At Kela: Booking an Appointment
How to call and book an appointment at Kela (Social Insurance Institution)
Dialogue
YOU
Hei, haluaisin varata ajan Kelaan.
Hi, I'd like to book an appointment at Kela.
KELA
Kyllä, mistä asiasta?
Sure, what is it about?
YOU
Asumistuesta. Olen uusi Suomessa.
Housing allowance. I'm new in Finland.
TIP: Always ask for an appointment number and write it down. Have your ID ready.
At the Grocery Store
Common phrases for shopping at supermarkets (S-market, K-market, Lidl)
Key Phrases
- Missä ovat leivät? - Where is the bread?
- Paljonko maksaa tämä? - How much does this cost?
- Maksan kortilla. - I'll pay by card.
- Kiitos ja heippa! - Thanks and bye!
TIP: You can ask for a loyalty card (kanta-kortti) to get discounts. Save receipts for budgeting.
Apartment Viewing Questions
What to ask when viewing an apartment for rent
Key Phrases
- Kuinka paljon vuokra maksaa? - How much is the rent?
- Neliöitä on...? - How many square meters?
- Ovatko sähköt ja vesi vuokrassa? - Are electricity and water included?
- Milloin voin muuttaa? - When can I move in?
TIP: Always get a written rental agreement. Request a receipt for your security deposit. Ask about utilities.
First Day at Work
Key phrases for your first day at a Finnish workplace
Key Phrases
- Olen iloinen tulla tänne. - I'm happy to be here.
- Minulla on kysymyksia? - Do you have questions?
- Missä on...? - Where is...?
- Voitko toistaa? - Can you repeat?
- En ymmärrä. - I don't understand.
TIP: Finnish colleagues appreciate when immigrants try to speak Finnish. It's okay to ask for clarification.
At the Doctor
How to describe symptoms and book medical appointments
Key Phrases
- Minulla on pää kipeä. - I have a headache.
- Minulla on kuumetta. - I have a fever.
- Missä sattuu? - Where does it hurt?
- Kuinka kauan olet ollut sairas? - How long have you been sick?
- Minulla on yskä. - I have a cough.
TIP: Write down your symptoms before calling. Most Finnish doctor's offices have online appointment systems.
Opening a Bank Account
What to expect and what to prepare when opening a Finnish bank account
Key Phrases
- Haluan avata tilin. - I want to open an account.
- Tarvitsemme henkilöllisyystodistuksesi. - We need your ID.
- Henkilötunnus - Personal ID number
- Tilisiirto - Bank transfer
- Olen uusi Suomessa. - I'm new in Finland.
TIP: Get your personal ID number from DVV first. Major banks: Nordea, OP, S-Pankki, Aktia. Many offer online banking only.
