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Healthcare in Finland
Healthcare in Finland starts with the right insurance or registration. For immediate danger call 112; for non-urgent care use the national or local health service listed below.
Healthcare offices in Finland
Kela — Social Insurance Institution: Health, family, unemployment benefits. Phone: 020 692 200. Terveyskeskus (municipal health centre): Primary healthcare.
How to get covered
Register with Kela: After 4 months of intended stay, you become entitled to Kela benefits. Fill Y77 — Attach residence permit, work contract or income proof. Kela decision in ~4 weeks. Kela card — Reimburses part of private care + medicines. Public healthcare is separate (municipal). Public healthcare: Access at your terveyskeskus once you have a municipality (kotikunta). Register kotikunta — At DVV once you plan to stay >1 year. GP visit fee — €20 first visit/year; free for children and pregnant.
Emergency and urgent care
Emergency number: 112. Medical help: 116 117. Police: 112. Use emergency care for serious or life-threatening situations; for routine problems, start with a GP or local clinic.
Prescriptions, interpreters and costs
Ask for an interpreter when booking if you are not confident in Finnish / Swedish. Bring ID, residence documents and insurance proof. Public care is usually free or low-cost after registration; without registration, ask clinics or NGOs about community care.
Frequently asked questions
What number do I call for an ambulance in Finland?
Call 112. It works for urgent medical, fire and police emergencies.
Which office should I contact first in Finland?
Start with Kela — Social Insurance Institution. For broader newcomer help, also check Migri — Finnish Immigration Service, DVV — Digital & Population Data Agency, Kela — Social Insurance Institution.
What language will offices use in Finland?
The main administrative language is Finnish / Swedish. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Do I need private insurance?
In most EU countries, once you are legally resident, public healthcare covers you. Private insurance is optional and used for faster access to specialists.
What does a doctor visit cost?
Usually free or a small copayment (5–25 EUR). Costs are much higher without a residence permit — use community clinics if that is your situation.