Family Benefits: Parental Leave and Child Allowance
Finland offers families a strong social support system, with several benefits to support parents and children. If you are living in the country permanently, you can access many of these benefits. However, you must meet certain conditions, like registering with local authorities and applying through the right channels. This section will explain the key benefits for families in Finland and guide you on how to apply and where to find help.
Overview of the Finnish Social System
Finland has a well-organized social system designed to support people through different stages of life. The main organization handling social benefits is Kela, but local municipalities also play a big role. They offer services like daycare, schools, and housing support.
To access these services, you must register your family in Finland to get personal identity codes and a permanent address in the country. Once you are registered, you can apply for benefits through Kela or your local municipality.
Finland’s system is built to ensure everyone has access to basic needs. Understanding how it works is the first step to making the most of it.
The New Parental Leave System
Finland has one of the most generous parental leave systems in the world. When you have a baby, both parents receive ample time to stay home with their child. The total leave time is 320 working days, divided equally between both parents. Parents can use this leave anytime before the child turns two.
Each parent can transfer up to 63 days of their leave to the other parent. Both parents can take their leave simultaneously for a maximum of 18 days. The leave does not need to be taken continuously; it can be split into periods of at least 12 days. Parents can also apply for partial parental allowance when working no more than 5 hours a day.
Pregnancy Leave
Before parental leave begins, the birthing parent is entitled to a pregnancy allowance, which lasts for 40 working days and usually starts a month before the due date, but no later than 14 working days before the due date.
Money and Benefits
The amount of money you get during leave depends on your salary. Most people get about 70% of their normal pay. There is also a minimum amount – everyone gets at least €30.71 per day. For the first 56 days, parents get a higher payment rate.
You can even work part-time during your leave if you want to. Both parents can be home at the same time. Single parents can use all 320 days themselves.
How to Apply
You need to apply through Kela. Kela is the Finnish social security office. Apply online at least two months before you want your leave to start. You can change the dates later if you need to.
You’ll need some documents:
- A certificate from your doctor if you’re pregnant
- Information about your job and salary
- Your residence permit if you’re from outside the EU
Special Cases
If you have twins, you get extra time – 84 more working days for each extra baby. If you adopt, you get the same amount of leave time, but there’s no pregnancy leave.
Child Benefits
Every family in Finland gets money each month for their children. This is called child benefit. You get it for each child under 17 years old. The amount increases with each child:
- First child: €95.75 per month
- Second child: €105.00
- Third child: €133.79
- Fourth child: €163.24
- Fifth and later children: €182.69
Single parents get extra money – €63.30 more per child each month. You don’t need to pay tax on child benefits.
What You Need to Know as an Expat
To get these benefits, you need to live in Finland permanently. You also need to be part of the Finnish social security system. If you’re from the EU, register your residence. If you’re from outside the EU, you need a valid residence permit.
Don’t worry if you don’t speak Finnish. Kela offers services in English. You can get forms in English too. If you need help, they can arrange an interpreter.
Where to Get Help
Kela has an international office you can call: +358 20 634 0200. They speak English and can help you with any questions. You can also visit their website: www.kela.fi/web/en.
For more help settling in Finland, visit InfoFinland’s website: www.infofinland.fi. They have lots of useful information for families.
Remember
The amounts of money mentioned here are correct for 2024. They usually change a bit each year. It’s a good idea to check the exact amounts on Kela’s website. Also, some cities in Finland give extra benefits to families. Check with your local city office to see what else you might get.
If you’re working part-time or planning childcare after your leave, there are other benefits available. Ask Kela about flexible care allowance and childcare options in your area.