When you become unemployed or are laid off, it is important to take care of a few basic matters. This way you ensure that your job search gets off to a smooth start and that you receive the benefits you need.
1
Register as a job seeker
Register as a job seeker as soon as possible in the E-services at Job Market Finland
You can register in advance if you know the unemployment or layoff will start on a certain date. Make sure you register no later than your first day of unemployment.
If you do not have the possibility to use electronic identification, you can fill in the electronic form or you can contact Employment Services for instructions.
2
Familiarize yourself with your rights and obligations
As a job seeker you have rights and obligations. These affect, among other things, whether you are eligible for unemployment benefits. Follow the actions and timelines agreed upon as part of your job search, and participate in the agreed meetings and services.
Read the guidance on Job Market Finland so you know what is expected of you.
3
Create and publish your job applicant profile
A job applicant profile is a profile you prepare on Job Market Finland where you describe your skills, education, work experience and the kind of work you are looking for. Employers can search for suitable candidates via Job Market Finland and get in touch with jobseekers that they are interested in.
When you register as an unemployed job seeker, you generally have 15 working days from the start of your job search to complete and publish your job applicant profile. If you fail to publish your job applicant profile within the deadline, an employment official will enter the minimum information in the profile and publish the profile on your behalf.
How to fill in and publish your job applicant profile (tyomarkkinatori.fi)
4
Attend the initial interview
After you have registered as a job seeker, Employment Services will contact you. You will meet a specialist in an initial interview where your situation is reviewed and your job search is planned.
Together you will prepare an employment or integration plan. The plan will include, for example:
- which jobs you will apply for
- which services or trainings you will use
- what you need to do during the job search
During your job search, you will meet with an employment specialist when needed through job search discussions. During these discussions, the progress of your job search is monitored, and your employment plan is updated.
Read more about the initial interview and job search discussions (Job Market Finland)
5
Apply for unemployment benefits
You can apply for unemployment benefits from Kela or an unemployment fund if you meet the criteria. Benefits are not paid automatically; you must apply for them separately. You will receive benefits only if you meet the eligibility conditions.
6
Actively look for work
Apply for jobs actively and keep your job search ongoing. Follow the agreed employment plan.
7
Make use of services and training
You can get support through, for example, training, coaching or work try-outs. Discuss with your specialist which services might suit you.
8
Be reachable and keep your information up to date
Notify us if your situation changes.
Keep your contact information up to date and be reachable so that your job search and benefits continue normally.