Introduction: Finland borders the Baltic Sea, Gulf of Bothnia, and Gulf of Finland, between Sweden and Russia. It is heavily forested and contains thousands of lakes, numerous rivers, and extensive areas of marshland.

Official Name: Republic of Finland
Area: 337,030 sq km (130,127 sq miles)
Population: 5,189,000
Continent: Europe
Density per square mile: 40
Capital City: Helsinki
Religions: 88% Lutheran Christians, 1% are Orthodox.

Language: Finnish & Swedish
Government: Democratic Republic
Member of EU: Yes

Currency: Euro
GDP: $136.2 billion
GDP Per Head: $26,200

Natural Resources: Copper, timber,zinc, iron ore & silver .
Land Use: Arable Land 7%
Agriculture: barley, wheat, sugar beets, potatoes; dairy cattle; fish.
Industry: Metals and engineering equipment, telecommunications, timber and paper products.

Tourism: Its unspoilt natural environment is the perfect setting for all kinds of activity, whether you are seeking excitement or relaxation. Finland has a vibrant cultural life, with a busy calendar of festivals and events to suit every taste.

Natural Hazards: None
Health Risks: None

Climate: Finland has a temperate climate with continental winds bringing cold spells in winter and heat waves in summer. Rainfall occurs all year round and the average annual rainfall varies from 20 inches to 28 inches. In the north most of it falls as snow. Average temperature ranges in Helsinki are from -9 to -4 degrees Celsius in February to 12 to 23 degrees Celsius in July.

Time: GMT/UTC + 2 hours
National Days: December 6

Visas: Finland is a member of the European Union. If you are a British national you can stay as a visitor for three months. Visas are not required by most other foreign nationals either.

British Embassy Details