As overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), we continually seek opportunities abroad to provide a better future for ourselves and our families. One such opportunity lies in the field of healthcare, where skilled Filipinos have been making significant contributions globally.
In this article, we will delve into the inspiring journey of a Filipina who embarked on a path to become a nursing assistant in Finland. Through dedication, perseverance, and the assistance of a reputable agency, she achieved her dream of working in a foreign land while making a meaningful impact in the healthcare industry. Join us as we explore the process, challenges, and triumphs of her successful application as a nursing assistant in Finland.
Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on the personal experiences shared by the OFW in the video below. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the OFW by commenting on their video on their accounts.
Applying as a Nursing Assistant in Finland Through an Agency
The information presented in this article comes from a YouTube video from the YouTube channel named Sheena Chenitaz Vlog. In this article, she answers the following questions: How did I go to Finland? How do I find a job in Finland? The vlogger was able to find work as a nursing assistant in Finland, and she pointed out the steps she needed to take with the help of an agency. You can watch the full video in the link below:
Working in Finland offers numerous advantages for Filipinos, such as competitive salaries, excellent healthcare, high-quality education, and a safe and inclusive society. The opportunity to gain international work experience, explore a different culture, and develop professionally is highly appealing to many individuals seeking career growth and personal fulfillment.
The role of recruitment agencies like Topmake Manpower International Services cannot be underestimated. They provide valuable assistance and guidance throughout the application process, helping applicants navigate complex procedures, meet requirements, and connect with potential employers. Their expertise and network streamline the path to overseas employment and contribute to the success stories of many Filipino workers.
The journey of the vlogger in her pursuit of working as a nursing assistant in Finland began on June 3, 2022, when she decided to explore opportunities through an agency. While her initial plan was to obtain a student visa, she soon realized that it was financially challenging. Undeterred, she researched agencies offering work in Finland and came across Topmake Manpower International Services, which caught her attention.
On July 22, 2022, she eagerly attended the scheduled orientation, which took place more than a month after submitting her online application. It’s important to note that she had previously attended orientations for both student visa and work options before discovering Topmake. The orientation provided her with valuable insights into the agency’s processes and requirements, helping her make an informed decision.
Document Submission
After careful consideration, by September 7, the vlogger had decided to move forward with Topmake and proceeded to submit the necessary documents through the agency’s online platform. The agency had specific requirements, and she ensured that all the documents were in PDF format or clear photos for easy submission. The following documents were among those requested:
- Resume / CV
- High school diploma
- Caregiving NC II Certificate (Old curriculum)
- Caregiving NC II Certificate (Elderly)
- Passport information page
For college graduates or degree holders, additional documents were necessary:
- College diploma
- Official Transcript of Records (OTR)
Language Class and Location Preferences
Upon being selected by the agency and joining their free language class, the vlogger was presented with the opportunity to choose her preferred location for studying the Finnish language. Two options were available:
- Baguio City
- Quezon City
This crucial decision would set the stage for her language learning journey, ultimately preparing her for the challenges and communication requirements of her future role as a nursing assistant in Finland.
Initial Interview and Language Learning
- Initial interview conducted on September 7.
- Prepared by learning the first eight chapters of the Finnish language.
- Received a book about the Finnish language for review.
- Email confirmation of passing the interview received on September 16.
After going through orientation and confirmation processes, including studying the Finnish language, the vlogger had her initial interview on September 7. She had prepared for the interview by completing the first eight chapters of the Finnish language curriculum and received a book to further familiarize herself with the language. The exciting news came on September 16 when she received an email notifying her that she successfully passed the initial interview.
Briefing and Medical Examination
- Briefing with guardians or spouses of applicants held.
- Medical exam conducted on September 23.
In addition to the interview and language learning, there was a comprehensive briefing held for the guardians or spouses of the applicants to ensure everyone understood the agency’s processes. The vlogger completed her medical examination on September 23, completing all the necessary assessments within a single day.
Language Training and Processing Time
- Advanced language training commenced after passing the initial interview.
- Processing time for the application can take up to one year.
After passing the initial interview and the pre-medical examination, the vlogger and her fellow applicants began advanced language training to further improve their proficiency in Finnish. While processing times may vary, it is advisable to anticipate a maximum processing time of approximately one year for the entire application process.
Relaxed Attitude and Smooth Progression
- Vlogger’s relaxed attitude attributed to her existing job in the Philippines.
- She diligently fulfilled agency requirements and studied recommended materials.
The vlogger’s lack of urgency to secure a job in Finland, thanks to her current employment in the Philippines, contributed to her relaxed attitude throughout the application process. However, this did not mean she was complacent. On the contrary, she diligently provided all the necessary documents and fulfilled the agency’s requirements. She was also proactive in studying the recommended materials to ensure her smooth progression through the application process.
On December 22, 2022, the agency contacted the applicants about their visa processing. They had been learning advanced Finnish language lessons and reached unit 8 by that time, which was quite fast. On January 6, 2023, they had a contract signing in Baguio City, where the agency’s office is located.
All the required documents could be sent online, with the applicants only needing to print a copy for themselves. Surprisingly, the agency continued processing their papers even if they didn’t provide hard copies.
By February 7, 2023, one of the applicants received an email instructing them to do biometrics, which took place on February 13 in Makati City. After the biometrics, on February 17, they received positive feedback that their visa had been approved.
On February 24, the applicant received their permanent residence card through LBC, bringing them great joy and relief. It was a significant moment as it confirmed their employment in Finland, which was previously uncertain during the contract signing.
On March 15, they received a health declaration to be notarized, indicating that they were ready for deployment. They sent the notarized documents to the agency on March 16, and they were received on March 17. They also completed all the required vaccinations, including the COVID-19 vaccine provided by the agency.
On March 21, they attended an online Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS). The vlogger participated online, while some colleagues attended face-to-face sessions. On April 11, the vlogger took an exam and chose Baguio as her preferred location. Finally, on April 23, she arrived in Finland, making the process feel quick compared to the initial anticipation and uncertainty.
The vlogger’s journey, along with her fellow applicants, demonstrates the importance of careful planning, determination, and adaptability throughout the application process. Their commitment to language learning, adherence to document requirements, and active participation in necessary procedures helped them achieve their goal of working in Finland. Their experiences serve as an inspiration for other Filipinos seeking opportunities abroad.
Visa Processing and Contract Signing
- In December 22, 2022, the agency initiated visa processing.
- Prior to the initial interview, they completed the first 8 chapters of the Finnish language course.
- The orientation, confirmation, and review of a Finnish language book took some time.
- On January 6, 2023, they had the contract signing at Topmake’s office in Baguio City, La Trinidad, Benguet.
- The required documents were submitted online, with hard copies provided to Topmake.
After going through the initial stages, the agency reached out to the applicants on December 22, 2022, to initiate visa processing. At this point, they had already progressed to learning Unit 8 of the advanced Finnish language lessons, demonstrating the swift pace of their progress. On January 6, 2023, the applicants had their contract signing in the office of Topmake located in Baguio City, specifically in La Trinidad, Benguet. Although most documents were submitted online, hard copies were still printed and provided to Topmake for their records. However, it is worth noting that even without the hard copies, the vlogger’s papers were still processed successfully.
Biometrics and Visa Approval
- In December 22, 2022, the agency initiated visa processing.
- Prior to the initial interview, they completed the first 8 chapters of the Finnish language course.
- The orientation, confirmation, and review of a Finnish language book took some time.
- On January 6, 2023, they had the contract signing at Topmake’s office in Baguio City, La Trinidad, Benguet.
- The required documents were submitted online, with hard copies provided to Topmake.
By February 7, 2023, the applicants received an email instructing them to undergo biometrics, with the scheduled date set for February 13 in Makati City. They completed the biometrics process on the specified date. Following the biometrics, on February 17, the vlogger received positive feedback indicating the approval of her visa.
This was an exciting milestone in the application process, bringing her closer to her dream of working in Finland. Subsequently, on February 24, she received the permanent residence card through LBC, signifying the official approval of her visa. This moment brought immense joy and relief as it solidified her employment opportunity in Finland.
Health Declaration and Vaccination
On March 15, the applicants were provided with a copy of the health declaration, which they were then required to have notarized as part of the deployment process. The vlogger promptly had her health declaration notarized and submitted it to Topmake on March 16, which was received on March 17. As part of the preparations for deployment, she also completed all the required vaccinations, including the COVID-19 vaccine. Topmake facilitated the provision of necessary vaccines to ensure the applicants were compliant with health protocols before their departure.
Pre-Departure Orientation and Arrival in Finland
- On March 21, they attended an online Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS).
- She took an exam on April 11 and selected Baguio as her preferred location.
- She arrived in Finland on April 23, marking the successful completion of her application.
March 21 marked the date of the online Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) for the vlogger and her fellow applicants. While some of her colleagues attended the PDOS face to face, she opted for the online format, offering the convenience of participating from home. As the final stages approached, on April 11, she took an exam and selected Baguio as her preferred location. Following the exam, she swiftly proceeded with her journey, arriving in Finland on April 23.
Final Thoughts
The speed of the vlogger’s application process surprised her, considering the initial anticipation and uncertainty. Out of the original 39 applicants in her batch, only six remained by the time they reached Unit 5 of the Finnish language training. Ultimately, due to various reasons, five applicants, including the vlogger, successfully proceeded to Finland to pursue their nursing assistant careers.
The journey of a Filipina applying as a nursing assistant in Finland through an agency showcases the determination, patience, and adaptability required throughout the process. From the initial application to visa processing, language training, medical exams, and pre-departure preparations, each step played a crucial role in fulfilling her dream of working in Finland.
The vlogger’s relaxed attitude and willingness to comply with the agency’s requirements proved instrumental in ensuring a smooth and successful application. Despite the challenges and uncertainties along the way, her perseverance paid off, and she eventually found herself embarking on a new chapter in her career in the beautiful country of Finland. This inspiring story serves as a testament to the opportunities available for Filipinos seeking employment overseas and the potential for personal and professional growth that awaits them.