Top 10 Part-Time Jobs in Finland for Students: Minimum Wage per Hour

Planning to study in Finland, the land of a thousand lakes and dynamic cities?  

While the educational system is top-notch, financing your student life is also important. The good news is that according to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, Finland boasts a continuously decreasing unemployment rate, expected to reach 5.9% in 2024. 

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This indicates a growing demand for workers in various sectors. Finland enjoys a high GDP per capita, similar to many Western European nations. This translates to a high standard of living for its citizens.

In Finland, non-European Union students have the option to apply for an extended residence permit for a maximum of 2 years after completing their studies. This provision aims to assist graduates with their job search or to establish their own businesses.

Beyond the financial benefits, part-time work allows you to experience Finnish culture, develop valuable skills, and potentially build your professional network. 

Curious about minimum wage and what kind of jobs students generally get? Scroll down and get the full details to kickstart your career in Finland.

At a Glance:

Why do you need part-time jobs in Finland?

If you’re a student in Finland, you may be wondering why you need to consider part-time jobs. While the Finnish government provides support to students, the cost of living in Finland can be high. 

A part-time job can help you cover your living expenses, make new connections, and gain valuable work experience. 

Some of the reasons why you may need a part-time job in Finland are:

• Cover living expenses
• Gain work experience
• Build a professional network
• Improve language skills
• Develop transferable skills
• Learn about Finnish culture and work environment
• Boost your CV and future job prospects
• Find potential career opportunities

Minimum Wages for part-time jobs in Finland

Unlike some countries, Finland doesn’t have a nationally mandated minimum wage. This means wages can vary depending on the industry, type of work, and your experience level. 

However, that doesn’t mean you’ll be shortchanged! Generally, student part-time jobs in Finland offer wages between INR 800 (€9) and INR 1100 (€13) per hour, which is quite high as compared to India.  

Evening and weekend shifts often pay slightly higher, and sectors like IT or software engineering can offer even more attractive hourly rates. It is also important to note that certain sectors, such as hospitality and retail, may have lower minimum wage rates for workers under 18 years old.

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Top Part-time jobs in Finland

When it comes to part-time jobs in Finland, there is a wide range of opportunities available for students and non-students alike. Whether you’re looking to gain experience in a specific field or simply want to earn some extra income, there are plenty of options to choose from. 

A person working in Finland will generally earn approximately INR 50L (€ 55,580) per year, and this can range from the lowest average salary of about INR 11L (€ 12,580 EUR) to the highest average salary of INR 2Cr (€ 249,600 EUR). 

The top part-time jobs in Finland include positions in industries such as healthcare, education, hospitality, and retail.

Here is a table of the top 10 part-time jobs in Finland:

Also Read: Part-time Jobs in Canada

Top Industries for Part-time Jobs in Finland

Finland has a thriving economy with several industries that offer part-time jobs to students and non-students alike. Some of the top industries for part-time jobs in Finland include 

• Healthcare
• Education
• Retail
• Hospitality
• IT

The healthcare industry, in particular, is one of the largest employers in Finland, providing ample job opportunities for students pursuing degrees in the field. 

The education industry also offers several part-time jobs, ranging from tutoring to research assistant positions. The retail and hospitality industries also provide numerous job openings, especially during the holiday season and summer months.

Finally, the IT industry is rapidly growing in Finland, providing several part-time job opportunities for students with computer science backgrounds.

Here is a table of the top 10 recruiters and industries in Finland:

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How to find Part-time jobs in Finland

Securing a part-time job in Finland can enhance your student experience. But where do you begin your job search? 

Here are some effective ways to find part-time opportunities in Finland:

• Check online job portals such as Monster, Indeed, and LinkedIn
• Look for job postings on the websites of companies you are interested in working for
• Visit career fairs and networking events to meet potential employers
• Ask your professors or academic advisors for job leads or referrals
• Contact recruitment agencies that specialise in part-time job placements
• Use social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter to find job openings and connect with employers
• Consider doing an internship or volunteering to gain experience and make connections in your field
• Network with other students and professionals in your industry to learn about job opportunities
• Check with your student union or campus job centre for part-time job listings and resources.

Related Article: Part-time Jobs in Australia

Documents Required for Part-time Jobs in Finland

After studying in your dream program, you must be eager to find a part-time job in Finland. But before you start browsing job boards, ensure you have the necessary documentation in order.  

Here’s a quick checklist of documents you’ll likely need as an international student:

• Valid Residence Permit: This is the key document that allows you to work legally in Finland. It should specify that you have permission to work and will likely outline the maximum number of hours you can work per week.
• Student Visa: Double-check the validity of your student visa and ensure it permits part-time work. Some visas might have specific limitations on work authorization.
• Passport:  A valid passport is essential for identification purposes during the job application process.
• CV
• Finnish Social Security Number (SSN): While not always mandatory for part-time jobs, having a Finnish Social Security Number (SSN) can streamline the tax filing process and might be required by some employers.
• Proof of Finnish Bank Account:  Opening a Finnish bank account might be helpful for receiving your part-time wages electronically. While not always required, it can simplify the process.
• Proof of Language Skills: While English proficiency is widespread in Finland, especially in larger cities and tech companies, some employers might ask for proof of language skills, Finnish or English, depending on the specific job requirements. 
• Confirmation of enrollment: Proof of enrollment in a recognised Finnish university or vocational school.
• Employment contract: A contract from the employer detailing the terms of employment, including working hours, wages, and job responsibilities.

Considerations of Part-time Jobs in Finland

As an international student in Finland, embracing part-time work opportunities can be a fantastic way to gain experience and financially support your studies.

However, there are a few restrictions to keep in mind:

• Residence Permit:  You’ll need a valid Finnish residence permit that allows you to work. This permit generally specifies the number of hours you can work per week (usually 30 hours during term time and full-time during holidays).
• Employer Knowledge:  Ensure your potential employer is aware of your student status and visa limitations regarding work hours.
• Tax Implications:  You may be liable to pay taxes on your part-time earnings. The Finnish Tax Administration provides resources for international students.
• Union Membership:  While not mandatory, some sectors in Finland have strong trade unions. Union membership might come with additional fees or regulations depending on the specific industry.
• Finnish Language Skills:  While English proficiency is common in Finland, basic Finnish language skills can be advantageous when applying for jobs, especially outside major cities or in customer-facing roles. Employers may view Finnish language skills as a positive indicator of communication and integration within the workplace.

Quick Tips to Get Part-time Jobs in Finland

Now after getting detailed information regarding part-time jobs in Finland, you may be wondering how to find a part-time job that fits your schedule and interests with out any obstacles. 

With a bit of effort and some insider tips, you can increase your chances of securing a job that not only helps you earn some extra income but also enhances your skills and builds your professional network. 

Here are some quick tips to help you find part-time jobs:

• Start your job search early, preferably before the start of the academic year.
• Check university career portals and job boards for openings 
• Attend job fairs and networking events to connect with potential employers
• Create a strong resume and cover letter highlighting your skills and experience 
• Consider applying for part-time jobs in industries such as healthcare, education, hospitality, retail, and IT 
• Be open to flexible work arrangements, such as evening and weekend shifts 
• Build your professional network by connecting with alumni and joining student organizations 
• Gel up with Indian students to explore job opportunities and get insider tips 

Remember, finding a part-time job in Finland may require some effort and persistence, but the benefits are worth it. 

Final Thoughts

If you are an international student planning to study in Finland, part-time jobs can be an excellent way to support yourself financially, gain valuable work experience, and immerse yourself in Finnish culture. 

With a high standard of living and a thriving economy, Finland offers a range of opportunities in various industries, including healthcare, education, retail, hospitality, and IT. While minimum wages may vary, student part-time jobs in Finland generally offer competitive pay rates, making it a great option to explore. 

With the help of Leapscholar, you can also get guidance on studying abroad and IELTS preparation, ensuring you have a smooth transition to the Finnish way of life. So, what are you waiting for? Discover the amazing opportunities that part-time jobs in Finland have to offer and make the most of your study abroad experience.

And if you’re considering other options like the USA, UK, Canada and Australia, we’ve got you covered, too. Schedule a free consultation with our experts today for personalised guidance and advice.

Related Article: Scholarships in Finland for International Students

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