The Newcomer’s Guide is your ultimate source for information about moving to, living in, and enjoying life in the Helsinki region. It’s a comprehensive resource developed by International House Helsinki. The new 2025 edition is now published!
Our guidebook is divided into four main parts: Moving, Living, Work & Study, and Leisure Time. Whether you need help finding a flat, would like information about where to study Finnish or Swedish, or even want to learn more about Finnish culture, the Newcomer’s Guide is here to help you and will be updated as information and services change. Read the latest edition of the Newcomer’s Guide here.
Below you can go straight to the different sections of the guidebook.
Moving
Are you in the process of planning your move to the Helsinki region? Moving section of the guide introduces you to the Finnish public authority services you will need to visit when you arrive. It also provides you with directions for opening a Finnish bank account and getting a mobile phone subscription. Go straight to Moving section
Living
Are you looking for a flat in Helsinki, Espoo, or Vantaa? Are you interested in learning more about the Finnish education system or wondering which kindergarten your children can attend? Find this and more in the Living section of the guide. Go straight to Living section
Work & Study
One allure of life in Finland is the opportunity to find an excellent work-life balance. In the Work & Study section we discuss Finnish working culture and advise you on finding a job in the Helsinki region. You can also find information about higher education and adult education opportunities. Go straight to Work & Study section
Leisure Time
The beauty of being in the Helsinki region is the balance of a close proximity to nature with abundant cultural activities available at your doorstep. The Leisure Time section provides a wide range of information about how to enjoy your free time in the capital region. Go straight to Leisure Time section
The Newcomer’s Guide was produced with funding from the Finnish Government’s Talent Boost Programme and was funded by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment.