The Finnish personal identity code (henkilötunnus) is a unique 11-digit code that identifies you on Finland’s national population information system. Using this code, state officials and some private companies can access your personal data, such as your date and place of birth, nationality and marital status.
The code is also linked to multiple different public systems so officials can also see your health details, education information, police fines and penalties etc. through your code. Many private companies (eg. phone and internet operators, banks) also use the code to identify you.
Legally, you need to get the identity code if you are staying in Finland for more than one year. If you are staying for less than a year, you can request the code in some special cases where you may need it, such as if you are studying or working (check with your Local Register Office ). Once you have the code, it does not expire.
How to get an ID code
Obtaining the ID code is easy. Since February 2019, it is assigned to you automatically when you receive your residence permit (non-EU/EEA country citizens) or when you register your right of residence in Finland at the Finnish Immigration Service (EU member country and Swiss citizens).
If you are a citizen of a Nordic country (Denmark, Iceland, Norway or Sweden) you need to register at your Local Register Office (LRO) within one week of your arrival in Finland. You will receive your ID code when you do this.
Verifying your identity and address
When you receive the code automatically, only your very basic information (e.g. name, date of birth) will be registered under it. Your address in Finland will not be. If your address is not registered under your ID code, you will not be entitled to certain public services (healthcare, education etc.) in your city or town. This means that you need to personally register your address at your LRO.
When visiting the LRO to register your address, you should bring :
- your passport/ID card
- residence permit (citizens of non-EU/EEA countries)
- proof you have registered your right of residence (citizens of non-EU/EEA countries and Switzerland
- your marriage/divorce certificate (if applicable)
- employment contract (if applicable)
- proof of enrollment in university/college (if applicable)
If you want to also register your children and partner, they need to come with you when you register at the LRO. You also need to provide official and translated versions of:
- birth certificates
- marriage certificate
Citizens of Nordic countries can register their address at the same time they initially register at the LRO and get their ID code.
No identity code?
If you are living in Finland and do not have a Finnish identity code, you should contact your LRO.