10 Apr 2025
Moving to Helsinki, Finland, as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) offers exciting opportunities but challenges. As the country’s capital and economic hub, Helsinki is home to various industries that welcome foreign workers. Many options are available, whether you’re a skilled professional or looking for entry-level jobs. This guide will help you explore the best job opportunities, understand the work permit process, and learn how to settle in Helsinki so you can send money to Philippines from Finland with ease.
Helsinki is Finland’s most significant economic center, with a booming job market driven by industries like healthcare, IT, construction, and the service sector. Many international companies operate here, creating demand for skilled and unskilled workers. As an OFW, you can find a job that matches your experience and qualifications while taking advantage of Finland’s strong labor rights and social benefits.
Finland’s aging population has increased the demand for healthcare professionals, particularly nurses and caregivers. This industry offers stable employment and good salaries if you have medical training or caregiving experience. To work in healthcare, you may need to get your credentials recognized by Finnish authorities and complete language requirements. Many OFWs work in hospitals, elderly care facilities, and private caregiving services.
Helsinki has a thriving service industry that constantly needs workers. If you have experience in hospitality, retail, or cleaning, you can find jobs as a restaurant crew member, hotel staff, or store attendant. Many Filipinos start their careers in the service industry before transitioning to higher-paying roles. These jobs often have flexible shifts, allowing you to balance work with other commitments and make a regular money transfer from Finland to Philippines to support your family.
For OFWs with technical expertise, Helsinki is an emerging IT and digital services hub. Companies seek software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity experts, and digital marketers. If you have the skills and experience, this field offers high salaries and career growth opportunities. Many IT professionals working in Finland also benefit from remote work flexibility, which helps them manage their work-life balance.
Helsinki’s infrastructure development has created job openings in construction and manual labor. If you have experience in carpentry, welding, or general construction work, you can find stable employment in Finland’s construction industry. These jobs often come with competitive wages and long-term contracts, making it easier to send money online to Philippines from Finland regularly and secure financial stability.
Securing a job in Helsinki as an OFW involves understanding the necessary work permits and navigating the Finnish job market. From residence permit applications to utilizing the best job search platforms, this guide provides essential steps to help you embark on your career journey in Finland.
To work in Finland, you need a valid residence permit. The type of permit depends on your job category. The most common work permits for OFWs include:
First, you must secure a job offer, as your employer will be involved in your visa application. Once your permit is approved, you can legally work and start making a money transfer to the Philippines from Finland.
Finding a job in Helsinki requires the right approach. Here are some of the best job portals and agencies to help you:
While English is widely spoken in Helsinki, learning Finnish can give you a competitive edge in the job market. Many employers prefer bilingual employees, especially in healthcare and customer service roles.
Building a network is also crucial. Attend local job fairs, join Facebook groups for Filipinos in Finland, and connect with fellow OFWs to get job leads and support. Networking can help you land better opportunities and settle in faster.
Before accepting a job in Helsinki, it’s essential to consider the cost of living. Helsinki is one of Europe’s more expensive cities, so budgeting is crucial.
To manage expenses effectively, consider shared accommodations and using public transport instead of taxis.
Helsinki provides diverse job opportunities for OFWs, from healthcare and IT to the service and construction industries. Moving to a new country comes with challenges, but proper planning, networking, and language skills can help you succeed. By securing a stable job, you can earn well and make an online money transfer from Finland to Philippines regularly to support your loved ones. If you’re considering working in Helsinki, start your job search today and take the first step toward financial stability and career growth.
Not necessarily. Many jobs, especially in IT and international companies, require only English. However, learning Finnish can improve healthcare and customer service job prospects.
For job listings, you can use TE Services, Duunitori, and Oikotie Työpaikat. Recruitment agencies like Barona and Eilakaisla also help foreign workers find employment.
Living costs vary, but rent in the city center ranges from €800-€1,200 per month. Public transport costs about €60 monthly, and groceries average €200-€300 monthly.
Most OFWs need a Residence Permit for an Employed Person (TTOL) or a Specialist Permit for highly skilled jobs like IT and engineering.
You can use ACE Money Transfer for fast, secure, and affordable online transfers to the Philippines, ensuring your family receives timely funds.
