The same terms and conditions of work and occupational safety and health requirements apply to both foreign and Finnish workers.

This page contains short information on central matters concerning employment relationships. Further information is available on the subpages and the links on the right.

Advice
Trade unions and employers’ organisations give their members advice in matters concerning employment relationships. Those who are not organized can get information from the Occupational Safety and Health Authorities. Furthermore, it is good to familiarize oneself with the collective agreement that binds the employer.

Where to get legal aid?
Citizens can get a legal aid counsel to handle legal matters. Depending on the means of the applicant, the legal aid is either free of charge or the applicant co-pays for it. The legal aid covers all sorts of legal matters. In court proceedings, legal aid is provided by public legal aid attorneys, Advocates and other lawyers. In other matters, legal aid is provided by public legal aid attorneys who work at the Public Legal Aid Offices. The Public Legal Aid Offices are usually located in the same places as the District Courts. Legal aid may not be granted to companies or associations.

Form of employment contract
The employment contract can be worded freely. An oral, written and electronic contract are all equally valid. It is recommended that the employment contract is prepared in the written form. An employment contract may either be valid indefinitely or concluded for a fixed term.

Trial period
While concluding an employment contract, the employer and the employee can agree upon a trial period that may not last longer than four months. During this trial period, either party may terminate the employment contract, but not without appropriate grounds.

Written information on principal terms of work
In case the terms and conditions of work are not determined in an employment contract, it is the employer's duty to give the employee written information on the principal terms and conditions of work.

Same working conditions for Finnish people and foreigners
The same terms and conditions of work and occupational safety and health requirements apply to foreign and Finnish workers. The employer shall give all employees sufficient training and guidance in their tasks.
There are separate provisions concerning the minimum terms and conditions of work for workers posted in Finland.