Remote Work in Finland – With the Help of Employer of Record (EoR)

Remote work has become a prominent part of modern life, and Finland is no exception. For many international employees, the opportunity to work from the beautiful, peaceful setting of Finland while being employed by a company based elsewhere is both exciting and challenging. In this blog post, we'll explore what it's like to work remotely in Finland when your employer has no local office or presence in the country, as well as key considerations to keep in mind.

Working in Finland for a Foreign Employer

Finland is known for its high quality of life, strong work-life balance, and a deep connection to nature. These characteristics make it an attractive place for remote workers. However, working for a foreign employer from Finland presents some unique challenges, from navigating bureaucracy to establishing work routines in a new cultural environment. With employer of record (EoR) services this all is more easier.

For example, it's essential to understand the legal aspects of working remotely in Finland. As a remote worker, you will need to be aware of local tax requirements. Generally, if you reside in Finland for more than six months, you are considered a tax resident, meaning you need to pay income taxes in Finland even if your employer is located elsewhere. The Finnish tax system can be complex, and it is advisable to consult a tax advisor to ensure compliance.

Remote workers must address issues related to social security. If you are a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you may be eligible to maintain your home country’s social security while working in Finland under certain conditions. Otherwise, you may need to contribute to the Finnish social security system, which grants access to healthcare and other benefits. Understanding these arrangements is crucial to avoid gaps in coverage.

Cultural Considerations and Work-Life Balance

One of the aspects that foreign remote workers often appreciate about Finland is the emphasis on work-life balance. Finnish culture values time off and the importance of maintaining a healthy separation between work and personal life. If your employer is from a country with a more demanding or fast-paced work culture, you might need to set clear boundaries to align with the Finnish way of working.

Another key cultural aspect to consider is the concept of "sisu," which refers to the Finnish spirit of resilience and determination. It’s important to recognize that the Finnish approach to work is often very pragmatic and solution-oriented, with less emphasis on hierarchy. Direct communication is valued, so don't be surprised if feedback from colleagues or clients is straightforward. Embracing these cultural differences can help bridge the gap between you and your international employer.

The Finnish communication style is very direct and honest; small talk is not common, which may feel a bit blunt to foreigners. In Teams meetings, there’s no unnecessary chitchat – people go straight to the point. Finns are precise and punctual, and agreements are upheld. If you're familiar with Finnish F1 driver Kimi Räikkönen, you may understand what this is about.

Setting Up Your Remote Workspace

When it comes to remote work, your environment plays a huge role in your productivity and well-being. Finland is an excellent country for remote work due to its reliable infrastructure—high-speed internet is widely available, even in more rural areas.

Coworking spaces are also an option if you miss the social aspect of work. Cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku have well-developed coworking facilities where you can network and meet other remote workers, both locals and expatriates. This can help combat the sense of isolation that sometimes accompanies remote work, especially when your employer is located far away.

Building Connections and Staying Engaged

Working for a foreign company while living in Finland can sometimes feel isolating, as you may lack the direct social connections that come from working in a local office. To counter this, it's important to actively seek out opportunities for networking and community engagement. Finland has a variety of social clubs, expat groups, and professional associations that can help you integrate into the local culture and meet like-minded people. Engaging in these activities can make a significant difference in your overall experience.

Finally, remember to stay connected with your employer and colleagues abroad. Maintaining good communication is essential when working across borders and time zones. Set up regular check-ins and try to be proactive in sharing updates about your work. Leveraging tools like video calls, chat platforms, and collaboration software will help you stay visible and engaged with your team.

Finns are very active in sports during their free time, and Finland has many clubs and associations worth exploring and getting involved in.

Conclusion

Remote work in Finland offers many benefits, from the stunning natural environment to the country's emphasis on work-life balance. However, navigating the legal, cultural, and social aspects of working for a foreign employer can be challenging. By understanding tax and social security requirements, adapting to Finnish work culture, and actively seeking out community and connection, you can make the most of your remote work experience in Finland. Employers of Record (EOR) offer an alternative to establishing legal business entities. Instead of setting up your own entity to hire employees in new countries, you can onboard talent directly through an EOR.

At Econia, we specialize in helping companies and employees who are starting a business in Finland. As a full-house business service company, we offer international companies various services under the same roof. Business setup consultation, Financial administration, Local representation, Staffing and recruitment and Advisory services are our main services. Our rock-solid experience in international projects and knowledge of local legislation will aid you to fulfill all your obligations under Finnish law.

Whether you're drawn by Finland's peaceful surroundings or its progressive work culture, working remotely from this Nordic country can be incredibly rewarding with the right preparation, mindset and a local trusted partner.