A new law in Finland will require digital correspondence from authorities for 1.8 million people starting April 14, 2026, while retaining paper communication as an option for others.
A significant legislative shift in Finland is set to take place, impacting approximately 1.8 million people, where from April 14, 2026, individuals who engage with authorities digitally will receive official correspondence primarily in digital format. This law was approved by the Finnish parliament on March 11 and awaits final confirmation. The Digi- ja väestötietovirasto (Digital and Population Data Services Agency) has emphasized the continued option for paper-based correspondence for those who do not use digital services.
Project manager Annette Hotari from the Digi- ja väestötietovirasto has reassured citizens that for those who do not utilize governmental digital services or robust authentication tools, nothing will change; they will continue to receive official mail in paper format. The law is not going to affect individuals who do not operate digitally, including minors, those under guardianship, and those already using the Suomi.fi message service.
This change marks a significant step toward digital transformation within Finnish government communications, highlighting an effort to streamline processes and improve efficiency. Nevertheless, it raises questions about digital accessibility and equity, as it predominantly affects individuals opting into digital communication, while ensuring that there are still options for those preferring traditional methods. The successful implementation of this law may set a precedent for similar digital reforms in other sectors in Finland and beyond.
