Moving to Finland

Whether you are moving to the small historical town of Turku or the country's capital of Helsinki, Britannia Simpson's of Sussex can offer a full door to door service which is quick and reliable. As a member of Britannia Movers International, the largest international moving company in the UK and with special expertise in moving to Finland, Norway, and Denmark, we can tailor-make the move to fit your individual needs. So, do not hesitate to contact Simpson's of Sussex.

Importing Household Goods to Finland

• As Finland is a full member of the EU, you can import your goods free of taxes and other restrictions.
• Certain restrictions apply if you are moving from a non-EU country, and you may have to pay customs duty or Finnish VAT. If you have been living outside the EU for more than 12 months, a relief may be granted.

Documentation Needed for Moving to Finland

• If you are moving from within the EU, you will only need your passport and a detailed inventory of your goods.
• If you are moving to Finland from outside the EU, you will also need a completed customs declaration form.

Moving to Finland With Pets

Animal import regulation vary according to species. Simpson's of Sussex can recommend a specialist animal shipper. The number of pets that can be imported is currently restricted to five.

Importing Motor Vehicles to Finland

Motor vehicles can be imported to Finland, but certain regulations and taxes might apply. For more information, contact the Finnish Customs.

About Finland

Finland is a Nordic country situated in Northern Europe. It is the eighth largest country in Europe, while also being the most sparsely populated in the European Union. The country is a parliamentary republic, with a central government and over 300 local municipalities. The country joined the EU in 1995, and the eurozone since the beginning and is a member of the OECD, and the United Nation as well.

Finland has an extensive welfare state, it is ranked as one of the most stable countries in the world and the general quality of life is very good. Moreover, the education & health system, and the country's economic dynamism are often rated among the best in the world.

Finland's Location and Population

Finland is situated in Northern Europe, and is bordered by Sweden on the west, Russia on the east, Norway on the north and Estonia to its south, across the Gulf of Finland. The capital, Helsinki is located in the south and has over 1 million inhabitants. Finland has a population of 5.3 million, most of the people concentrated in the southern, urbanised areas.

Finland's Climate

Finland has a semi continental climate. Winters are usually long, with snow covering the ground from December to April. The coldest winter temperature can reach -20C even in the southern parts, however the summer can be hot, with the warmest day in July and August reaching 30C. Summers in the north are very short, and there are 6-7 months of winter.

Living in Finland

With a strong social security system, low unemployment rates, high levels of healthcare and gender equality, Finland ranks among the best in the world for quality of life. Finland is also relatively open and Finnish people welcome foreigners. If you don't mind the long and cold winters and relatively short summers, Finland is a good destination.

Important Facts About Moving To And Living In Finland

• If you are an EU citizen, the local police will register your right of residence.
• If you are not an EU citizen, a residence permit application must be filed with the Finnish Embassy in the origin country.
• EU citizens, and citizens of Iceland, Lichtenstein and Norway can work freely in Finland for up to three months. After this initial period, they must register, but they still won't need a special residence permit.
• The native language in Finland is Finnish, which belong to the Finno-Ugric language family, and is not closely related to most other languages in Europe.
• Living costs in Finland are not as high as in some other Nordic countries
• To find out more information about moving to Finland, visit www.expat-finland.com.

What next?

• Read our tips for living in Finland
• Are you planning to move to Denmark or Norway?
• Need more information about moving to Europe?