Integration services help you start your new life in Finland
The City of Helsinki’s Integration Services help you get started. They:
- provide you with important information about Finland
- match you with helpful services, and
- help you build a good life in Finland.
Integration Services are organised by Helsinki Employment Services.
Read the instructions and come visit us!
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Register as a client of Integration Services
After you have registered as a resident of Helsinki, please register as a client of the city’s Integration Services right away.
In Integration Services, we talk with you about learning Finnish or Swedish, studying, or looking for a job.
You can ask for an interpreter to join the conversation. Please request to use an interpreter when you first register as a client of Integration Services. You can also ask for an interpreter later, at any time you contact Integration Services.
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Attend an interview
On your first visit to the Integration Services, you talk with one of our specialists. Together you will discuss what you have studied, the kind of work you have done, and what you want to do now that you have moved to Finland.
After the interview, you make an integration plan together with the specialist. The integration plan is your personal plan for how you will learn the language, find a place to study or work, and get support for your daily life. The best courses for you are chosen for the plan.
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Join integration courses
When you have your integration plan, take part in the courses in the plan you agreed on with the specialist. The courses teach you important information and skills that will help you live successfully in Finnish society. The courses you agreed on with the specialist are free.
Examples of courses:
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Use your new knowledge and skills
When you have completed the integration courses, you will know a lot about the Finnish culture and languages. You will understand how Finnish society works and what services Helsinki offers you. After you have learned to speak Finnish or Swedish well and have lived here for several years, you can apply for Finnish citizenship.
Learn more about Finnish citizenship (Link leads to external service)
Are you already working or studying?
If you already have a job or study place as an international student, the city’s integration services are not meant for you. However, we provide other services that can help you integrate.
Learn more about our services for people who are working or studying
Are you having problems with integration?
The city’s Special Services for Immigrants help if you need more support for your integration or urgent social services in Helsinki. You do not need to state your name when you visit. You can ask for an interpreter to join the conversation when you visit the services.