Your Legal Rights as a Worker in Helsinki

Finland is famous for having some of the strongest labor protections in the world. Whether you are working as a delivery driver, a cleaner, or a warehouse packer in Helsinki, you are protected by a system designed to ensure fairness, safety, and a living wage. However, for international workers, the system can seem complex. This guide explains exactly what you are entitled to under Finnish law.

1. The Collective Agreement (TES)

In many countries, there is a single national minimum wage. In Finland, it works differently. Minimum wages are set by Collective Agreements (Työehtosopimus or “TES”). These are agreements negotiated between labor unions and employer federations for specific industries.

For example, if you work in the facility management (cleaning) sector, your minimum pay, holiday bonuses, and sick leave are determined by the Kiinteistöpalveluala TES. Even if you are not a member of a union, your employer is legally required to follow the TES rules for your industry. Never accept a “flat rate” that is lower than the current TES standard.

2. Working Hours and Mandatory Breaks

The standard work week in Helsinki is typically 37.5 to 40 hours. Under the Working Hours Act, you are entitled to specific rest periods:

• Daily Rest: If your shift is longer than 6 hours, you are entitled to at least a 30-minute break (usually unpaid).
• Weekly Rest: You must have at least 35 hours of continuous rest every week, usually including Sunday.
• Overtime: Overtime is voluntary. If you agree to it, the first two hours are typically paid at 50% extra, and subsequent hours at 100% extra.

3. Sick Pay and Occupational Healthcare

If you fall ill, you are entitled to paid sick leave if your employment has lasted for at least one month. In most cases, you will receive full pay for the day you fall ill and the following nine days. Furthermore, all employers in Helsinki must provide Occupational Healthcare (Työterveyshuolto) for their staff. This means you have access to a doctor for work-related health issues for free.

4. The Trial Period (Koeaika)

Most contracts in Helsinki begin with a trial period, which can last up to six months. During this time, both you and the employer can terminate the contract without a notice period. However, the reason for termination cannot be discriminatory (such as your nationality or language skills).