Skip to content

Study in Finland

Working in Finland as a student, and after you graduate

Last verified

Finland lets student permit holders work, with an hour limit averaged across the year. Keep your work records so you can show you stayed within it.

Working while you study

You may do paid work for a maximum of 30 hours a week on average over the year. Some weeks can go over 30 hours as long as your average stays within the limit.

  • Practical training or diploma work that is part of your degree is the exception: it is not restricted in the same way.
  • Since 15 April 2022, students can no longer work without restrictions during holidays or when the school offers no teaching.

After you graduate

Graduates who have not yet found a job can get a residence permit to look for work or start a business.

  • Length: a maximum of two years, which you can take in up to three parts. Each part lasts at least six months, and the last part must end within three years of the first part's start.
  • When to apply: right after you graduate, or no later than five years after. If you are abroad, you apply for it as a first residence permit. An extension must be applied for before the current permit expires.
  • If you are waiting for your certificate: after passing all courses you can apply for the work or job-seeking permit and send the certificate later.
  • Money: you need enough funds to live in Finland. Migri puts this at at least €560 a month for the first year. A Finnish bank deposit is the simplest proof.

Official sources

Common questions

How many hours can I work in Finland as a student?
A maximum of 30 hours a week on average over the year. Some weeks can exceed 30.
Do internships and thesis work count?
Practical training or diploma work that is part of your degree is not limited in the same way.
Can I work without limits during holidays?
No. Since 15 April 2022, students can no longer work without restrictions during holidays or when the school has no teaching.
How long can I stay after graduating to find work?
Up to two years, in up to three parts of at least six months each. You can apply right after graduating, or up to five years after.

More guides for this country

Finland

Study in Finland from Nepal

Priority processing for students, 30 hours of work a week, and 2 years to look for work after you graduate.

Finland

Cost of studying

Visa fee, money to show and other costs, in one table.

Finland

Dependant visa

Bringing your spouse or children.

Finland

Intakes

When courses start and when to apply.

Finland

Scholarships

Scholarships open to Nepali students.

Finland

Student visa

Documents, steps and rules for your visa or permit application.

Compare other countries

Free checklist

Finland student visa document checklist

A tick-off list of every document, built from the official rules. Free to read online, with a printable PDF.

Open the checklist

Official sources used on this page