Helsinki COVID-19 recommendations and restrictions

Described below are some of the main health recommendations and restrictions for the Helsinki area.

UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

Face masks for persons aged 12 and over are recommended for out in the general public (transport, shops, banks, libraries, etc.), in schools, etc., in transit to coronavirus tests, when arriving in Finland from a risk area and in other situations where close contact cannot be avoided.

In Helsinki, Espoo and Vantaa, youth work outdoors is allowed for groups up to 10 people. This activity is targeted at those young people whose welfare is a concern. The idea is to offer fun activities to young people who are already congregating.

International travel should be avoided unless essential. Domestic travel permitted, subject to health and safety precautions. If arriving in Finland, a 14-day self-imposed quarantine is recommended (or get tested for COVID twice).

Upper secondary studies and vocational institutions remain remote, with some exceptions. e.g. special needs education. Primary and secondary schools in the city must stagger lunch times. School staff must wear masks. Sixth graders must also wear masks as of January 13.

FROM FEBRUARY 25 TO MARCH 14

For premises open to the public, private and public operators must arrange their space so as to allow customers to avoid close contact. If this is not possible, the premises may be closed by the authorities. This applies to indoor premises accommodating 10 or more people and outdoor premises accommodating 50 or more people.

UNTIL MARCH 31

Recreation activities for children born 2008 or later must all be implemented without close contacts. Pre-registration required, group sizes limited, contacts limited. Coaches must wear masks at all times (not just at practice). People dropping off and picking up participants cannot enter the facility.

Working from home is recommended for all tasks that can be carried out remotely. Otherwise, reduce close contact. Those working indoors along other people must wear masks, unless not required for medical reasons.

Patients at medical facilities can be visited by family starting February 22 for 15 minutes by one person per day, to be scheduled in advance. Following protection instructions is a must. Residents of elderly facilities can be visited by family and friends one at a time indoors or two at a time outdoors. From February 22, visits can last up to an hour.

UNTIL JUNE 30 

Customer premises must have possibility to clean one’s hands either by washing or with sanitizer, hygiene instructions on display, seats sufficiently distanced, enhanced cleaning of premises.

For more details on these and other recommendations and restrictions, please visit this page.