Welcome to Helsinki – tips for newcomers

So glad you have joined us, we know you have much to offer!

On this page

Helsinki center city line seen from above during the summer.
Photo: Kari Ylitalo

About our city

Helsinki is the capital of Finland, the happiest country in the world for many years running. Finland is a Nordic welfare state, so people here assume a shared public responsibility for the economic and social wellbeing of everyone. This brings freedom and peace of mind, especially in the face of uncertainty.

Helsinki is a green city that has been fundamentally shaped by its location on the Baltic Sea. It is part of the largest urban area in Finland and home to around 650,000 people. More than 1.5 million inhabitants live in the larger metropolitan area, which includes the cities of Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa and Kauniainen. 

The metropolitan area is located in the greater Helsinki region, which is in turn situated in the southern Finnish province of Uusimaa. Finland is a member of the European Union (EU), and uses the euro as its currency. 

A map of Helsinki metropolitan area.
A map of Helsinki and the metropolitan area.

Helsinki is one of the northernmost capitals in the world. Despite this fact, its climate is surprisingly temperate. It rarely gets too cold, and in the summer, the average temperature is a pleasant 20°C (70°F) or so. This is why most of the city’s residents agree that the Helsinki summer climate is just right for spending the long bright days outdoors. 

Because of its northern location, the amount of daylight hours in Helsinki changes greatly over the year. In the winter, there is very little sunshine, but when the summer peaks, the sun shines for close to nineteen hours each day. 

My Helsinki: Seasonal Helsinki

A woman bicycling during a sunset in Telakkaranta, Helsinki.
Photo: Jussi Hellsten

Top ten reasons to live in Helsinki

  1. A good work-life balance is encouraged in every job

  2. Affordable childcare is provided by a network of qualified professionals

  3. Everyone receives a world-class education

  4. State-subsidised healthcare is available for all permanent residents

  5. Most municipal services are a short walk from your front door

  6. Helsinki streets are always clean and safe

  7. The capital’s innovative startup and tech scene keeps things fresh

  8. Opportunities for exercise and sport can be found around every corner

  9. Buses, trains and trams run on schedule to all parts of the city

  10. A nation of nature lovers keeps its forests and waterways clean

Girls sitting by the sea, Helsinki Cathedral on the background.
Photo: Oona Aittokoski, Boksi.

Things to consider when moving to Helsinki from abroad

International House Helsinki offers general information and guidance on issues such as residence permits, studying Finnish or Swedish, housing, day care, education and health care services. 

You can also get assistance with how to correctly fill out the forms or understand the decisions and procedures of different public authorities.

General information and guidace on IHH.fi website

Do you have questions on city services or immigration related matters? Our multilingual staff can answer all of your questions.

Go to Helsinki-info pages