Pensions and foreign residence

If you planning to move abroad

Before moving abroad, you should find out whether you can expect to retain social security coverage in Finland. If this is not the case, contact the relevant social security institution in your destination country to ask about your coverage there. Not all countries have a social security system similar to the Finnish one. There may be significant differences in the types of benefits available.

The length and permanence of your residence abroad factor into your ability to retain coverage under the Finnish social security system. Those living another EU or EEA member country typically enjoy broader rights to pensions and medical care than those who live in some other country. Kela issues a European Health Insurance Card to pensioners living permanently in another EU country.

You must notify Kela if you move abroad or live outside Finland, even if temporarily. Kela must also be notified about changes in circumstances, such as employment abroad, start or termination of studies or research work, gaining coverage under the social security system of the country of stay and returning to Finland. Kela will decide on your coverage under the Finnish social security system.

Updated 10/31/12