Have You Become Unemployed or Been Laid Off?

What to Do If You Become Unemployed

1. Register as a Jobseeker

If you become unemployed or are at risk of unemployment, you must register as a jobseeker.

You can register even before your unemployment begins. However, make sure to register no later than your first day of unemployment, as unemployment benefits can only be granted from the day of registration.

You can register through the Työmarkkinatori e-Services portal or by visiting in person.

Also, read about your rights and responsibilities as an unemployed jobseeker:
Työmarkkinatori – Rights and responsibilities of unemployed jobseekers

2. Apply for Unemployment Benefits

When you register as unemployed, a labor policy statement will be created for you, or you may be asked for additional information. Once you receive the statement, you can apply for unemployment benefits from Kela or your unemployment fund.

Unemployment benefit is financial support intended to secure your livelihood while unemployed. Its purpose is to help you financially while you look for a new job or participate in employment-promoting services. 

3. Browse Job Openings

You can browse open job listings, for example, on the following websites:

• Open jobs on Työmarkkinatori
• Municipal jobs on Kuntarekry
• Government jobs on Valtiolle.fi

4. We Will Contact You

Once we receive information that your job search has started, we will contact you for an initial interview. During this interview, we will also agree on next steps related to your job search.

What to Do in the Event of a Layoff

If you are laid off, you must register as a jobseeker through the Työmarkkinatori e-Services portal no later than on your first day of layoff.

You can find detailed instructions on Työmarkkinatori.