Public services State services include the judicial system, the police, the defence forces, tax administration, and employment and economic development services. The basic individual rights are stated in the Finnish constitution and all people are equal before the law. In civil and criminal cases, the judicial power is exercised by independent courts. The operation of authorities is based on transparency. Documents and actions are, for the most part, public. Municipal services Finnish municipalities have broad self-government and municipal decision-makers are chosen in elections based on universal and equal suffrage. Municipalities or groups of municipalities are chiefly in charge of social work, health care and education services for the inhabitants and also organize necessary services for companies in the area. The private sector also provides health care services. Municipalities are in charge of land use planning in their area from housing to industrial buildings, and they also supervise construction and development. Municipalities are also responsible for water supply and sewerage. Municipal land use is governed by the Land Use and Building Act. The builder of a property must apply for a building permit for their own or a rented plot from municipal building control and have their building project approved by them. Municipal building control ensures that building is allowed only on approved plots and according to the building permit drawings. Building control takes care of all questions concerning construction. Environmental protection is monitored by a municipal environmental protection official. 13 Working in Finland The relationship between employees and employers is governed by labour legislation and collective agreements. They define the minimum wage, employee’s right to breaks and free time, payment methods of salaries, workplace conditions, occupational safety, and training. Ministry of Employment and the Economy www.tem.fi/en/current_issues/publications/ brochures/welcome_to_finland www.tem.fi/en/work/labour_legislation Occupational Safety and Health Administration www.tyosuojelu.fi/fi/workingfinland Finnish Centre for Pensions www.etk.fi/en Th e rights and responsibilities of a foreign employee A foreign employee coming to Finland requires a valid passport or some other valid travel documentation. Finland is part of the Schengen Area, but an identification card can still be required inside the area’s borders. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland is in charge of visa policy. Foreign missions of Finland grant visas and accept applications for citizenship and residence permits. The Ministry of the Interior is responsible for immigration administration, and the Finnish Immigration Service and the police are responsible for entry into the country. The Finnish Immigration Service grants the initial residence permits. The police grant extended residence permits and accept registration of EU citizens. Contact information and addresses of public service points www.suomi.fi/suomifi/ english/service_map
Hanhikivi Guide 2015
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