FINLAND

Compiled from the January 2005 Background Note and supplemented with additional information from the State Department and the editors of this volume. See the introduction to this set for explanatory notes.

Official Name:
Republic of Finland

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PROFILE

Geography

Area: 337,113 sq. km. (130,160 sq. mi.); about the size of New England, New Jersey, and New York combined.

Cities: Capital—Helsinki (pop. 560,500). Other cities—Espoo (213,000), Tampere (195,500), Vantaa (178,500), Turku (173,000).

Terrain: Low but hilly, more than 70% forested, with more than 60,000 lakes.

Climate: Northern temperate.

People

Nationality: Noun—Finn(s). Adjective—Finnish.

Population: 5.2 million.

Population growth rate: 0.3%.

Ethnic groups: Finns, Swedes, Lapps, Sami, Roma, Tatars.

Religions: Lutheran 89%, Orthodox 1%.

Languages: Finnish 93%, Swedish 6% (both official); small Lapp and Russian-speaking minorities.

Education: Years compulsory—9. Attendance—almost 100%. Literacy—almost 100%.

Health: Infant mortality rate—3.8/1,000. Life expectancy—males 74 yrs., females 81 yrs.

Work force: (2.6 million; of which 2.3 million are employed) Public services—32%; industry—21%; commerce—15%; finance, insurance, and business services—13%; agriculture and forestry—6%; transport and communications—7%; construction—6%.

Government

Type: Constitutional republic.

Constitution: July 17, 1919.

Independence: December 6, 1917.

Branches: Executive—president (chief of state), prime minister (head of government), Council of State (cabinet). Legislative—unicameral parliament. Judicial—Supreme Court, regional appellate courts, local courts.

Administrative subdivisions: Six provinces, provincial self-rule for the Aland Islands.

Political parties: Social Democratic Party, Center Party, National Coalition (Conservative) Party, Leftist Alliance, Swedish People's Party, Green Party.

Suffrage: Universal at 18.

Economy (2003)

GDP: $177.3 billion (EUR 142.5 billion).

GDP growth rate: 2.0%.

Per capita income: $27,300 (EUR 22,000).

Inflation rate: 1.1%.

Natural resources: Forests, minerals (copper, zinc, iron), farmland.

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting: (3.5% of GDP) Products—meat (pork and beef), grain (wheat, rye, barley, oats), dairy products, potatoes, rapeseed.

Industry: (25.7% of GDP) Types—metal (including electronics and electrical equipment) and engineering, forest products, chemicals, shipbuilding, foodstuffs, textiles.

Trade: Exports—$57.7 billion. Major markets—EU 53%, U.S. 8.1%, Russia 7.5%, China 2.8%. Imports—$45.6 billion. Major suppliers—EU 55%, Russia 11.9%, U.S. 4.7%, China 4.3%.

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HISTORICAL HIGHLIGHTS

The origins of the Finnish people are still a matter of conjecture, although many scholars argue that their original home was in what is now west-central Siberia. The Finns arrived in their present territory thousands of years ago, pushing the indigenous Lapps into the more remote northern regions. Finnish and Lappish—the language of Finland's small Lapp minority—both are Finno-Ugric languages and are in the Uralic rather than the Indo-European family.

Finland's nearly 700-year association with the Kingdom of Sweden began in 1154 with the introduction of Christianity by Sweden's King Eric. During the ensuing centuries, Finland played an important role in the political life of the Swedish-Finnish realm, and Finnish soldiers often predominated in Swedish armies. Finns also formed a significant proportion of the first "Swedish" settlers in 17th century America.

Following Finland's incorporation into Sweden in the 12th century, Swedish became the dominant language, although Finnish recovered its predominance after a 19th-century resurgence of Finnish nationalism. Publication in 1835 of the Finnish national epic, The Kalevala—a collection of traditional myths and legends—first stirred the nationalism that later led to Finland's independence from Russia.

In 1809, Finland was conquered by the armies of Czar Alexander I and thereafter remained an autonomous grand duchy connected with the Russian Empire until the end of 1917. On December 6, 1917, shortly after the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia, Finland declared its independence. In 1918, the country experienced a brief but bitter civil war that colored domestic politics for many years. During World War II, Finland fought the Soviet Union twice—in the Winter War of 1939-40 and again in the Continuation War of 1941-44. This was followed by the Lapland War of 1944-45, when Finland fought against the Germans as they withdrew their forces from northern Finland.

Treaties signed in 1947 and 1948 with the Soviet Union included obligations and restraints on Finland visa-vis the U.S.S.R. as well as territorial concessions by Finland; both have been abrogated by Finland since the 1991 dissolution of the Soviet Union.

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GOVERNMENT AND POLITICAL CONDITIONS

Finland has a mixed presidential/parliamentary system with executive powers divided between the president, who has primary responsibility for national security and foreign affairs, and the prime minister, who has primary responsibility for all other areas. Constitutional changes made in the late 1980s strengthened the prime minister—who must enjoy the confidence of the parliament (Eduskunta)—at the expense of the president. Finland's 1995 accession to the European Union (EU) has blurred the line between foreign and domestic policy; the respective roles of the president and prime minister are evolving, and plans are under consideration to rewrite the constitution to clarify these and other issues. For instance, the prime minister has now been given responsibility for EU relations.

Finns enjoy individual and political freedoms, and suffrage is universal at 18. The country's population is relatively ethnically homogeneous. Immigration to Finland has significantly increased over the past decade, although the foreign-born population, estimated at only 2% of the total population, is still much lower than in any other EU country. Few tensions exist between the Finnish-speaking majority and the Swedish-speaking minority.

President and cabinet. Elected for a 6-year term, the president:

• Handles foreign policy, except for certain international agreements and decisions of peace or war, which must be submitted to parliament, and EU relations, which are handled by the prime minister;
• Is commander in chief of the armed forces and has wide decree and appointive powers;
• May initiate legislation, block legislation by pocket veto, and call extraordinary parliamentary sessions; and
• Appoints the prime minister and the rest of the cabinet (Council of State). The Council of State is made up of the prime minister and ministers for the various departments of the central government as well as an exofficio member, the Chancellor of Justice. Ministers are not obliged to be members of the Eduskunta and need not be formally identified with any political party.

Parliament. Constitutionally, the 200-member, unicameral Eduskunta is the supreme authority in Finland. It may alter the constitution, bring about the resignation of the Council of State, and override presidential vetoes; its acts are not subject to judicial review. Legislation may be initiated by the president, the Council of State, or one of the Eduskunta members.

The Eduskunta is elected on the basis of proportional representation. All persons 18 or older, except military personnel on active duty and a few high judicial officials, are eligible for election. The regular parliamentary term is 4 years; however, the president may dissolve the Eduskunta and order new elections at the request of the prime minister and after consulting the speaker of parliament.

Judicial system. The judicial system is divided between courts with regular civil and criminal jurisdiction and special courts with responsibility for litigation between the public and the administrative organs of the state. Finnish law is codified. Although there is no writ of habeas corpus or bail, the maximum period of pretrial detention has been reduced to 4 days. The Finnish court system consists of local courts, regional appellate courts, and a Supreme Court.

Administrative divisions. Finland has five provinces and the self-ruled province of the Aland Islands. Below the provincial level, the country is divided into cities, townships, and communes administered by municipal and communal councils elected by proportional representation once every 4 years.

At the provincial level, the five mainland provinces are administered by provincial boards composed of civil servants, each headed by a governor. The boards are responsible to the Ministry of the Interior and play a supervisory and coordinating role within the provinces.

The island province of Aland is located near the 60th parallel between Sweden and Finland. It enjoys local autonomy and demilitarized status by virtue of an international convention of 1921, implemented most recently by the Act on Aland Self-Government of 1951. The islands are further distinguished by the fact that they are entirely Swedish-speaking. Government is vested in the provincial council, which consists of 30 delegates elected directly by Aland's citizens.

Military. Finland's defense forces consist of 35,000 persons in uniform (26,000 army; 5,000 navy; and 4,000 air force); the country's defense budget equals about 1.6% of GDP. There is universal male conscription under which all men serve from six to 12 months. As of 1995, women were permitted to serve as volunteers. A reserve force ensures that Finland can field 400,000 trained military personnel in case of need.

Political parties. Finland's proportional representation system encourages a multitude of political parties and has resulted in many coalition governments. Political activity by communists was legalized in 1944, and although four major parties have dominated the postwar political arena, none now has a majority position. The Center Party (Keskusta), traditionally representing rural interests, gained a slight plurality in Finland's parliament in the general election of March 2003, narrowly defeating the ruling Social Democratic Party (SDP) by a 24.7% to 24.5% margin. The Center then formed a three-party governing coalition with the SDP and the Swedish People's Party. The Green Party, which had withdrawn from the government in spring 2002 in protest to the government decision to approve building a fifth nuclear reactor, remained in the opposition, as did the National Coalition Party (conservatives). The National Coalition leads the opposition in parliament. The Left Alliance, a combination of

socialists left of the SDP and a number of former communists, maintains representation in parliament but is not a significant factor in most policy decisions.

The Center Party's leader, Anneli Jäätteenmäki, became Finland's first female prime minister in April 2003. However, she resigned amid a scandal over the leak of classified materials 2 months after taking office. She was replaced as prime minister by the Center Party's new chairman, Matti Vanhanen.

Principal Government Officials

Last Updated: 7/14/04

President: Halonen, Tarja
Prime Minister: Vanhanen, Matti Taneli
Dep. Prime Min.: Kalliomaki, Antti
Min. of Agriculture & Forestry: Korkeaoja, Juha
Min. of Culture: Karpela, Tanja
Min. of Defense: Kaariainen, Seppo
Min. of Education: Haatainen, Tuula
Min. of the Environment & Nordic Cooperation: Enestam, Jan-Erik
Min. of Finance: Kalliomaki, Antti
Min. responsible for certain issues in the Ministry of Finance: Wideroos, Ulla-Maj
Min. of Foreign Affairs: Tuomioja, Erkki
Min. of Foreign Trade & Development: Lehtomaki, Paula
Min. of Health & Social Services: Hyssala, Liisa
Min. of Interior: Rajamaki, Kari
Min. of Justice: Koskinen, Johannes
Min. of Labor: Filatov, Tarja
Min. of Regional & Municipal Affairs: Manninen, Hannes
Min. of Social Affairs & Health: Monkare, Sinikka
Min. of Trade & Industry: Pekkarinen, Mauri
Min. of Transport & Communications: Luhtanen, Leena
Governor, Bank of Finland: Liikanen, Erkki
Ambassador to the US: Valtasaari, Jukka
Permanent Representative to the UN, New York: Rasi, Satu Marjatta

Finland's embassy in the United States is located at 3301 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20008; tel: 202-298-5800; fax: 202-298-6030.

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ECONOMY

Finland has an industrial economy based on abundant forest resources, capital investments, and high technology. Traditionally, Finland has been a net importer of capital to finance industrial growth; in recent years it has become a net exporter of capital. Finland has one of the best performing economies in the EU and Europe.

The Finnish economy has made enormous strides since the severe recession of the early 1990s. Finland successfully joined the euro zone and has outperformed euro-area partners in terms of economic growth and public finance. Even under the difficult circumstances of the last few years, the Finnish economy has performed reasonably well—though the pace of activity has slowed considerably and remains subject to volatility. Finnish GDP growth slowed sharply from 5.1% in 2000 to 1.2% in 2001, largely as a result of a collapse in exports. The economy picked up slightly in 2002, when GDP growth amounted to 2.2% and hovered around 2.0% in 2003. The first quarter of 2004 was marked by modest growth. Despite initially weak production, it is fore-cast that exports will expand due to increased international economic growth. Domestically, the government has cut taxes and tempered inflation in order to incite private consumption to prompt a growth in GDP. Growth is forecast at 2.5% in 2004 and 2.75% in 2005.

Unemployment has decreased significantly since 1994; however, the 9.2% unemployment rate (2003) remains above the EU average. A relatively inflexible labor market and high employer-paid social security taxes hamper growth in employment. However, the government expects the unemployment to drop to 8.8% by the end of 2004 and 8.5% in 2005.

Exports of goods and services contribute 33% of Finland's GDP. Metals and engineering (including electronics) and timber (including pulp and paper) are Finland's main industries. The United States is Finland's most important trading partner outside of Europe. With a 4.7% share of imports (2003), the United States is Finland's sixth-largest supplier after Germany, Russia, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and France. The total value of U.S. exports to Finland in 2003 was $2.1 billion. Major exports from the United States to Finland continue to be machinery, telecommunications equipment and parts, aircraft and aircraft parts, computers, peripherals and software, electronic components, chemicals, medical equipment, and some agricultural products. The primary competition for American companies comes from European suppliers, especially German, Swedish, and British. The main export items from Finland to the United States are ships and boats, paper and paperboard, refined petroleum products, telecommunications equipment and parts, and automobiles. In 2003, the United States was Finland's fourth-largest customer after Germany (11.8%) and Sweden (9.9%) with an export share of 8.1%, or $4.7 billion. However, trade is only part of the totality: the 10 biggest Finnish companies in the United States have a combined turnover that is three times the value of Finland's total exports to the United States. About 2% of the Finnish GDP comes from exports to the United States.

Except for timber and several minerals, Finland depends on imported raw materials, energy, and some components for its manufactured products. Farms tend to be small, but farmers own sizable timber stands that are harvested for supplementary income in winter. The country's main agricultural products are dairy, meat, and grains. Finland's EU accession has accelerated the process of restructuring and downsizing of this sector.

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FOREIGN RELATIONS

Finland's basic foreign policy goal from the end of the Continuation War with the U.S.S.R. in 1944 until 1991 was to avoid great-power conflicts and to build mutual confidence with the Soviet Union. Although the country was culturally, socially, and politically Western, Finns realized they must live in peace with the U.S.S.R. and take no action that might be interpreted as a security threat. The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 opened up dramatic new possibilities for Finland and has resulted in the Finns actively seeking greater participation in Western political and economic structures. Finland joined the European Union in 1995.

Relations With the Soviet Union and With Russia

The principal architect of the post-1944 foreign policy of neutrality was J.K. Paasikivi, who was President from 1946 to 1956. Urho Kekkonen, President from 1956 until 1981, further developed this policy, stressing that Finland should be an active rather than a passive neutral. This policy is now popularly known as the "Paasikivi-Kekkonen Line."

Finland and the U.S.S.R. signed a peace treaty at Paris in February 1947 limiting the size of Finland's defense forces and providing for the cession to the Soviet Union of the Petsamo area on the Arctic coast, the Karelian Isthmus in southeastern Finland, and other territory along the former eastern border. Another provision, terminated in 1956, leased the Porkkala area near Helsinki to the U.S.S.R. for use as a naval base and gave free access to this area across Finnish territory.

The 1947 treaty also called for Finland to pay to the Soviet Union reparations of 300 million gold dollars (amounting to an estimated $570 million in 1952, the year the payments ended). Although an ally of the Soviet Union in World War II, the United States was not a signatory to this treaty because it had not been at war with Finland.

In April 1948, Finland signed an Agreement of Friendship, Cooperation, and Mutual Assistance with the Soviet Union. Under this mutual assistance pact, Finland was obligated—with the aid of the Soviet Union, if necessary—to resist armed attacks by Germany or its allies against Finland or against the U.S.S.R. through Finland. At the same time, the agreement recognized Finland's desire to remain outside great-power conflicts. This agreement was renewed for 20 years in 1955, in 1970, and again in 1983 to the year 2003, although the subsequent dissolution of the Soviet Union led to the agreement's abrogation.

The Finns responded cautiously in 1990-91 to the decline of Soviet power and the U.S.S.R.'s subsequent dissolution. They unilaterally abrogated restrictions imposed by the 1947 and 1948 treaties, joined in voicing Nordic concern over the coup against Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, and gave increasing unofficial encouragement to Baltic independence.

At the same time, by replacing the Soviet-Finnish mutual assistance pact with treaties on general cooperation and trade, Finns put themselves on an equal footing while retaining a friendly bilateral relationship. Finland now is boosting cross-border commercial ties and touting its potential as a commercial gateway to Russia. It has reassured Russia that it will not raise claims for Finnish territory seized by the U.S.S.R. and continues to reaffirm the importance of good bilateral relations.

Multilateral Relations

Finnish foreign policy emphasizes its participation in multilateral organizations. Finland joined the United Nations in 1955 and the EU in 1995. As noted, the country also is a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) Partnership for Peace as well as a member in the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council.

Finland is well represented in the UN civil service in proportion to its population and belongs to several of its specialized and related agencies. Finnish troops have participated in UN peacekeeping activities since 1956, and the Finns continue to be one of the largest per capita contributors of peacekeepers in the world. Finland is an active participant in the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and in early 1995 assumed the co-chairmanship of the OSCE's Minsk Group on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Cooperation with the other Scandinavian countries also is important to Finland, and it has been a member of the Nordic Council since 1955. Under the council's auspices, the Nordic countries have created a common labor market and have abolished immigration controls among themselves. The council also serves to coordinate social and cultural policies of the participating countries and has promoted increased cooperation in many fields.

In addition to the organizations already mentioned, Finland became a member of the following organizations: Bank for International Settlements, 1930; International Monetary Fund, 1948; International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, 1948; General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), 1950; International Finance Corporation, 1956; International Development Association, 1960; European Free Trade Association, 1961; Asian Development Bank, 1966; Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, 1969; Inter-American Development Bank, 1977; African Development Bank, 1982; Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency, 1988; the Council of Europe, 1989; European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in Central and Eastern Europe, 1991; World Trade Organization, 1995; and INTELSAT, 1999. Finland entered Stage Three of EMU (the European Monetary Union) in 1999. All the Nordic countries, including Finland, joined the Schengen area in March 2001.

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U.S.-FINLAND RELATIONS

Relations between the United States and Finland are warm. Some 200,000 U.S. citizens visit Finland annually, and about 5,000 U.S. citizens are resident there. The United States has an educational exchange program in Finland which is comparatively large for a west European country of Finland's size. It is financed in part from a trust fund established in 1976 from Finland's final repayment of a U.S. loan made in the aftermath of World War I.

Finland is bordered on the east by Russia and, as one of the former Soviet Union's neighbors, has been of particular interest and importance to the United States both during the Cold War and in its aftermath. Before the U.S.S.R. dissolved in 1991, longstanding U.S. policy was to support Finnish neutrality while maintaining and reinforcing Finland's historic, cultural, and economic ties with the West. The United States has welcomed Finland's increased participation since 1991 in Western economic and political structures.

Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Finland has moved steadily toward integration into Western institutions and abandoned its formal policy of neutrality, which has been recast as a policy of military nonalliance coupled with the maintenance of a credible, independent defense. Finland's 1994 decision to buy 64 F-18 fighter planes from the United States signaled the abandonment of the country's policy of balanced arms purchases from East and West. The final aircraft rolled off the assembly line in August 2000.

In 1994, Finland joined NATO's Partnership for Peace; the country also is an observer in the North Atlantic Cooperation Council. Finland became a full member of the EU in January 1995, at the same time acquiring observer status in the Western European Union.

Finland generally welcomes foreign investment. Areas of particular interest for U.S. investors are specialized high-tech companies and investments that take advantage of Finland's position as a gateway to Russia and the Baltic countries.

Principal U.S. Embassy Officials

HELSINKI (E) Address: Itainen Puistotie 14, Helsinki; APO/FPO: PSC 78, Box H, APO AE 09723; Phone: 358-9-616-250; Fax: +358-9-6162-5135; Workweek: Monday-Friday 0830-1700; Website: www.usembassy.fi

AMB:	Earle I. Mack
DCM:	Robert Weisberg
POL:	John Hall
CON:	Edward Birsner
MGT:	Charles Werderman
AGR:	Lana Bennett-resident in Stockholm
CLO:	Gianna Schlaefer
DAO:	Col. Robert Byrd, DATT
ECO:	John Clarkson
FAA/CASLO:	Joseph Teixera, res. London
FCS:	Robert Peaslee
GSO:	Richard Johnson
ICASS Chair:	John Clarkson
IMO:	Marcia Henke
IPO:	Maurio Lopez
IRS:	James Beene, London
ISO:	Marcia Henke
ISSO:	Marcia Henke
LAB:	David Schlaefer
PAO:	Victoria Middleton
RSO:	Gerry Oman
Last Updated: 11/15/2004

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TRAVEL

Consular Information Sheet

October 14, 2004

Country Description: Finland is a highly developed democracy with a modern economy. It is a member of the European Union. Tourist facilities are widely available.

Entry/Exit Requirements: A passport is required. A visa is not required for tourist or business stays of up to 90 days. For additional information concerning entry requirements, travelers can contact the Embassy of Finland at 3301 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20008, tel: (202) 298-5800, or the Finnish Consulates General in Los Angeles or New York. Additional information for these offices is available via the Internet at http://www.finland.org.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.

The U.S. Embassy in Helsinki cannot assist private U.S. citizens in obtaining any necessary visas for neighboring countries, including Russia and the former Soviet Union. In particular, U.S. citizens who reside in these countries and who plan to renew their visas or residence permits in Finland should keep this in mind when making their plans.

Dual Nationality: In addition to being subject to all Finnish laws affecting U.S. citizens, dual nationals may also be subject to other laws that impose special obligations on Finnish citizens. For additional information, see the Consular Affairs home page on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov for our Dual Nationality flyer.

Safety and Security: Finland remains largely free of terrorist incidents. However, like other countries in the Schengen area, Finland's open borders with its Western European neighbors allow the possibility of terrorist groups entering/exiting the country with anonymity. Elements of organized crime groups operating in the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe are present in Finland, but these do not represent a specific danger to U.S. citizen residents or tourists.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings, and Public Announcements can be found. Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-317-472-2328. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Crime: Although the crime rate in Finland is low compared to the U.S. and most European countries, it has increased in recent years. However, Finland remains a relatively safe environment. Americans visiting Finland are seldom victims of crime, but visitors should not be complacent regarding personal safety or the protection of valuables. The same precautions employed in the U.S. should be followed in Finland. Finnish police services are excellent; however, some police officers speak little English. They are also few in number relative to the size of the population. Due to the low crime rate, which in turn has led to an under funding of police operations, Finland has one of the lowest numbers of police of any European nation. Outside of key sites in major urban centers, they rarely project a visible presence; consequently, response times to crisis situations may be unpredictable. The telephone number for police and other emergency services throughout Finland is 112. All forms of public transportation are considered safe. Street crimes, such as muggings and pickpocketing, remain relatively uncommon, but do occur.

The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.

U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlet is available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.gpoaccess.gov, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.

Medical Facilities: In Finland, medical facilities and their staff are as a rule excellent and a re widely available for emergency services. English is commonly spoken by Finnish medical personnel. Helsinki is a frequent medical evacuation point for emergency cases from the countries of the former Soviet Union. The public hospital system and many private hospitals honor foreign credit cards.

Medical Insurance: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas including emergency services such as medical evacuations.

When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that a medical evacuation to the U.S. may cost well in excess of $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure, Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page.

Other Health Information: Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via the CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization's website at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.

Traffic Safety and Road Conditions: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Finland is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Safety of Public Transportation: Excellent
Urban Road Condition/Maintenance: Excellent
Rural Road Condition/Maintenance: Excellent
Availability of Roadside Assistance: Excellent

Finland has an extensive network of highways throughout the country, as well as excellent public transportation services. Travelers should be aware that drunk-driving laws are strict, and acceptable blood alcohol levels are much lower in Finland than in the U.S. Police strictly enforce all traffic laws and institute random roadside Breathalyzer tests. Those drivers who register a.05 or above alcohol content are subject to immediate arrest. Drivers should be aware that regulations and traffic signs differ significantly from those in the U.S. Visitors should be familiar with both prior to operating a vehicle in Finland. Driving in Finland during the winter months can be hazardous. Daylight hours are very short and one should be comfortable with driving in darkness. Icy road conditions are common. If driving in Finland, the vehicle must be winterized with studded snow tires, and engine heaters are strongly recommended. When driving at night, drivers must be alert to moose wandering onto major roadways. There have been incidents of moose being struck by vehicles, causing severe damage to the vehicle and injury, sometimes fatal, to the occupants.

For additional general information about road safety, including links to foreign government sites, see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov/travel/abroad_roadsafety.html. For specific information concerning Finnish driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, contact the Finland National Tourist Organization offices in New York via the Internet at http://www.mek.fi. The e-mail address is med@mek.fi. For specific real-time updates on road conditions in Finland, see the Finnish Road Administration's travel and traffic information web page at http://www.finnra.fi/alk/english/.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Finland's Civil Aviation Authority as Category 1—in compliance with international aviation safety standards for oversight of Finland's air carrier operations. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's Internet website http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/index.cfm.

Customs Regulations: Finnish customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Finland of certain items such as alcohol, firearms, some medications, plant or animal matter, or live animals and plants. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of Finland in Washington or one of Finland's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements. In addition, the Finnish Customs office has a website, http://www.tulli.fi/english/index.html, where useful information is available. In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products are illegal and bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines. A current list of those countries with serious problems in this regard can be found at www.ustr.gov/reports/2003/special301.htm.

Finland's customs authorities encourage the use of an ATA (Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission) Carnet for the temporary admission of professional equipment, commercial samples, and/or goods for exhibitions and fair purposes. ATA Carnet Headquarters, located at the U.S. Council for International Business, 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, issues and guarantees the ATA Carnet in the United States. For additional information call 212-354-4480, send an e-mail to atacarnet@uscib.org, or visit www.uscib.org for details.

Criminal Penalties: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Finland's laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Finland are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Under the PROTECT Act of April 2003, it is a crime, prosecutable in the United States, for a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien, to engage in illicit sexual conduct in a foreign country with a person under the age of 18, whether or not the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident alien intended to engage in such illicit sexual conduct prior to going abroad. For purposes of the PROTECT Act, illicit sexual conduct includes any commercial sex act in a foreign country with a person under the age of 18. The law defines a commercial sex act as any sex act, on account of which anything of value is given to or received by a person under the age of 18.

Under the Protection of Children from Sexual Predators Act of 1998, it is a crime to use the mail or any facility of interstate or foreign commerce, including the Internet, to transmit information about a minor under the age of 16 for criminal sexual purposes that include, among other things, the production of child pornography. This same law makes it a crime to use any facility of interstate or foreign commerce, including the Internet, to transport obscene materials to minors under the age of 16.

Special Circumstances: Commercial and financial transactions in Finland are increasingly automated and on-line. Cash is almost always acceptable (the currency is the euro) but most major credit cards are widely recognized. ATM machines are very common and many U.S.-issued bank-cards are compatible with them. However, for residents, bill-paying outside of retail establishments (i.e., utilities and other recurring expenses) is done more and more frequently via Internet; bank checks are rarely used. Checks drawn on a U.S. bank are of little use in Finland.

Children's Issues: For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, please refer to our Internet site at http://travel.state.gov/family/index.html or telephone Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747. This number is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those calling from overseas, may obtain information and assistance during these hours by calling 1-317-472-2328.

Registration/Embassy Location: Americans living or traveling in Finland are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Finland. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. The U.S. Embassy is located at Itainen Puistotie 14B. The telephone number for the American Citizen Services unit is 358-9-616-25-701, 0830 to 1700 Monday to Friday (after hours, 358-9-616-25-0); the fax number is 358-9-616-25-800; e-mail: Helsinki-ACS@state.gov. The address of the Embassy's Internet home page is http://www.usembassy.fi.

International Adoption

January 2005

The information below has been edited from a report of the State Department Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Overseas Citizens Services. For more information, please read the International Adoption section of this book and review current reports online at www.travel.state.gov/family.

Disclaimer: The information in this circular relating to the legal requirements of specific foreign countries is provided for general information only. Questions involving interpretation of specific foreign laws should be addressed to foreign legal counsel.

Please Note: Finnish law does not allow for any foreigner to adopt a Finnish child. However, the U.S. Embassy in Finland deals with Estonian children adopted by foreigners.

Finland Adoption Authority: The government office responsible for adoptions in Finland is the Ministry of Social Affairs (MSA).

Age and Civil Status Requirements: A prospective adoptive parent must be at least 25 years old and a permanent resident of Finland in order to adopt a child from Finland. The prospective parent is not permitted to take the child out of the country to live. The prospective parent can be married, single, divorced or widowed, but couples in common law marriages are not eligible to adopt.

Adoption Agencies and Attorneys: There are currently no adoption agencies or attorneys in Finland that handle international adoptions.

Doctors: The U.S. Embassy maintains current lists of doctors and sources for medicines, should either you or your child experience health problems while in Finland.

Medical examination: Each immigrant visa applicant must have a medical examination before coming to his/her final visa interview. This examination must be done in Finland by one of the Embassy panel physicians. Please contact the panel physician directly to schedule the medical appointment and lab work for your adoptive child. If you wish, the Consulate immigration assistant can schedule the doctor's appointment on your behalf. For further information, see Medical Examination in Finland heading.

Finland Documentary Requirements: All documents not in Finnish must be accompanied by certified English translations. Translation must be certified by a competent translator, and sworn to before a Notary Public. It is also possible to translate foreign documents in Finland. The Helsinki Consulate will be happy to refer you to a licensed translator. The following documents are required concerning the adoptive child:

• Birth certificate you will need to provide two different foreign birth certificates for the orphan. The first one must show the child's original name when baptized (before the adoption). The second one must show the child's name after the adoption, and list the adoptive parents as the child's parents.
• Evidence that the child has been abandoned (by both natural parents if both are still living)
• Evidence of the death of the natural parents (s)
• Written statement from natural parent (s) in which he/she states that he/she is not capable of providing proper care for the child, which child he/she unconditionally releases for adoption and emigration.
• Local Government Decree making the child a ward of the competent state body the decree must state that the competent legal authority in the child's country of residence has made the child their ward. The decree should show that the surviving parent (s) have shown a clear refusal to assume the natural and legal obligations for the child's care and welfare, have abandoned the child permanently (e.g. to an orphanage), and are not contributing or attempting to contribute support as a reflection of a continuing family tie to the child.
• All other evidence of abandonment by the natural parent (s) is considered secondary. In cases where only secondary evidence of abandonment is presented, the petition must be referred to the U.S. Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services in the Department of Homeland Security office in Frankfurt for adjudication. If this is necessary, the issuance of your adoptive child's U.S. immigrant visa will be considerably delayed. If the child is not legally classifiable as an orphan under U.S. Immigration Law, the petition will be denied. If the petition is denied, the denial may be appealed.
• Evidence that the adoption has been made in accordance with local law in the child's country of residence
• Decision of the responsible administrative and legal body permitting the adoption of the child by foreign citizens.
• Certificate of adoption showing the child's original name, child's name after adoption, and the names of the adoptive parents.

The documents needed to present to the Helsinki Consulate if they are not in possession of your original BCIS approved I-600A petition:

• Proof of your U.S. citizenship (e.g. passport)
• Original or notarized photocopy of the adoptive parents marriage certificate
• Original or notarized photocopy of any divorce decrees
• Approved home study conducted by a competent social agency in the U.S.
• Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)

U.S. Immigration Requirements: A Finnish child adopted by an U.S. citizen must obtain an immigrant visa before he or she can enter the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident. Please see the International Adoption section of this book for more details and review current reports online at travel.state.gov/family

What To Do After Arriving in Finland: Go to the U.S. Embassy consular section as soon as possible, after you arrive in Finland. An immigration assistant will provide you with certain forms to complete, and will double check your documents to see that everything is in order prior to your child's final interview with the Consul.

Medical Examination in Finland: Once you are in Finland, your adoptive child must undergo a complete medical examination. This examination must be conducted in Helsinki by one of the embassy panel physicians.

Photos: The U.S. Embassy in Helsinki needs three photographs for each adopted infant. They recommend that you take the photographs in Finland, as it might be difficult to obtain color photographs with the proper specifications in Estonia

Visas to Finland: U.S. citizens coming to Finland on business or holiday and staying less than 90 days do not require Finnish visas. Each person, regardless of age, who carries a Russian or an Estonian alien passport will need a visa to enter Finland. If you experience any problems obtaining a Finnish visa for your adoptive child, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or the U.S. Embassy in Helsinki for assistance.

How long one should stay in Finland? As each adoption case is an individual case, we cannot predict precisely how long you will need to stay in Finland. Please be assured that the consular section immigration unit will process each adoption case as expeditiously as possible consistent with U.S. immigration law.

Finnish Embassy (and Consulates) in the United States:
Embassy of Finland
3301 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20008
Phone: 202-298-5800

Finland also has Consulates in New York, New York, and Los Angeles, California.

Fees: The total fee for an immigrant visa is $325 in U.S. currency, covering the application fee of $260.00 and the issuance fee of $65.00. You may pay the equivalent in local currency at the currency at the current Embassy consular exchange rate. The consulate also accepts traveler's checks. Please note that the Embassy cashier cannot accept personal checks.

The medical examination fee for a child under the age of 15 is approximately $120.00. The fee may be paid in Finnish marks or with a major credit card. The visa credit card is accepted by all of their physicians.

Questions: Specific questions regarding adoption in Finland may be addressed to the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Helsinki. You may also contact the Office of Children's Issues, SA-29, 2201 C Street, NW, U.S. Department of State, Washington, DC 20520-2818, Tel: 1-888-407-4747 with specific questions.