When people search for “Julkiset Ty,” they are usually looking for information regarding Finland’s public employment and business services, known in Finnish as Julkiset työ- ja elinkeinopalvelut (or TE-palvelut). These services are designed to help job seekers find employment and assist employers in finding the right talent. Whether you are currently unemployed, looking to change careers, or moving to Finland from abroad, understanding how these services work is essential for your professional journey.
The system provides a wide range of resources, from financial support during unemployment to vocational training and career coaching. In recent years, the platform has transitioned toward a digital-first model via the “Työmarkkinatori” (Marketplace for Jobs), making it easier for users to manage their affairs online. This article provides a comprehensive overview of how to use these services effectively and what to expect from the Finnish public employment system.
What are Julkiset Ty- ja Elinkeinopalvelut?
Julkiset Ty refers to the statutory services provided by the state to maintain a high employment rate and support the economy. These services are managed by TE Offices (TE-toimistot) and the ELY Centres (Centres for Economic Development, Transport, and the Environment).
The primary goal is to match job seekers with open positions as quickly as possible. To achieve this, the government offers personalized advice, various forms of financial aid, and educational programs. The services are not just for those who are unemployed; they are also available to students, people currently working who want a career change, and entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses.
How to Register as a Job Seeker
The first step in accessing public employment services is registering as a job seeker. This is a mandatory requirement if you wish to apply for unemployment benefits in Finland. The process is primarily handled online through the “Oma asiointi” (E-services) portal.
To register, you will need a form of strong electronic identification, such as Finnish online banking credentials or a mobile certificate. Follow these steps to get started:
- Visit Työmarkkinatori: Go to the official website and log in to the “Oma asiointi” section.
- Complete the Profile: Fill in your educational background, work experience, and the type of work you are looking for.
- Submit Your Registration: Once submitted, your status as a job seeker becomes valid immediately.
- Wait for Contact: A specialist from the TE Office or your local municipality will usually contact you to create an employment plan.
If you do not have Finnish banking credentials, you may need to visit a local TE Office or a citizen’s advice point in person to verify your identity and start your registration. It is important to register on your first day of unemployment at the latest, as benefits cannot be paid retroactively for the time before you were registered.
Services for Individual Job Seekers
Once you are registered, you gain access to a variety of tools designed to improve your employability. These services are tailored to your specific situation, skills, and goals.
Career Coaching and Guidance
If you are unsure about your next career move, you can access vocational guidance and career planning services. Psychologists and career counselors are available to help you identify your strengths and explore new industries that might suit your skillset.
Labor Market Training (Työvoimakoulutus)
One of the most valuable aspects of Julkiset Ty is the provision of free vocational training. These courses are intended for adults who are unemployed or at risk of unemployment. The training is often designed in collaboration with employers, meaning there is a high chance of finding a job immediately after completing the course.
Work Trials (Työkokeilu)
A work trial allows you to experience a specific job or career field at a workplace. This is particularly helpful for those who have been out of the workforce for a long time or those who are considering a complete change in profession. During a work trial, you do not receive a salary, but you continue to receive your unemployment benefit plus a small daily reimbursement for expenses.
Understanding Unemployment Benefits
The public employment service works closely with Kela (the Social Insurance Institution of Finland) and various unemployment funds. While the TE Office determines your eligibility for benefits based on your job-seeking status, they do not actually pay the money.
There are three main types of unemployment support in Finland:
- Earnings-related Allowance: Paid by unemployment funds to their members. This is usually higher than the basic allowance.
- Basic Unemployment Allowance: Paid by Kela to those who have met the “employment condition” but are not members of a fund.
- Labor Market Subsidy: Paid by Kela to those entering the job market for the first time or those who have exhausted their eligibility for the other allowances.
To keep receiving these benefits, you must remain an active job seeker. This means applying for a certain number of jobs per month and participating in the services agreed upon in your employment plan.
Services for Employers and Entrepreneurs
Julkiset Ty is not only for employees. Employers can use the system to post job advertisements for free and search for potential candidates in the CV database. The TE Office also provides “Pay Subsidies” (palkkatuki), which is financial assistance given to an employer to cover part of the salary costs of hiring an unemployed job seeker.
For those looking to start their own business, the “Start-up Grant” (starttiraha) is a vital resource. This grant provides basic income for a new entrepreneur during the initial stages of the business, usually for the first six to twelve months. To receive it, you must have a viable business plan and receive a positive assessment from the TE Office.
The 2025 Reform: TE Services Moving to Municipalities
It is important to note that the structure of Julkiset Ty is currently undergoing a major transformation. Starting January 1, 2025, the responsibility for providing employment services will move from the state TE Offices to local municipalities (kunnat).
This reform, often called “TE2025,” aims to bring services closer to the residents. The goal is to integrate employment services with other municipal services, such as education and social health services. For the average user, this means that in the future, you will likely visit your local city hall or a municipal service point instead of a state TE Office for career assistance.
Rights and Obligations of the Job Seeker
Using public employment services comes with specific responsibilities. To ensure the system remains fair and effective, job seekers must adhere to certain rules. Failure to follow these can result in a “suspension period” (karenssi), during which you will not receive unemployment benefits.
Your main obligations include:
- Keeping your contact information up to date in the online portal.
- Responding to contact requests from your assigned specialist.
- Applying for jobs as agreed in your employment plan.
- Attending scheduled meetings and interviews.
- Informing the TE Office of any changes, such as starting a part-time job, beginning studies, or going on sick leave.
Conversely, you have the right to receive professional service, a personalized employment plan, and the opportunity to appeal decisions that you believe are incorrect.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of Julkiset Ty can seem complex at first, but it is a powerful system designed to support your professional growth and financial stability. By staying proactive, keeping your online profile updated, and taking advantage of training opportunities, you can significantly increase your chances of success in the Finnish labor market. Remember that the system is there to help you, and the more active you are in your own job search, the more effective these services will be.
If you found this guide helpful, you may also want to explore our articles on navigating the Finnish social security system or tips for writing a professional CV for the Nordic job market to further your career goals.