Where English is more common
English is more often the working language in software and IT, games, startups, research and universities, and international companies. Some roles in other sectors also work in English when the team is international. Even then, everyday Finnish helps at work and in the long term.
Customer service, healthcare, education, and public sector roles more often require Finnish or Swedish. Public sector jobs, especially those that require a university degree, can have formal language requirements.
Read the language requirement in each ad
"Työkieli on englanti" means the working language is English. "Sujuva suomen kielen taito" in the requirements means fluent Finnish is expected. "Hyvä suomen kielen taito" means good Finnish. "Suomen kielen taito katsotaan eduksi" means Finnish is a plus, not a requirement.
If an ad is only in Finnish and says nothing about language, Finnish is probably used at work, but not always. Ask the contact person; questions before applying are normal in Finland. The free Finnish job ad explainer on JobFitCV lists the language requirement of any ad in plain English.
Present your language skills honestly
List every language you speak with a clear level. If you are learning Finnish, add your course and current level, for example "Finnish: basic (A2), currently studying". Do not overstate it; interviews and daily work reveal the real level quickly.
JobFitCV never adds language skills to your CV that you do not have. If an ad requires Finnish and your CV does not show it, you will see that gap clearly in the result instead of having it hidden.
Make the most of what you have
Put your strongest relevant experience first and match it to the must-haves in the ad. Other languages can be an advantage, for example in customer service for international customers. International experience, certificates, and concrete results all help.
Some Finnish cards that certain jobs require, such as the hygiene passport or the occupational safety card, can be completed with short courses. Check which ones your target jobs ask for.
Where to look and how to apply
Search the public Job Market Finland service (Työmarkkinatori), employer career pages, LinkedIn, and recruitment and staffing agencies. Registered jobseekers usually agree on a job search obligation with their employment services; tailored applications help you meet it with applications that have a real chance.
If you are not an EU or EEA citizen, check that your residence permit allows you to work. The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) has the current rules.
Tools that help
Use the free Finnish job ad explainer to understand an ad before you apply. When an ad fits, JobFitCV tailors your CV to it and writes a matching cover letter in English or Finnish, keeping your experience and language levels truthful.
FAQ
Can I get a job in Finland with only English?
Yes, in some fields and companies, but your options are wider with Finnish or Swedish. Read each ad's language requirement and focus on roles that use English or treat Finnish as a plus.
Should I say that I am learning Finnish?
If you are, yes, with your real level and course. Do not claim more than you have.
Does an ad written in Finnish mean English will not work?
Not always. Some employers advertise in Finnish but work in English within the team. If the ad does not state a language requirement, ask the contact person.
Can JobFitCV write my CV and cover letter in Finnish?
Yes. Only send a Finnish application if you can work at the level it suggests, because the interview will be in the same language.
Apply in English, honestly
Check what a Finnish ad really asks for, then tailor your CV and a cover letter to it. Free explainer and free preview; one-time payments only if you want the full result.