Työkyvyttömyys

Työkyvyttömyys is a Finnish term that refers to the state of being physically or mentally unable to perform work. The concept is central to Finland’s social security system and is distinguished from temporary ill health by criteria that require a lasting or recurring impairment.

Legal definition and assessment are set out in the Employment and Unemployment Insurance Act and the Social Insurance Act. An applicant must provide medical evidence that the impairment reduces the ability to work to a substantial degree, typically defined as a 70 % or greater loss of working capacity. The assessment is carried out by the Finnish Social Insurance Institution (Kela) using a standardized evaluation procedure. If the claim is accepted, the person receives a disability pension, which can be full, partial, or a combination with other benefits, depending on residual working capacity.

Eligibility rules differ between work‑related injury, occupational disease, and general medical conditions. In cases of occupational disease, the employer may also provide compensation. Permanent disability is considered when the impairment is expected to persist for the remainder of the individual’s working life or until death.

The policy aims to provide financial security and enable continued participation in society as much as possible. It is part of Finland’s broader solidarity welfare system, and its effectiveness and fairness are continuously reviewed in the public sector.