Väestörekisteri

Väestörekisteri is Finland’s national population register and the central information system that contains official records of residents. It is maintained by the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (Digi- ja väestötietovirasto). The register includes core personal data such as full legal name, date of birth, sex, and the personal identity code, as well as citizenship, civil status, current and historical addresses, family relationships, and life events like births and deaths. The data may also cover related identifiers used in public services.

The Väestörekisteri serves as the primary source for identification and for delivering public services. Public authorities and other entities with a lawful basis access the information to verify identities, determine eligibility for benefits, plan and administer services, and manage tax, social security, healthcare, and municipal affairs. Data is shared with other authorities under Finnish law and, in certain cases, with private sector actors that have a statutory basis to use the information—for example in the provision of e-services or financial services.

Individuals have rights regarding their records. They can request access to their own information and obtain official extracts, and they can request corrections if data are inaccurate. They may exercise data protection rights under applicable laws, including access, rectification, and restriction of processing. The Väestörekisteri is subject to privacy safeguards, data protection regulations, and oversight to ensure security and proper use. The registry underpins many Finnish digital and administrative services, including the assignment and use of the personal identity code across government and local authorities.