7 myths about Åland

There are many statements about Åland that are not true - here we take a closer look at seven of the most common misconceptions. Did you know this about Åland?

1. You must be an Ålander to get a job

No, not at all. Åland needs you and your competence. The unemployment rate is low and we’re looking for people with the right competence. In other words, the employment situation is very good. There is a high demand for long-term personnel, especially in healthcare, IT, technology, services, education and childcare.

Unemployment is low, the employment rate is high and there are good job opportunities in Åland.

2. You're not allowed to buy a house

You’re most welcome to buy a house in Åland. When you move you can buy a house in planned areas after applying for a land ownership permit el. a land acquisition licence. Most areas are beautiful and close to nature, some with sea views and boat moorings. An apartment in a housing company is another option and for that no landownership permit is required.

3. Newcomers can't start a business

No problem, as a newcomer you can start your own business. Åland has a long tradition of entrepreneurship and new enterprisers are warmly welcomed. We’re looking forward to new business establishments and fresh ideas.

There are more than 2,900 active businesses in Åland, about 85 per cent of which employ four or fewer people. Many are one-man businesses, but there are also larger companies with a global market. Welcome to apply for a business permit!

More information about starting a business on Åland, please contact www.naringsliv.ax (in Swedish)

4. Åland is an isolated island 

Åland is more than 6 700 islands and skerries in the centre of the Baltic Sea, strategically located between Sweden and Finland. This geographical position makes Åland an important hub for shipping and trade throughout the Baltic Sea region.

Ferry traffic is a central part of communication to and from Åland. Ferries connect Åland with neighbouring countries and regions. The small international airport connects Åland with other destinations in the Nordic region and in Europe.

5. Åland is stone dead when the summer is over 

It is easy to understand why Åland is often associated with the summer months and activities filled with sun and sea. But Åland is so much more! The events calendar is full of activities and events all year round. The Alandica cultural centre has a wide range of visiting artists and theatre performances. Association life is flourishing and there are plenty of sports clubs to choose from.

Åland has the most sports facilities per capita in Finland and there are active associations and clubs for almost every interest.

6. Are you even allowed to move to Åland?

Yes, of course you can move to Åland! Åland is a place with many nationalities. Just over 38 per cent of all people living in Åland were born elsewhere. For people of working age, the number of immigrants is even higher. In total, people of over 80 different nationalities who speak around 70 different languages live in Åland. Welcome to Åland! 

7. Åland is dependent on subsidies from Finland

No, we do not. Most of the taxes collected in Åland are state taxes and go into the Finnish state budget. In return for the tasks carried out by the providence of Åland, the state returns funds to Åland every year through a sepcial settlement and a tax settlement.