25 Mar 2025
Finland has been ranked the happiest country in the world for six consecutive years. But for newcomers, adjusting to the country’s climate, lifestyle, and costs can be challenging. For Gambians moving to Finland, understanding key aspects of life can make settling in much more manageable.
This guide provides essential information on immigration, jobs, housing, culture, and money management to help make the transition smooth.
Gambian nationals moving to Finland must apply for a residence permit before arriving. The type of permit depends on the purpose of the stay.
The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) handles the application process, which can take up to six months to approve. It is recommended that you start the process early.
Renting a home in Finland can be expensive, especially in major cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku. Here are some options for affordable housing:
Some municipalities offer affordable apartments for low-income residents.
Listings are available on platforms like Vuokraovi.fi and Oikotie.fi.
Renting with roommates helps reduce costs.
Most landlords require a two-month deposit before signing a lease, so budgeting in advance is essential.
Finland’s winter can be a big adjustment for Gambians, who are used to warm weather. Temperatures can drop to -20°C, and daylight hours are limited. Here’s how to stay comfortable:
Invest in warm clothing, including thermal wear, waterproof boots, and insulated jackets.
Homes in Finland have central heating, but energy-efficient habits can help lower costs.
Due to limited sunlight in winter, vitamin D supplements can help maintain health.
Conversely, summers in Finland offer long daylight hours, with the sun setting as late as midnight in some regions.
Finding a job in Finland as a Gambian national depends on skills and qualifications. Some of the best sectors for employment include:
Most jobs require at least basic Finnish skills, so learning the language increases employment opportunities. The Finnish employment service, TE-palvelut.fi, provides job listings and support for job seekers.
Although many Finns speak English, knowing Finnish makes everyday life easier. Here are some free resources to start learning:
Finland has a high cost of living, so effective budgeting is necessary. Here’s how to manage expenses:
Required for receiving salaries and paying bills.
It helps track spending and save money.
Finding affordable ways to send money to Gambia from Finland ensures lower fees.
ACE Money Transfer provides a reliable service for a secure and low-cost money transfer from Finland to Gambia.
Finnish culture is unique and may take time to adjust to. Some significant social customs include:
Finns prefer maintaining distance in public spaces.
Being on time is highly valued in workplaces and social gatherings.
It is a central part of Finnish life, with almost every home having a sauna.
While Finns may seem reserved at first, they are welcoming and helpful once connections are established.
Finland offers one of the best healthcare systems in the world. Here’s how it works:
Available to residents at low costs, funded by taxes.
It is more expensive but provides quicker access to specialists.
It is free for all residents and can be accessed by calling 112.
New residents should arrange health insurance until they qualify for public healthcare.
Getting around Finland is simple. The country has an excellent public transport system that makes commuting easy. Trains and buses connect cities and even remote areas. In Helsinki, trams and the metro offer quick transport.
Cycling is also popular, and many cities have dedicated bike lanes. A monthly transport pass can help cut costs and make daily travel more affordable.
Many Gambians in Finland send money home regularly. To save more, it's essential to choose the correct method. Compare exchange rates before sending, as slight differences can impact how much your family receives. Use trusted services to avoid high fees and delays. Online money transfer options are often cheaper and faster.
ACE Money Transfer offers competitive exchange rates and low fees for affordable online money transfers.
Moving to Finland as a Gambian comes with challenges, but thoughtful planning makes it easier. Finding affordable housing, securing a job, and adapting to the culture can help you settle quickly. Need to send money to Gambia from Finland? Choose a secure and cost-effective service. ACE Money Transfer offers low fees and great exchange rates. Send money fast and safely today!
Gambians need a Schengen visa for short visits (up to 90 days) and a residence permit for longer stays.
You can apply after five years of continuous residence, provided you meet other requirements.
Finland supports entrepreneurs, but business registration and tax compliance must be followed.
You can use a Gambian license for up to one year. After that, you must exchange it for a Finnish license.
Gambian community associations in cities like Helsinki organize events and offer support.
