The henkilotunnus (HETU) is Finland personal identity code — an 11-character string that unlocks your bank account, Kela benefits, tax registration, and nearly every digital service in the country. Without it, you are working with one hand tied behind your back.
Who Qualifies
You can get a henkilotunnus if you are moving to Finland for at least one year, or as an EU/EEA citizen exercising your right of residence.
What You Will Need
- Valid passport or EU national ID card
- Proof of address in Finland (rental agreement or letter from employer or university)
- Residence permit (if you are a non-EU/EEA citizen) — your permit must already be approved
Step 1: Book a DVV Appointment
Book online at dvv.fi under “Services — Moving to Finland”. Appointments fill up 2-4 weeks in advance. Offices in Lappeenranta: Kauppakatu 40D.
Step 2: Attend Your Appointment
Bring all documents in the original — photocopies are not accepted. The process takes 20-30 minutes. You will typically receive your henkilotunnus on the same day or it arrives by post within 1-3 working days.
Step 3: Activate Finnish eID
Go to suomi.fi and activate your Finnish digital identity. This lets you log into Kela, Vero, MyKanta, and dozens of other Finnish services.
Do not share your henkilotunnus publicly. It is a high-value piece of identity information in Finland and misuse is a criminal offence.
