Seasonal Work Permit for Finland: Step-by-Step Application Guide

Seasonal Work Permit in Finland – Complete Guide

Seasonal jobs in Finland are an excellent way for non-EU workers to earn income, gain international experience, and enjoy the Nordic lifestyle. Industries such as agriculture, forestry, hospitality, and food processing rely heavily on seasonal labour, especially during peak periods. To work legally in these fields, foreign nationals need a Seasonal Work Permit.

This guide explains everything about the application process, salaries, employment rules, benefits, and taxation for seasonal workers in Finland.

What is a Seasonal Work Permit in Finland?

A Seasonal Work Permit allows non-EU/EEA nationals to work in Finland for short-term, seasonal employment between 3 and 9 months. For jobs up to 90 days, a Seasonal Work Visa is issued. Both are processed by the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) and linked to a specific employer.

Who Can Apply?

• Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
• Candidates with a valid job offer from a Finnish employer
• Applicants meeting health and background requirements
• Workers are willing to return home when the permit expires

In-Demand Seasonal Jobs in Finland

• Agriculture workers (berry picking, fruit & vegetable harvesting)
• Greenhouse workers (flowers, cucumbers, tomatoes)
• Forestry and logging assistants
• Hospitality staff (hotels, ski resorts, summer resorts)
• Food production and packaging staff

Required Documents

• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• Employment contract or job offer
• Proof of accommodation in Finland
• Health insurance covering the stay
• Financial means (if requested)
• Passport-sized biometric photos
• Completed application form (online via Enter Finland)

How to Apply for a Seasonal Work Permit in Finland – Step by Step

Applying for a Seasonal Work Permit in Finland is a straightforward process if you follow the official steps. The permit is required for non-EU/EEA nationals who want to work in agriculture, forestry, hospitality, or food processing for a limited period.

Here are the real steps:

Step 1 – Secure a Job Offer

• Before applying, you must have a job contract or an official offer from a Finnish employer.
• Seasonal jobs are commonly found in agriculture (berry picking, harvesting), greenhouses, tourism, and food production.
• Employers must be legally registered in Finland and provide you with a written employment contract.

Where to find jobs:

• TE-palvelut (Employment Service Finland) – tyomarkkinatori.fi
  This is Finland’s official government-run job portal, where seasonal jobs are regularly advertised.

Step 2 – Choose the Right Permit Type

• If your job lasts up to 90 days, → Apply for a Seasonal Work Visa.
• If your job lasts 3–9 months, → Apply for a Seasonal Residence Permit.
• Both applications require supporting documents from your employer.

Step 3 – Prepare the Required Documents

Common documents include:

1. Valid passport (must remain valid during your stay).
2. Employment contract or job offer letter.
3. Proof of accommodation in Finland.
4. Valid health insurance covering your entire stay.
5. Passport-sized biometric photographs.
6. Completed application form (online or paper format).
7. Proof of financial resources (if requested).

Step 4 – Submit the Application

You can apply in two ways:

• Online: Via the Enter Finland portal (enterfinland.fi).
  • Create an account, upload documents, and pay the processing fee.
  • Book an appointment at your nearest Finnish embassy/consulate to verify your identity and submit biometrics.
• On Paper: Submit the completed form and documents at a Finnish embassy/consulate in your home country.

 Your employer may also need to send supporting details directly to the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).

Step 5 – Pay the ApplicVisan Fee

• Seasonal Visa (up to 90 days): Around EUR 100.
• Seasonal Residence Permit (3–9 months): Around EUR 380 online / EUR 480 on paper.
• Fees are paid during the application submission through the online portal or the embassy.

Step 6 – Wait for Processing

• Visa (up to 90 days): Processing time is approximately 2–6 weeks.
• Residence Permit (3–9 months): Takes about 1–3 months.

The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) checks:

• Validity of your contract.
• Whether the work qualifies as seasonal.
• That your wages and working conditions meet Finnish standards.

Step 7 – Receive the Decision

• If approved, you’ll receive:
  • A visa sticker (for up to 90 days).
  • A residence permit card (for 3–9 months).
• You’ll collect this from the Finnish embassy/consulate or Migri service point (depending on your application).

Step 8 – Travel to Finland

• With your visa or residence permit card, you can enter Finland.
• Register with your employer and start your job.
• Your work must strictly follow the terms of your permit (employer, job role, and duration).

Step 9 – During Employment

• Always carry your residence permit card or Visa with you.
• Ensure you have valid health insurance during your entire stay.
• Follow Finnish labour laws (working hours, sick leave, holidays).
• Pay taxes – your employer deducts these directly from your salary.

Step 10 – After the Permit Expires

• You must leave Finland when your seasonal job ends.
• If you wish to return for the next season, you can apply again with a new contract.
• Overstaying may result in fines, deportation, and a ban on Schengen entry.

Average Salaries for Seasonal Workers

Job Type	Hourly Wage (€)	Extra Benefits
Agriculture / Harvesting	€10 – €12	Accommodation, meals sometimes included
Greenhouse Work	€11 – €13	Housing support, transport
Hospitality Jobs	€12 – €15	Meals, lodging, staff discounts
Food Processing	€11 – €13	Shared housing, canteen meals
Forestry Work	€12 – €16	Outdoor allowances, protective gear

When to Apply?

Sector	Peak Season	Best Time to Apply
Agriculture (berries, crops)	June – September	February – April
Greenhouse farming	February – November	November – January
Forestry & logging	May – October	January – March
Hospitality (tourism)	December – March & June – August	3–6 months before the season

Employment Rules & Worker Rights in Finland

Seasonal workers benefit from Finland’s strong labour protections. Here’s what you should know:

Hiring in Finland

Employers must provide a written contract and register seasonal workers according to Finnish labour law.

Employment Contracts in Finland

Contracts must include job title, duration, working hours, salary, benefits, and termination terms. Most seasonal contracts are fixed-term.

Working Hours in Finland

• Standard: 40 hours per week (8 hours/day).
• Overtime is allowed but must be compensated with extra pay or time off.

Holidays in Finland

• Finland has 13–15 paid public holidays annually.
• Seasonal workers may be entitled to holiday pay depending on contract length.

Vacation Days in Finland

• Full-time employees earn 2–2.5 vacation days per working month.
• Short-term seasonal workers may receive monetary compensation instead.

Finland Sick Leave

• Employees are entitled to sick leave with pay from the first day if they fall ill.
• Employers usually cover pay for the first 9 days, after which the Kela (Social Insurance Institution) supports a more extended leave.

Parental Leave in Finland

• Parental leave is available, but for seasonal workers, it depends on contract length and insurance coverage.

Health Insurance in Finland

• Mandatory for all workers, including seasonal employees.
• Employers often assist in arranging valid health insurance.

Finland Supplementary Benefits

Many employers offer:

• Free/subsidised accommodation
• Meals or meal vouchers
• Work clothing and protective gear
• Transportation to job sites

Bonuses in Finland

Seasonal bonuses may be offered, especially in hospitality and tourism jobs, depending on employer policies.

Termination and Severance in Finland

• Seasonal contracts usually end automatically when the term expires.
• If terminated early, both parties must follow Finnish labour law regarding notice periods.

Paying Taxes in Finland

• Seasonal workers pay Finnish income tax based on a progressive tax system.
• Vero issues tax cards—fi (Tax Administration).
• Employers deduct taxes directly from salaries.

Why Work Seasonally in Finland?

• Competitive salaries with benefits
• Strong worker protections under Finnish labour law
• Safe working conditions and reliable contracts
• Opportunity to explore Finnish culture and nature

FAQs – Seasonal Work in Finland

1. What is a Seasonal Work Permit?
It’s a short-term visa/residence permit for non-EU nationals working in seasonal jobs like agriculture or tourism.

2. Do EU citizens need a permit?
No. EU/EEA and Swiss nationals can work freely in Finland.

3. How long is the permit visa
Up to 90 days (Visa) or 3–9 months (residence permit).

4. Can I extend my permit?
Yes, but only within the 9-month maximum per year.

5. What jobs are available?
Berry picking, greenhouse farming, forestry, hospitality, and food processing.

6. Do I need a job offer?
Yes, an official contract from a Finnish employer is mandatory.

7. Who applies for the permit?
The worker applies directly, but the employer provides documents.

8. How long does the process take?
2–6 weeks for a visa, 1–3 months for a residence permit.

9. Do I also need a visa?
Yes, if your job is under 90 days. Longer stays require a residence permit.

10. Where do I apply?
Online via Enter Finland or at a Finnish embassy.

11. Can I bring my family?
Not for short-term seasonal permits.

12. What documents are required?
Passport, job offer, accommodation, health insurance, and photos.

13. Is health insurance required?
Yes, it is compulsory.

14. What salary can I expect?
€10–15 per hour, often with housing and meals included.

15. What happens if I overstay?
You risk fines, deportation, or Schengen entry bans

Final Thoughts

Finland is one of the best destinations for seasonal workers seeking fair pay, legal protection, and cultural exposure. With the right job offer and proper documentation, the Seasonal Work Permit process is straightforward. Workers also enjoy robust employment rights, including regulated working hours, paid holidays, and access to health insurance.

 AtoZ Serwis Plus can assist you in finding seasonal jobs, preparing documents, and applying for your permit with full support.