Key Takeaways- Moving to Finland from the USA typically costs $4,000–$12,000 depending on the shipment size.
- Americans need a residence permit for stays over 90 days.
- Helsinki, Tampere, and Espoo are top cities for US expats.
How Much Does It Cost to Move to Finland from the USA?
Expect to pay between $4,000 and $12,000 to move to Finland from the US, depending on the size of your household and transport method.
These are the average costs based on sea freight:
| Volume | Average cost |
| One-bedroom apartment | $4,000 – $6,500 |
| Three-bedroom house | $8,000 – $12,000 |
Disclaimer: The prices above are estimates. Updated in November 2025.
Are you moving to Finland from America and curious about the exact costs? Calculating the volume of your furniture is the first step. Calculate below:
Best Companies Relocating to Finland from USA
Moving to Finland from the US is an enormous step, and selecting the right removal company is crucial
Here are the 5 best companies for moving to Finland as an American:
Sirelo Top Mover
9.5
441
Naperville
41 ratings as Professional
41 ratings as "Professional"
6.6
36
Long Island City
5 ratings as Professional
5 ratings as "Professional"
9.1
163
Sherman Oaks
5 ratings as Good Communication
5 ratings as "Good Communication"
9.3
69
Fort Lauderdale
3 ratings as Good Price
3 ratings as "Good Price"
4.2
105
Coral Springs
5 ratings as Poor Communication
5 ratings as "Poor Communication"
Can Americans Move to Finland?
Yes, Americans can move to Finland. For short-term visits up to 90 days in 180 days, you do not need a visa. For longer stays, a residence permit is mandatory.
How to Move to Finland from the USA
Immigrating to Finland from the USA is straightforward if you follow the process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Determine the purpose of your stay (work, study, family reunion).
- Apply for the right residence permit via the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).
- Prepare documents. You need a passport that’s valid throughout your stay and documents like a job contract, proof of family ties, or university acceptance.
- Show sufficient financial means. For example, American students need around $590 per month to study in Finland.
- Certain Finnish residence permits require health coverage.
- Wait for approval, which can take weeks to months.
Finland Residence Permit for US Citizens
There are several categories of residence permits in Finland: work-based, study, and family reunification.
- Application fee: $370–$550
- Processing time: Several weeks to months
- Allows work and residency in Finland
How Hard Is It to Move to Finland from the US?
It’s not hard to move to Finland from the USA if you meet the permit criteria and provide required documents.
Finland Visa Requirements for Americans
- Short stays (<90 days): No visa needed
- Long stays (>90 days): Residence permit required
- Apply via migri.fi based on purpose: work, study, or family
Moving Pets to Finland
Pets can be moved to Finland with proper vaccinations and documentation.
- Ensure your pet has an ISO-compliant (11784 or 11785) microchip implanted before the rabies vaccination.
- After the chip, administer a rabies vaccine, at least 21 days before travel.
- Dogs must be treated for Echinococcus multilocularis (tapeworm treatment), between 1 and 5 days before entering Finland.
- Get your pet a passport or veterinary certificate, within 10 days of departure.
- Get an IATA-approved pet crate.
What Is It Like Living in Finland as an American?
Many Americans moving to Finland appreciate its safety, modernity, and nature. English is widely spoken and work-life balance is excellent.
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Cost of Living in Finland vs. USA
Living in Finland is often cheaper than New York but comparable to Houston.
| Item | Helsinki, Finland | New York, USA | Houston, USA |
| Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant) | $17.88 | $30.00 | $17.12 |
| Pint of Beer | $8.14 | $9.00 | $4.75 |
| Regular Cappuccino | $4.56 | $5.95 | $5.07 |
| Eggs (dozen) | $3.04 | $3.49 | $3.30 |
| Single Transport Ticket | $3.10 | $2.90 | $1.19 |
| Monthly Rent (1-bed, City Centre) | $1,090.76 | $4,017.99 | $1,535.51 |
| Monthly Rent (1-bed, Outside Centre) | $851.59 | $2,866.50 | $1,141.48 |
| Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) | $3,002.22 | $5,643.24 | $4,192.03 |
Best Cities in Finland for Expats
Top places for Americans moving to Finland include Helsinki, Tampere, and Espoo:
- Helsinki: The capital is great for US expats looking for career opportunities, fun activities, and international schools.
- Espoo: Espoo is known for the tech industry and family-friendly neighborhoods.
- Tampere: Lakeside living, lower cost of living
- Turku: As the former capital, this city beams with history and culture.
- Lapland: Lapland is famous for its landscapes, the Northern Lights, and diverse outdoor adventures.
Retiring to Finland
There’s no specific retirement visa, but Americans can apply under “other grounds” if they can support themselves.
Options:
- Apply for a residence permit under financial self-sufficiency
- Seek permanent residence after 4 years
Pros and Cons of Living in Finland
Pros
Excellent public services
Safe and peaceful
Beautiful natural landscapes
Free/affordable healthcare
Work-life balance
Cons
High cost of living
Cold
dark winters
Finnish language barrier
Reserved social norms
Checklist: How to Move to Finland from the USA
- Decide on the correct visa (work, study, family)
- Optionally, secure a job with a Finnish employer
- Secure a residence permit for Finland
- Prepare all essential documents
- Open a Finnish bank account and budget for the moving expenses
- Decide on the best place to live in Finland
- Research temporary sublets or long-term housing
- Hire a moving company from Finland to the US
- Once you’ve moved to Finland, register with the local authorities
- Apply for public or private healthcare
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