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    What are the official languages of Finland?

    Language rights under the Constitution and the Sámi Language Act.

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    Short answer

    Section 17 of the Constitution of Finland states that the national languages of Finland are Finnish and Swedish. Everyone has the right to use Finnish or Swedish before courts and other authorities. The Sámi, as an indigenous people, as well as the Roma and other groups, have the right to maintain and develop their own language and culture. The Sámi Language Act covers Inari Sámi, Skolt Sámi and North Sámi and gives the right to use Sámi with authorities in the Sámi homeland.

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    Why

    1. Section 17 of the Constitution names Finnish and Swedish as national languages.
    2. The Constitution gives the Sámi the right to maintain and develop their language.
    3. The Sámi Language Act defines the Sámi languages and rights in the Sámi homeland.

    Details

    The Constitution requires authorities to meet the needs of Finnish and Swedish speakers on an equal basis.

    Tip

    With Finnish authorities you can choose to use Finnish or Swedish.

    What may differ

    Rights to sign language and interpretation are set in separate laws.

    Common misconception

    Finnish is the only official language of Finland.

    What actually happens

    Finnish and Swedish are both national languages.

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    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Opening hours, prices and services change, so check the official sources before you go.

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