Finland continues to face a shortage of healthcare and elderly care workers due to its aging population. As a result, many employers are still recruiting qualified foreign caregivers, practical nurses, healthcare assistants, and elderly care workers to support the country’s growing senior population.
Latest Update for 2026
The demand for caregivers remains strong, especially in elderly care homes, home care services, and assisted living facilities. Finnish employers are increasingly looking for international workers who are willing to learn the Finnish language and adapt to Finland’s healthcare system. Many recruitment programs include language training and relocation support.
Foreign workers who receive a job offer from a Finnish employer can apply for a residence permit based on employment. Healthcare and elderly care remain among the sectors experiencing labor shortages.
Qualifications
The exact requirements depend on the employer, but common qualifications include:
– Caregiver Certificate
– Nursing Assistant Certificate
– Practical Nursing Qualification
– Healthcare-related Diploma or Degree
– Experience in elderly care, home care, disability care, or hospital settings
– Basic English communication skills
– Willingness to study Finnish language
Some employers also accept healthcare students who have completed relevant clinical training.
Requirements
Most employers typically require:
– Valid passport
– Updated CV or resume
– Educational certificates
– Employment certificates or proof of experience
– Police clearance (in some cases)
– Medical fitness certificate
– Employment contract from a Finnish employer
– Residence permit approval before starting work
Applicants should ensure all documents are translated and prepared according to Finnish immigration requirements.
Finnish Language Requirement
Many employers prefer candidates with basic Finnish language skills. While some recruitment programs hire workers before they become fluent, language training is often provided before or after arrival because communication with elderly clients is essential. Finnish language ability significantly improves employment opportunities.
Salary Expectations
Caregivers and practical nurses in Finland can generally earn between €2,200 and €3,500 per month depending on qualifications, experience, employer, location, overtime, and shift allowances. Healthcare professionals working nights, weekends, and holidays may earn additional compensation.
Permanent Residence Pathway
Finland offers a pathway to permanent residence for foreign workers who legally live and work in the country for the required period and meet language and employment requirements.
As of 2026, Finland has implemented stricter permanent residence rules. The standard route generally requires a longer period of residence and proof of integration, including language skills and work history.
Legit Recruitment Agencies and Employers
The following organizations publicly recruit or facilitate recruitment for healthcare and care-sector workers:
“workinfinland.silkroad.fi” (https://reference-url-citation.invalid/8)
Owned by “attendo.fi” (https://reference-url-citation.invalid/9) and has recruited thousands of international healthcare professionals to Finland.
“prohoiva.fi” (https://reference-url-citation.invalid/11)
A Finnish home care and elderly care provider that recruits healthcare professionals and practical nurses.
“dreamteamah.fi” (https://reference-url-citation.invalid/13)
Specializes in healthcare staffing and recruitment for Finland’s care sector.
“staffgate.fi” (https://reference-url-citation.invalid/15)
Provides recruitment services across Finland, including healthcare and care-sector positions.
“norsvikworkers.fi” (https://reference-url-citation.invalid/17)
Works in healthcare recruitment and elderly care workforce training.
“jobnord.fi” (https://reference-url-citation.invalid/19)
An international recruitment company that helps place foreign workers in Finnish employers.
Important Reminder
Avoid agencies that ask for excessive placement fees or guarantee visas. Always verify job offers directly with employers and use official Finnish immigration channels for residence permit applications. Finland follows ethical international recruitment standards, and legitimate employers normally focus on qualifications, language ability, and legal work authorization.
