Settling in
“Feels like home”
The settling-in services provided by International House Rauma are available to anyone planning to move to Rauma or already living here, regardless of their reason for coming. We support you in the early stages of everyday life and provide information about living, working, studying and leisure opportunities in Rauma.
You can explore these topics further on our website or book a free appointment, where our advisors will review your situation and needs with you personally.
Moving to Finland
Are you considering moving to Finland? There are many things it is helpful to know in advance when planning your move. You can find the key points in a checklist for people moving to Finland.
On the Visit Rauma website, you can get a glimpse of what Rauma has to offer – and perhaps even find yourself thinking that this could be your new home.
Check your right to stay in Finland
The Finnish Immigration Service is the authority responsible for decisions related to immigration, asylum, refugee status and citizenship in Finland. On the Migri.fi website, you can find instructions on how to apply for a permit, extend it and learn about the requirements for different types of permits.
You can also always contact International House Rauma for guidance and advice regarding your residence permit matters. Please note, however, that we do not make decisions on residence permits.
Document legalisation
It is recommended to have your key documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, translated and legalised already in your country of origin. Finnish authorities accept documents in Finnish, Swedish or English. For more information about document legalisation, please visit the websites of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland and the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV).
Register your residence in Rauma
Registering with the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV) confirms your personal details, family relationships, place of residence and your eligibility for public services in Finland. Please remember to provide the required documents that verify your family relationships when registering. If you need assistance with these matters, you can contact International House Rauma.
Rauma offers a range of services to support the wellbeing and everyday life of new residents. Read more here.
Submit a change of address
Remember to submit a change of address to Posti and the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV). Providing your correct address ensures that you receive your mail and can access local services without any issues. Always submit a change of address whenever your address changes, and remember to notify DVV also if you move away from Finland.
Opening a bank account and strong authentication
A Finnish bank account and strong electronic identification (online banking credentials) make everyday life easier and speed up dealing with authorities.
Taxation
In Finland, taxation is based on an individual tax card and your income. Your rights and obligations related to taxation may vary depending on factors such as the length of your stay and your source of income. It is important to make sure your tax matters are in order from the start.
A tax card is required for each job. It allows your employer to withhold taxes at the correct rate from your first salary. For more information, visit vero.fi.
Check your eligibility for Finnish social security
Social security determines your right to access public services and receive financial support in different life situations. Public services refer, for example, to healthcare and social services, while benefits refer to social security payments provided by Kela. Eligibility for social security is assessed by Kela based on your place of residence, life situation and length of stay in Finland.
Please note that your eligibility for social security may depend on your residence permit or the registration of your right of residence. Some residence permits grant access to Kela benefits immediately, while others may limit eligibility or require a minimum period of residence in Finland. For more information, visit kela.fi.
Useful links and services
Do you have a question or need some guidance?
Visit the International House Rauma service point ( Valtakatu 2A). We offer walk-in service on Tuesdays from 9:00 to 15:00, and appointments on Wednesdays and Thursdays. You will receive free guidance and advice in multiple languages.