If you go to a construction site in Finland, you’ll notice every worker wears an ID badge. This is a Valtti card, a standardised and legally required identification card that plays a crucial role in improving transparency, safety, and compliance across the Finnish construction industry.

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What is a Valtti Card?

A Valtti card is a form of personal identification primarily used in Finland’s construction sector. It serves two key purposes:

1. Official identification on construction sites
2. Proof of registration in the Finnish Tax Administration’s tax number register

In addition to these two aspects, many modern construction sites in Finland use them for access control, time tracking systems and workforce reporting tools.

The system was introduced following legislative changes aimed at combating the grey economy in the construction industry to tackle such issues as undeclared work, tax evasion and illegal labour. Since 2012, all individuals working on shared construction sites in Finland must have:

• A personal tax number and
• A visible photo ID card displaying that tax number

The Valtti card was developed as a standardised, practical solution to meet these requirements and it has greatly increased transparency within the construction sector since its introduction.

A Valtti card will include such details as:

• The worker’s full name
• A photograph
• The tax number
• The employer’s name
• The company’s Business ID
• Card validity information
• A barcode or chip for electronic access control (if enabled)

The card clearly shows whether the individual is an employee, self-employed, or working in another capacity on-site.

Because the tax number must be publicly registered, the Valtti card also confirms that the individual is legally authorised to work on construction sites in Finland.

Anyone working on a shared construction site must carry a visible ID that includes their tax number and this applies regardless of nationality.

Foreign workers must first obtain a Finnish tax number before applying for a Valtti card.

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How Does the Application Process Work?

The process involves:

• Obtaining a Finnish tax number – this is done through the Finnish Tax Administration. The tax number must be entered into the public tax number register for construction workers.
• Valtti card application – registered Finnish employers usually handle the application on behalf of employees.
• Photo submission and identity verification
• Card issuance and activation

Cards are valid for a set period and may need renewal if employment details change or contracts further extend.

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The Valtti system has helped to reduce illegal practices and strengthen trust across the sector by combining tax compliance, worker identification and digital site management into a single, straightforward process.

If you are looking to have an individual work in Finland, it’s important to understand this essential process and the requirements  for obtaining a Valtti card, as it’s not just about compliance, it’s also to ensure a smooth start to your projects  for you and your newly introduced workers.