Connecting Filipinos in Finland
Image from Kela
Living in Finland as a Filipino parent-to-be might feel overwhelming, especially when you're faced with navigating a new country's system. But fear not! Finland's family benefits system is designed to support parents during this incredible journey. Whether you're expecting your first child or expanding your family, Finland has you covered with generous maternity, paternity, and parental benefits. Let’s dive in!
When you’re pregnant in Finland, the government offers maternity benefits to make sure you’re well-prepared for the arrival of your baby. One of the most iconic parts of Finnish maternity care is the äitiyspakkaus, or maternity package. This box isn’t just a box—it’s a symbol of Finland’s care for its families. It’s filled with baby essentials like clothes, blankets, and even a small mattress, making it a great starter kit for your little one.
Alternatively, if you prefer, you can opt for a cash grant instead of the maternity box. To access this benefit, you must visit a doctor or midwife by the fourth month of pregnancy to confirm your due date. It’s simple, practical, and ensures every baby gets a good start.
Finland believes in the importance of a father’s role in raising a child, so they offer a generous paternity leave. Fathers can take up to 54 working days of paternity leave, allowing them to bond with their newborn without worrying about work.
What’s even better? Fathers can split their leave into multiple periods, as long as the baby is under two years old. This flexibility ensures you can spend meaningful time with your child during those precious early years. Plus, if both parents share leave responsibilities, the family can even qualify for additional days of parental leave.
One of the best aspects of Finland’s parental benefits system is its inclusivity and flexibility. Parents can share a whopping 320 days of parental leave after the baby is born. This means both nanay and tatay can take turns (or overlap) caring for their little one, with pay that allows you to focus on family instead of finances.
Imagine this: while one parent takes leave, the other can work, and then you can switch roles when it’s convenient. Or, you can both take time off together to create beautiful family memories during your baby’s first year. Isn’t that amazing?
Finland’s family benefits are managed by Kela, the Finnish Social Insurance Institution. Maternity, paternity, and parental allowances are calculated based on your previous income, ensuring that you don’t face significant financial strain while focusing on your growing family.
If you haven’t worked long enough or your earnings are low, don’t worry! Kela ensures a minimum allowance, so every parent has access to basic financial support. And yes, as a Filipino resident in Finland, you’re entitled to these benefits as long as you meet the residency requirements.
The process of applying for these benefits is straightforward. You’ll need to create a Kela account (easily done online) and submit your applications there. Be sure to keep track of important dates, like your due date and the start of your leave periods, to make the most of your entitlements.
While all these terms and numbers might feel overwhelming at first, the Finnish system is designed to support you, not confuse you. And don’t hesitate to ask for help! Healthcare professionals, social workers, and even friendly kababayans in Finland are always happy to guide you through the process.
Starting a family in Finland is an exciting adventure. With its world-class benefits, supportive policies, and commitment to gender equality, this country ensures that Filipino parents feel empowered and secure.
So, whether you’re preparing for sleepless nights or excitedly planning for baby’s firsts, take comfort in knowing Finland is with you every step of the way. Enjoy this beautiful chapter of your life, and don’t forget to share your parenting journey with the Filipino community here.
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