Vacker tidig solig morgon på granitröda klippor vid blankt hav på Åland.

7 myths about Åland

There are many claims 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 have to be from Åland to get a job

No, not at all. Åland needs you and your knowledge. Unemployment is low here and we have a shortage of people with the right skills. The employment situation is good. We have a high demand for long-term labor, especially in healthcare, IT/technology, service, schools, and childcare.

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

2. You are not allowed to buy a home

You can indeed buy a home in Åland. When you move here, you can buy a house in areas designated for permanent residence as long as you apply for a land acquisition permit. Most areas are beautifully situated close to nature, some with sea views and boat berths. A share apartment is another option. In that case, you do not need a land acquisition permit (unless the housing company has its own conditions requiring you to apply for a land acquisition permit).

3. Newcomers are not allowed to start a business

Of course you are allowed to start a business as a newcomer. Åland has a long tradition of entrepreneurship and warmly welcomes like-minded individuals. We look forward to all new establishments and especially your great ideas.

Åland has just over 2,900 active companies. Approximately 85 percent of these companies employ four people or fewer. Many are sole proprietorships, but there are also larger companies with the world as their market. You are welcome to submit your application for the right to engage in business to the Government of Åland!

More information about starting a business in Åland can be found at www.naringsliv.ax.

4. Åland is an isolated island

Åland consists of just over 6,700 islands and skerries in the middle of the Baltic Sea, strategically situated between Sweden and Finland. The 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 surrounding countries and regions. The small international airport links Åland with other destinations in the Nordic countries and in Europe.

5. Åland is dead when summer is over

It is easy to understand why Åland is often associated with the summer season and activities filled with sun and sea. But Åland is so much more! The events calendar is filled with activities and happenings throughout the year. The cultural center Alandica offers a rich selection of visiting artists and theatrical performances. Community life flourishes and there are a wealth of sports associations to choose from.

Åland has the most sports facilities per capita in Finland and there are active associations and clubs for virtually all interests.

6. Are you even allowed to move to Åland?

Of course you are allowed to move to Åland! Åland is a place with many nationalities. Just over 38 percent of all those living in Åland were born somewhere else. For people of working age, the number of newcomers is even higher. In Åland, a total of just over 80 different nationalities live together, speaking approximately 70 different languages. Welcome to Åland!

7. Åland lives off subsidies from Finland

No, we do not. Most taxes collected in the region are state taxes and are paid to the Finnish state. In return for the duties that the region handles on behalf of the state, the state returns funds to Åland each year through a special settlement (the settlement amount) and a tax settlement.