What is Kela?
Kela is Finland's social security institution. It handles many benefits, reimbursements and matters related to disability interpreting services. Kela does not handle everything: DVV maintains population data, Migri handles residence permits and employment services handle job search matters.
Kela is often the next step after DVV, once your personal identity code and address are registered. In some situations Kela can assess a matter earlier, but Kela's official guidance is always the source to check.
What does Kela usually handle?
Kela matters can include housing, sickness, studies, family, unemployment, rehabilitation, disability interpreting services and social security when moving to Finland.
Kela assesses every case separately. A similar life situation does not automatically mean the same decision for everyone.
How to use this Kela path
Think of this section as one route. First you understand Kela's role, then benefits and OmaKela. Only after that do you move to applying, decisions, payments or appeals.
If you have just come from the DVV path, you do not need to know every benefit immediately. It is enough to understand your situation in broad terms and check official guidance before applying.
What this article does not do
This article does not choose a benefit for you or promise a decision. Its purpose is to give the big picture so the next articles are easier to follow.
Next step
When you understand Kela's role, continue to benefits. There you will see why the right benefit depends on your life situation.
Kela benefits — next step