Working in Finland

Finnish labour market system

The cornerstones of the Finnish labour market system are widespread organisation of employees and employers, a strong tradition of bargaining and co-operation, and national incomes policy settlements agreed between the government and both sides of industry. These settlements not only cover pay rises, but also such matters as taxation and social reform.

Employment legislation and collective agreements

As a rule, provisions regarding pay, working time, employment protection and health and safety rules at work are applied in the same manner on all those working in Finland.

Also, employers are obliged to pay pension, unemployment security, social security and accident insurance contributions for both Finnish and foreign employees.

Most sectors have a valid collective agreement between the trade unions and the employers’ organisations that specifies the determination of pay and other terms and conditions of employment.

In addition to employment legislation and collective agreements, employees and  employers can have mutual agreements in which the terms and conditions
of employment are set more specifically than in the general provisions.