Up to €991 per month: What pensions are available to Ukrainians in Finland
30 March 17:34
Ukrainians living in Finland who do not have a sufficient private pension may be eligible for a state social pension. This is the so-called “national pension,” which is granted by the Finnish Social Insurance Institution (Kela).
This is reported by the Finnish Social Insurance Institution Kela, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
This benefit is provided to the elderly or those who have lost their ability to work and do not have sufficient income.
What types of pensions exist in Finland
There are several types of pensions in the Finnish social security system.
Earned pension
This is a benefit that a person earns through work or entrepreneurial activity.
National Pension (kansaneläke)
A social benefit provided by Kela to people with low incomes or without an employment pension.
Ukrainians are eligible for this type of benefit.
When you can receive the benefit
The national pension can be granted in several cases:
- on the basis of age (old-age pension) — upon reaching the age of 65;
- in the event of disability (työkyvyttömyyseläke);
- as rehabilitation assistance (kuntoutustuki) — if a person is unable to work for an extended period due to illness.
In addition, a guaranteed pension (takuueläke) is available—an additional payment for those whose income is below the minimum level.
What is the amount of the guaranteed pension?
The full amount of the guaranteed pension in Finland is approximately 991 euros per month.
However, it can only be granted after a person:
- has applied for all pensions to which they are entitled;
- takes into account potential benefits in both Finland and other countries.
Basic requirements for Ukrainians
To receive a pension in Finland, several requirements must be met.
Specifically:
- be over 65 years of age;
- have resided legally in Finland for at least three years.
However, the three-year period is not calculated from the moment of arrival in the country.
Kela notes that permanent residence is generally considered to be established approximately one year after moving, when a person has effectively integrated into the country.
Why a pension may not be granted
Pension benefits in Finland are not granted automatically.
Kela reviews each application individually.
The following factors are considered during the assessment:
- whether the person has a permanent address in Finland;
- whether they work or have a family in the country;
- the level of integration into Finnish society;
- the completeness of the submitted documents.
What this means for Ukrainians
For some Ukrainians who moved to Finland after the war began, this system could become a source of basic social protection.
At the same time, experts emphasize that eligibility for benefits depends on the length of residence, income, and the individual’s status in the country.
