Finland is beautiful, safe and full of opportunities — but life here is very different from Sri Lanka. Many who come here for studies or work struggle in the first months simply because nobody told them the real picture.
Here are 7 important truths every Sri Lankan should know before coming to Finland.
01 - Cost of Living Is Higher Than You Expect
Yes, Finland pays better salaries — but expenses are high too.
Rent, transport, food, and winter clothing can surprise newcomers.
📌 Tip - Always come with enough savings for 6–12 months.
02 - Without English, You Can Survive. Without Finnish, You Cannot Grow
You can manage daily life in English……but for,
- Permanent jobs
- Customer service roles
- Government applications
- Long-term settlement
you will eventually need Finnish language.
📌 Tip - Start learning A1 level before you arrive.
03 - Winters Are Not a Joke
From November to March, Finland is dark, cold and snowy.
Your energy levels change, and some people feel lonely or depressed.
📌 Tip - Join communities, stay active, and prepare mentally.
04 - You Must Work Hard in Student Jobs
Many Sri Lankans expect easy jobs. The truth,
- Cleaning jobs
- Factory work
- Dishwashing
- Elderly care assistant roles
These are common starting points — and they require physical effort.
📌 Tip - Come prepared to work honestly until you build your career.
05 - Finnish People Respect Rules — Strictly
Whether it’s,
- Paying taxes
- Sorting waste
- Arriving on time
- Following traffic rules
Finns take everything seriously.
📌 Tip - Discipline is your biggest success tool in Finland.
06 - Getting PR or Citizenship Takes Time
Finland offers great pathways — but nothing happens overnight. You need,
- Legal residence
- Continuous employment
- Language skills
- Clean records
📌 Tip - Plan long-term, not just the first year.
07 - Finland Is Worth It — If You Want a Peaceful, Stable Future
Despite challenges, Finland offers:
- Safe environment
- Free education for children
- Strong workers’ rights
- Respectful culture
For many Sri Lankans, it becomes the best decision of their life.