Teaching Jobs in Finland for Foreigners with Visa Sponsorship in 2026

Finland offers various teaching positions for people from other countries who want to work there. Many jobs come with help for getting a visa. These roles are often in English teaching or at international schools. Employers can sponsor your work permit if you meet the basic needs. This makes it possible for foreigners to start a career in education without too much hassle.

Basic Requirements for Foreign Teachers

To teach in Finland, you need certain skills and papers. Most jobs ask for a bachelor’s degree, but some do not make it a must for the visa. A TEFL certificate helps a lot, especially for English teaching. This shows you know how to teach English as a foreign language. It takes about 120 hours to get one, and it’s the standard level many schools want.

If your degree is from outside Finland, you might need to get it checked by the Finnish National Agency for Education. This is key for roles in public schools or regulated jobs like primary teaching. For primary school teachers, a master’s degree in education is often required. But for language schools or assistants, the rules are more flexible. You do not always need teaching experience, though it can help you stand out.

English skills are important. You do not have to be a native speaker, but prove your level with tests like IELTS or a degree in English. Knowing some Finnish or Swedish is a plus, but not always needed for jobs in international settings. Age limits are rare, and people from 18 to 45 can apply for many visas.

Here are the main requirements in a simple list:

• Bachelor’s degree (preferred for most roles).
• TEFL or similar teaching certificate.
• Clean criminal record.
• Good health check.
• Job offer from a Finnish employer.

Types of Teaching Jobs Available

In 2026, you can find jobs in private language schools, international schools, and some public ones. These are mostly in cities like Helsinki, Tampere, or Oulu. English teaching is popular because many Finns want to improve their skills for work or school.

Private schools often hire for English classes. These can be part-time or full-time, with five hours of teaching a day. International schools teach in English and follow global programs. They need teachers for subjects like math or science, but English roles are common too.

Kindergarten or early childhood jobs are growing. These focus on play-based learning and need basic education skills. Some positions are for assistants, which suit less experienced people.

Vocational schools offer roles in teaching skills like business English. If you have work experience in a field, you can teach adults. Online teaching is also an option, but in-person jobs are more likely to sponsor visas.

A quick table shows common job types:

Job Type	Typical Location	Experience Needed	Visa Sponsorship Likely?
English Language Teacher	Helsinki, urban areas	Low to medium	Yes
Primary School Teacher	Schools across Finland	Medium to high	Yes, with qualifications
Kindergarten Assistant	Cities and towns	Low	Sometimes
Vocational Instructor	Vocational institutes	Medium	Yes

Visa and Work Permit Process

Non-EU foreigners need a residence permit for work. This acts as your visa. Your employer sponsors it by offering you a job first. Private schools often cover costs for permits and help with forms.

Apply online through the Enter Finland portal. You need your job contract, passport, and proof of skills. The process takes a few months, so start early. In 2026, rules for skilled workers like teachers are faster. You can work while waiting if you apply from inside Finland sometimes.

For EU citizens, it’s easier—no permit needed. But for others, the employer handles much of the sponsorship. This includes showing why they need a foreign teacher. Once approved, the permit lasts one to two years and can renew.

Steps to follow:

1. Find a job offer.
2. Get your qualifications recognized if needed.
3. Submit application online with employer help.
4. Wait for approval and move to Finland.

How to Find and Apply for Jobs

Look for jobs on sites like Teach Away, TEFL Org, or Work in Finland. These list openings for English speakers. International job boards like Tes or Glassdoor have listings too. In 2026, there are about 50 teaching jobs open at any time.

Network on LinkedIn or Facebook groups for teachers in Finland. Apply with a CV, cover letter, and certificates. Interviews might be online. Some schools help with moving, like flights or housing search.

For less skilled roles, start as a teaching assistant. This builds experience and leads to better jobs. Many start in summer schools or freelance before full-time work.

Salaries and Benefits for Teachers

English teachers earn around €3,220 per month on average. That’s about $3,550 USD. Primary teachers might get €3,000 to €4,500. Pay depends on experience and location—higher in cities.

Benefits are strong. You get health insurance, paid holidays, and work-life balance. Full-time jobs limit teaching to five hours a day, with time for planning. Some schools offer housing help or medical coverage. Foreign workers have the same rights as Finns.

Living costs are high, but salaries cover it. Rent in Helsinki is €800-€1,200 for a small place. Food and transport add up, but public services are free or cheap.

Living and Working in Finland as a Teacher

Finland ranks high for quality of life. You enjoy clean air, nature, and safe cities. Work culture values balance—short days and long vacations. Teachers are respected, and schools focus on student well-being.

Integrating takes time. Winters are cold and dark, but summers are bright. Learn basic Finnish to make friends. Many speak English, especially in jobs.

For families, schools are top-notch. From 2026, more English options for kids help foreign workers move. This makes it easier if you have children.

Challenges include language barriers outside work and high taxes. But support from employers helps. Many teachers stay long-term because of the stable life.

Final Tips for Success

Prepare your papers early. Get a TEFL if you lack one—it’s a quick way to qualify. Focus on English teaching if you’re new to the field. Contact schools directly for sponsorship info.

Finland needs more teachers in 2026, especially in growing areas like early education. With a job offer, visa support is straightforward. This path offers a rewarding career in a welcoming country.