Finland
The laws most likely to catch a visitor off guard. What is legal at home can be a serious crime here — each rule links to its official source.
Get alerted when this changesLawLert pings you if Finland's laws change. Free.Get the free appDrugs
Penalties for drug offences in Finland, even for possession of small amounts, include heavy fines and jail terms of up to 10 years, and apply even when transiting through airports.
Up to 10 years imprisonment and heavy fines.
§ UK FCDO — FinlandMedications
You may bring up to a 3-month personal supply of prescription medication into Finland with your prescription and a dated letter from your doctor; prescribed narcotics are limited to a 14-day supply and require a medical certificate.
Narcotics without proper documentation may be seized.
§ US State Dept — FinlandCustoms & Cash
Declare EUR 10,000 or more (any currency) when traveling between Finland and a non-EU country; no declaration is needed to/from another EU country.
Failure to declare may result in seizure of funds.
§ Australian DFAT Smartraveller — FinlandDriving
In Finland, cars and vans must use winter tyres (minimum 3.0mm tread) whenever weather or road conditions require during 1 November to 31 March, and the rule applies to foreign-registered vehicles too.
Fine for non-compliance.
§ Traficom (Finland)Headlights must always be on in Finland, even in daylight — a legal requirement for all vehicles.
Fine for non-compliance.
§ Australian DFAT Smartraveller — FinlandThe blood-alcohol limit for driving in Finland is 0.05%; over the limit you may be arrested.
Arrest for BAC above 0.05%.
§ Australian DFAT Smartraveller — FinlandPhotography & Drones
Under EU drone rules in Finland, operators of drones over 250 g or with a camera must register and in most cases pass an online exam before flying.
Unregistered operation of qualifying drones violates EU aviation regulation.
§ Traficom (Finland) — Unmanned Aviation