's a clear overview of your core rights.
Basic rights
- Written employment contract
- Minimum wage (if defined by collective agreement)
- Maximum working hours (usually 7.5–8 hours/day)
- Daily and weekly rest periods
- Breaks during the workday
Health and safety
- Safe and healthy working environment
- Occupational healthcare provided by employer
- Accident insurance coverage
- Health monitoring when required by the job
Leave entitlements
- Annual leave: 2 days per month, rising to 2.5 days per month once employment has lasted a year by 31 March
- Sick pay: full pay for the day of illness and the next 9 working days if employed at least one month, then Kela sickness allowance (collective agreements may extend this)
- Parental leave (for both parents)
- Family leave and childcare leave
- Study leave (statutory right after one year of employment with the same employer)
Termination rights
- Advance notice period based on length of employment
- Severance pay if required by agreement or law
- Protection against unfair dismissal
- Right to receive a written explanation for dismissal
Additional protections
- Equal treatment regardless of nationality, gender, or background
- Right to join or not join a trade union
- Access to legal aid and workplace safety authorities
Need help?
If you believe your employment rights have been violated, you can seek help from:
- Occupational safety and health administration
- Trade union representatives
- Legal aid services
- Employee organizations