Spouse Support at the University of Helsinki

The HEI LIFE Spouse Network connects spouses of employees from higher education institutions and research institutes throughout the greater Helsinki area, creating a supportive community for collaboration and networking. This network offers a dynamic platform for cultural and social engagement, with opportunities to participate in various events and gatherings, particularly festive occasions organized around Christmas and Midsummer. All spouses within this group are warmly encouraged to join and take part in our diverse range of activities.

The network’s activities include:

• Monthly newsletter with event highlights, seasonal tips, Finnish cultural insights, and resources for networking, job seeking, and family supports in Helsinki.

•  Social, cultural and networking events

•  Monthly Coffee & Chat get-togethers

The UniBuddy programme helps international staff, and their family members get settled at the University of Helsinki and the region and meet new people.

UniBuddies are Finnish or international staff members of the University of Helsinki who volunteer to help international colleagues and their spouses to settle in. Meetings are informal, depending on the interests of you and your UniBuddy.

We welcome the spouses of our newly arrived staff members to participate in selected events. You can join the orientation events of the University and explore Finnish work environments. The "Experiencing Finland" events, which shed light on Finnish culture and current issues for newcomers, welcome also spouses and children.

We've put together a rich online relocation guide, covering essential topics like finding employment for spouses, childcare and educational options for children, as well as comprehensive information on healthcare and social security for the entire family. It's like a roadmap, making sure you and your family feel supported every step of the way in your new journey.

Finding employment in Finland requires an active approach from the spouse. It is good to notice that learning at least some Finnish or Swedish will help you to not only understand the culture and the everyday life better, but also to improve your employment prospects.

A range of public services are available to support job searching, check for example the following to get started:

Information on working and setting up a business in Finland, InfoFinland

Employment Coaching service, International House Helsinki

The work in Finland website: Information on working in Finland and jobs available in English

International Jobseeker's Guide by the International House Helsinki

Registration as a jobseeker, Job Market Finland E-services

Employment services, City of Helsinki

Employment services, City of Espoo

Employment services, City of Vantaa

The SIMHE services (Supporting Immigrants in Higher Education in Finland) in designated Finnish higher education institutions offer study and career guidance for skilled immigrants in Finland. If you are looking to continue or supplement your education or need career planning assistance SIMHE can help. The services provide advice on educational and career opportunities, ensuring a smooth transition into Finnish higher education or the job market. Additionally, SIMHE services typically organise various events related to these topics. Services vary a little bit in each SIMHE institution.

Explore SIMHE services in Finland

The HEI LIFE Spouse Network (see above) also plays a crucial role in keeping the community informed. Through its monthly newsletter, it shares pertinent information about studying in Finland as and when such details become available. This resource is invaluable for those interested in pursuing further education or career in Finland.