Ukrainians in Finland will be able to receive a state pension
Ukrainians living in Finland are eligible for a state pension on the same terms as local residents.
This was reported by the Finnish Social Insurance Institution (Kela).
This refers to the “national pension,” which can be applied for by those who have lived in the country for at least three years. The first applications can be submitted by Ukrainians who arrived in 2023.
Finland offers several types of benefits: the basic national pension, the old-age pension (starting at age 65), disability benefits, and the guaranteed pension.
The maximum guaranteed payment is approximately 991 euros per month.
To receive a pension, you must reach retirement age and have lived in the country legally and continuously for at least three years.
However, the count begins from the moment your residence is recognized as permanent, not from the date of entry.
Kela emphasizes that pensions are not granted automatically—each application is reviewed individually, taking into account the level of integration, place of employment, and other factors.
This approach differs from that of most EU countries, where assistance to Ukrainians is primarily temporary in nature.
As a reminder, Finland has deported a record number of Russians.
Finland is also making it more difficult to obtain a permanent residence permit.
