Long-term landlords want a henkilötunnus, a Finnish bank account and a payslip. You have none of them on arrival. So almost everyone starts in a furnished short-term apartment and moves once the paperwork exists.
The options
| Option | Typical price | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Furnished apartment companies (Forenom, Flatta, Furent, Norden Homes) | 900–1,800 € a month for a studio or one-bedroom in Helsinki, less elsewhere | Utilities and internet included, contracts by the week or month, English service, an address you can register |
| Monthly rentals on booking platforms | similar, often more | Check that a rental agreement is provided for DVV; some hosts will not give one |
| Student housing (HOAS, TOAS, TYS, PSOAS) | 300–600 € | Only for admitted students; apply the day you are admitted, queues are long |
| Employer-arranged housing | often free for the first month | Ask; many hospitals and large employers have arrival apartments |
| Hostels and hotels | 40–120 € a night | A week at most; no address to register |
What to check before booking
- A written agreement with your name and the address, for DVV and the bank.
- What is included: electricity, water, internet, bedding, a washing machine or laundry room.
- Notice period for leaving early, in case you find a flat in week three.
- Location near your workplace or a train station; the first weeks have many appointments.
Using the time well
The temporary weeks are for the first 30 days checklist: DVV, bank, Kela, tax card. Book those before you unpack. In the second week, start looking for a lease; by the time the payslip arrives you will be ready to sign.