Arriving in Finland

Welcome to Finland!

Excited about starting your new journey? We’re here to help you settle in. Here’s everything you need to know about arriving in this beautiful country and making it your new home.

Before you arrive

1. Applying for a Residence Permit

If you require a residence permit to study in Finland, make sure to apply for it well in advance. Processing times can vary, so it’s best to start as soon as you receive your acceptance letter.

2. Arrange Accommodation

Finding a comfortable place to stay is crucial. Visit our Housing page for detailed information on housing options and tips for securing student apartments in Helsinki region.

3. Pack for Finland’s Climate

Finland’s weather can be quite different from what you’re used to. Winters are cold, with temperatures often below freezing, so bring warm clothing. Even in other seasons, layering is key to staying comfortable in Finland’s unpredictable weather.

Arrival in Finland

Arriving During Haaga-Helia Pick-up Days

If you arrive during the pick-up days, Haaga-Helia tutors will meet you at your arrival point. It’s best to arrive on the recommended arrival day provided by your exchange school to guarantee a pick-up. Look out for a Haaga-Helia tutor wearing a purple Tutor t-shirt.

For students arriving in Porvoo or Vierumäki, tutors will guide you accordingly, whether that’s meeting you in Helsinki or helping you with bus connections. Once you’re picked up, tutors will take you directly to your accommodation.

Please make sure to inform Haaga-Helia International Services of your arrival time by filling in the electronic arrival form, so they can arrange everything smoothly.

Arriving at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport

Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is Finland’s main international airport, and getting to the city center is easy with several convenient transport options:

Train: Direct trains (I and P lines) run frequently from the airport to Helsinki Central Railway Station. The journey will take about 30 minutes.
Bus: Several bus lines connect the airport to the city center and surrounding areas.
Taxi: Taxis are available outside the terminals.

Arriving by Ferry

Helsinki has several ferry terminals for travelers arriving from nearby countries, such as Estonia, Sweden, or Germany. The main terminals include:

West Terminal (Länsisatama): Served by Tallink Silja and Eckerö Line ferries.
South Terminal (Eteläsatama): Mainly for Viking Line ferries.
Katajanokka Terminal: Used by Viking Line ferries to Tallin.

Transport connections from these terminals include trams, buses, and taxis, making it easy to reach your accommodation or next destination.

Essential First Steps After Arrival

Getting a SIM Card

You can get free SIM cards from ESN Haaga-Helia's office or pop-up point during orientation days. The SIM cards are offered by DNA, and are pre-paid with up to 10€ worth of data and talk time, which can be topped up afterwards.

You can also purchase a prepaid SIM card from various providers at airports, stores, or R-kioski. Some popular mobile providers include DNA, Elisa, and Telia.

Registering Your Residence and Obtaining a Finnish ID

As an exchange student, you’ll need to register your residence in Finland at the Local Register Office (Digi- ja väestötietovirasto - DVV).

Getting Familiar with Public Transport

Finland's public transportation system is efficient and easy to navigate. Visit the HSL website for detailed information on routes, timetables, and how to use the HSL app to buy tickets and plan your journeys.

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