When you come to Finland as an immigrant, it is important that you integrate. Integration means that you learn and adopt knowledge and skills needed in Finnish society. There are numerous different integration services available that help you in your integration process. Members of your family, who move to Finland with you, may also have the right to receive integration services.
When you have arrived in Finland and registered your right of residence, you will be given information on Finland, your rights and obligations in Finland, and services that will support your integration.
You will be provided information and assistance on integration services by TE Offices or immigration advisors in your municipality of residence. They will provide information on how integration services are organised in your home municipality.
During an initial assessment, it is determined whether an immigrant needs support in their integration.
An initial assessment will be carried out at least for immigrants who are unemployed or receive social assistance. During the assessment the immigrant’s skills, competence and situation will be assessed. Even if you are not unemployed or do not receive social assistance, you can ask for an initial assessment. Ask for an assessment either from the TE Office or your municipality of residence.
If it is determined during the initial assessment that you need support with integration, a personal integration plan will be drawn up for you. The plan is drawn up together with either an integration expert at the TE Office or a social worker at your local social welfare office. Your integration plan will include, for example, information on what training or education you need in order to integrate.
Please note that an integration plan must be drawn up within three years of the time at which you receive your first residence permit or your right of residence has been registered.
On the basis of your integration plan, you will be steered to the integration training that best suits your needs. The training includes either Finnish or Swedish language studies. It usually also includes training on the Finnish customs as well as information about working and education in Finland.
Integration training will provide you with skills for Finnish working life and further education.