Working while studying

The instruction belongs to the following themes

By selecting a degree programme you are able to see the general content as well as the possible degree programme-specific content. You do not have to select a degree programme to see the Open University's instructions.

International exchange and degree students are allowed to work during their stay in Finland – with certain restrictions. The restrictions have to do with the nationality (EU/EEA or non-EU/EEA) and the nature of employment.

As an EU/EEA citizen, you have the right to work in Finland without any work permit or restrictions on hours.

Students coming from outside of the EU/EEA countries and with a student residence permit are allowed to work part-time, if the working time comes to an average of 30 hours per week at most. You can adjust the hours on a weekly basis as long as the average is around 30 working hours per week during the academic terms. There are no limitations on working hours in full-time employment during holidays.

It should be pointed out that you cannot count on financing your studies solely by working. Even if the official regulations would allow working, finding a temporary job is often difficult. In addition, at least a working knowledge of the Finnish language in most cases is a must.

For the regulations of study and work, see MIGRI’s website.

Tax­a­tion

If you work in Finland, you have to pay taxes on your income. The taxation policy depends on how long you stay in Finland - less than six months or over six months - and on the type of your employment. International tax agreements sometimes allow tax deductions for students. In most cases, you can get a deduction only if your work in Finland is directly related to your studies at home.

Check the Finnish Tax Administration's website for details.