Finland, known for its excellent healthcare system and aging population, is actively recruiting caregivers from abroad to support its growing elderly and special needs population. In 2025, caregiver jobs in Finland are among the most sought-after opportunities for non-EU workers, thanks to free training, visa sponsorship, paid relocation, and often, pathways to permanent residence.
If you’re compassionate, hardworking, and interested in building a healthcare career in Europe, this guide will show you everything you need to know about applying for caregiver jobs in Finland—with no nursing degree required.
Why Finland Needs Foreign Caregivers
Finland is facing a demographic shift. By 2030, over 25% of the population will be aged 65 and older. This has created an urgent need for caregivers in:
- Nursing homes
- Assisted living facilities
- Private homes
- Rehabilitation centers
Domestic labor supply isn’t enough to meet demand, and Finnish employers are increasingly turning to international recruitment. In response, the government has introduced fast-track visa programs, language training, and integration support to attract foreign care workers.
What Is a Caregiver in Finland?
A caregiver (or “hoiva-avustaja” in Finnish) is someone who provides non-medical support to elderly, disabled, or recovering individuals. This includes:
- Assisting with daily tasks (bathing, dressing, feeding)
- Supporting mobility (wheelchair transfers, walking)
- Providing companionship
- Administering basic medications (after training)
- Helping with household chores (laundry, cleaning)
- Monitoring health and reporting issues to nurses
Unlike registered nurses, caregivers are not required to hold medical degrees—making it an excellent entry-level role for foreigners.
Job Roles and Work Settings
1. Elderly Care Assistants
- Work in retirement homes or nursing homes
- Help patients with hygiene, dressing, feeding
- Support mental well-being and conversation
2. Home-Based Caregivers
- Live-in or daytime caregivers for private clients
- Assist with meals, companionship, errands
- Coordinate with family members or nurses
3. Disability Support Workers
- Work with children or adults with physical/mental disabilities
- Assist in daily life, therapy activities, and community engagement
4. Hospital Assistant Roles
- Support nurses with non-critical patient care
- Transport patients, prepare rooms, manage supplies
Who Can Apply?
Caregiver jobs in Finland are open to non-EU nationals, including citizens of:
- Nigeria
- Ghana
- Kenya
- India
- Bangladesh
- Nepal
- Philippines
- Sri Lanka
- Pakistan
- South Africa
Basic Requirements:
- High school certificate or equivalent
- Good physical and mental health
- Clean criminal record
- Compassion and patience
- Basic English skills (A2 or better)
- Willingness to learn Finnish (sponsored training provided)
Experience in elderly care, nursing assistant, or home help is an advantage but not mandatory.
Salary Expectations in 2025
Caregiver salaries in Finland vary by location and employer type.
- Entry-Level Caregiver: €1,900 – €2,300/month
- Experienced Caregiver: €2,400 – €2,800/month
- Live-in Caregiver (with accommodation): €1,600 – €2,000/month
Additional compensation may include:
- Overtime pay
- Weekend/night shift bonuses
- Paid holidays (4–5 weeks/year)
Cost of living is balanced by benefits like free or low-cost housing, meals, and healthcare.
Free Training Programs
One of the most attractive parts of Finland’s caregiver recruitment strategy is government-supported training.
Program Highlights:
- Finnish language training (A2–B1 level)
- Caregiver certification course (4–6 months)
- Internships in care facilities during training
- Monthly stipend during training (in some cases)
- Free textbooks and course materials
Training is provided either in your home country (via Finnish partner institutes) or after arrival in Finland.
Upon completion, you receive a recognized qualification and are placed into full-time work.
Visa Sponsorship and Residence Permit
Finland has a dedicated residence permit for care workers, which allows long-term legal stay and family reunification.
Required Documents:
- Passport
- Signed employment contract from Finnish employer
- Health examination certificate
- Certificate of language proficiency (if training completed)
- Police clearance certificate
- Proof of accommodation (arranged by employer)
Visa processing usually takes 30–60 days after submission.
Permit Details:
- Valid for up to 2 years
- Renewable and convertible to permanent residence
- Eligible for family reunification after 1 year of work
Employers and training agencies usually help with paperwork, appointments, and embassy processes.
Where to Find Caregiver Jobs with Sponsorship
Trusted Job Portals:
- TE-palvelut (te-palvelut.fi) – Finnish government job board
- Work in Finland (workinfinland.fi)
- LinkedIn Jobs – Search “caregiver Finland visa”
- Jobly.fi
- Monster.fi
International Recruitment Partners:
- Silta-Valmennusyhdistys – partners with African and Asian countries
- Medipower Finland
- Barona Care
- Opteam
- Luona Oy
- Esperi Care
Apply only to licensed recruitment agencies and avoid agents requesting large upfront fees.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Search and Apply
Find caregiver openings with sponsorship. Check job duties and training availability. - Submit Resume and Motivation Letter
Highlight your caregiving experience, soft skills, and interest in working in Finland. - Attend Interview
Interviews are usually online. Expect questions about empathy, stress handling, and cultural adjustment. - Language and Training Enrollment
Once accepted, you’ll enroll in a Finnish-sponsored training course—online or in-person. - Job Placement and Visa Documents
Upon completing training, you receive a job contract and residence permit documents. - Visa Application
Submit your application to the Finnish embassy. Attend biometrics and health checks. - Relocate and Begin Work
Your employer may help with flight booking, airport pickup, and onboarding.
Benefits of Caregiver Jobs in Finland
- No nursing degree required
- Visa sponsorship and relocation support
- Free language and skill training
- Competitive salary and labor protection
- Path to permanent residency
- Safe, peaceful, and inclusive society
- Free healthcare and social security access
Life in Finland as a Caregiver
- Language: While Finnish is the national language, English is widely spoken in healthcare settings.
- Culture: Finland is respectful, private, and work-oriented.
- Weather: Cold winters—employers provide warm clothing and gear.
- Community: Growing African and Asian expatriate population, especially in Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku.
- Transportation: Efficient public transport and clean cities.
Long-Term Opportunities
After 5 years of continuous stay:
- Apply for permanent residence
- Bring family to Finland under family reunification
- Access subsidized education for your children
- Transition into licensed practical nurse (LPN) or registered nurse roles
Tips for Success
- Show patience, empathy, and responsibility
- Be willing to learn Finnish—it improves promotion chances
- Build strong relationships with colleagues and supervisors
- Maintain professional appearance and hygiene
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying through unverified agents
- Skipping language training (employers prioritize those with language basics)
- Submitting incomplete visa documents
- Expecting hospital-level salaries (these are support roles)
