Welcome to conscript service in the Guard Jaeger Regiment 6th of July 2026!

Please familiarize yourself with the guides contents before you fill out the pre-service questionnaire and before your service begins. More info about our units and branches in English on our webpage:

maavoimat.fi/en/guard-jaeger-regiment/for-conscripts 

If for some reason (you cannot get flight tickets or passport etc.) you are not able to start your military service as scheduled, please contact immediately Uusimaa Regional Office to get the instructions by email [email protected].

How to prepare for your military service:  preparing for the service

It is advisable to prepare for your upcoming service by organizing your personal affairs and familiarizing yourself with military life and service duties. A few steps can make the start of your service smoother:

• Inform your employer or educational institution well in advance about the start of your service.
• Take care of your financial matters. You can apply for military assistance from Kela, Finland.
• Prepare to serve for 8.5 months (255 days) or 11.5 months (347 days), as the Guard Jaeger Regiment has very few positions lasting 5.5 months (165 days). The exact length of your service will be determined during the conscript and training branch period.

If you are coming from abroad to service, familiarize yourself with important information: Information for those coming from abroad

Fill out the pre-service questionnaire that allows you to impact on your future service task. Please note that your replies will not determine the outcome as such, but rather all decisive decisions on service task selection will be made only at the during the branch-training period. Please return the filled-out questionnaire form (picture/scanned) by email a[email protected]

• Pre-service questionnaire in English or Recruit Questionnaire at https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/forms
• Electronic questionnaire if you have Finnish bank account: https://asiointi.puolustusvoimat.fi

You have to arrive on Monday 6th of July 2026 by 4 pm. To avoid congestion, try to arrive in the time window according to your last name.

First letter of your last name is:

A - K = arrive between 10 am and 12 am
L - R = arrive between 12 am and 2 pm
S - Ö = arrive between 2 pm and 4 pm

Santahamina can be reached from Herttoniemi Metro Station by bus number 86. It is also possible to arrive with a family member or friend by their car. Arrival by own private vehicle is prohibited. There is no parking available at Santahamina during the first weeks of service.

Bring the following items with you to service:

• Your service commencement order, showing where and when your service begins
• An official form of identification (passport or police-issued ID card)
• Health insurance card (if you have one: KELA card)
• Driver’s license (if you have one)
• Personal hygiene items
• Your own shaving equipment (if desired)
• Contact information of your family members
• Your bank account number (in IBAN format)
• Any medical certificates and paper prescriptions
• About a two-week supply of prescription medications
• Documentation of vaccinations received or your vaccination card
• Optional but useful: headlamp and wristwatch

What to do if you are sick on the day your service begins:

If you feel unwell on the first day of service, you still have to come to start your service at the Guard Jaeger Regiment in Santahamina, where a healthcare professional will assess your condition.

Based on the assessment, you may:
a) begin service normally,
b) begin service in temporary accommodation at Santahamina, or
c) be sent home/accomodation to recover.

In all of the above cases, an initial interview will be conducted at Santahamina.

For conscripts starting their service in July 2026, the first two weeks consist of active service, followed by a weekend leave (July 17). After this, the service continues in 1–2 week periods, with a free weekend in between. Depending on the training period, the service periods may be longer.

The basic unit, and consequently the implementation of the training, is determined at the start of service, at which time you will also be informed about the upcoming training period (6 weeks).

Family Days on July 11–12, 2026, at Santahamina
The Guard Jaeger Regiment’s Family Days will be held on Saturday, July 11, and Sunday, July 12, at Santahamina. Family Days are divided by units over two days, with companies having their own designated times. Conscripts register their family members for the event through their unit. Only family members pre-registered by the conscripts may attend.

The schedule for the days will be published on this website closer to the event. Family Days will be held if the prevailing health situation allows the events to take place safely.

Military Oath and Military Affirmation Ceremony
The Military Oath and Affirmation Ceremonies will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the Olympic Stadium in Helsinki. Family members are welcome to attend. Detailed information about the ceremony will be published later.

Vaccination is an effective and safe way to prevent infectious diseases, as well as their associated complications, disabilities, and deaths. A vaccine protects not only the person who receives it but also others indirectly by reducing the spread of pathogens within the population.

New conscripts are given vaccinations approved by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health against:

• Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis
• Meningococcal disease
• Measles, mumps, and rubella
• Tick-borne encephalitis and influenza

At Santahamina Health Centre, these vaccinations are administered to conscripts during the first two weeks of service, unless valid vaccination protection can be demonstrated. According to the Communicable Diseases Act, vaccinations are voluntary.

Influenza vaccine
The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) recommends that those beginning their service in January receive the influenza vaccine already in November–December. Those starting service in January are entitled to a free influenza vaccination. The municipality decides on the practical arrangements for the vaccination. It can be administered, for example, at one’s own health centre or through student health services.

The health of conscripts is cared for at the Santahamina Health Centre during their service. At the start of their service, conscripts receive instructions from their basic unit on how to visit the health centre and other guidance to follow in case of illness.

The Guard Battalion (KAARTP) trains military police for wartime units as well as all drivers for the units trained within the Guard Jaeger Regiment.

The Army's Guard of Honour, appointed by the Battalion, carries out the military ceremonial duties of the Supreme Commander (president), Minister of Defence, Chief of Defence, and the Helsinki Garrison. In addition to ceremonial duties, the Military Police Companies are responsible for guarding key sites, including the Guard of Honour at the Presidential Palace.

The service period for all units is 347 days for those trained in leadership and driver roles, and 255 days for enlisted.

Transport Company (TRNSPRT COY, FIN: KULJK)

The Transport Company is composed of conscripts selected for demanding roles as heavy vehicle drivers or leaders. Entry into driver training is possible from all basic units at the end of the basic training period. The training also includes combat instruction so that those specialized as drivers can be assigned to other wartime units of the Guard Jaeger Regiment.

More information about the requirements for the drivers on below: military drivers

The Transport Company also includes a separate detachment team (service period 165 days) where conscripts carry out practical service duties, including assignments at the Defence Command and National Defence courses.

1st and 2nd Military Police Companies (1 MPCOY and 2 MPCOY, FIN: 1.SPOLK AND 2.SPOLK)

The 1st and 2nd Military Police Companies provide military police training. They take turns forming the Army's Guard of Honour for ceremonial duties and guarding important military sites.

Military police are trained in areas such as site and personal protection, use of force, and methods for countering enemy special forces. Cooperation with other authorities is also an important part of the training.

The infrastructure of the Helsinki metropolitan area, such as tunnel networks, metro stations, and large building complexes, adds unique features to the training. Some conscripts are trained for special roles, including military police driver, sniper, combat rescuer, reconnaissance tasks.

Uusimaa Jaeger Battalion (UUDJP) trains high-performance urban jaeger units for the defence of the Helsinki metropolitan area and the Uusimaa region.

The service period in all units is 347 days for those trained in leadership, driver, and readiness unit roles.

1st Jaeger Company (1 INF COY, FIN: 1. JK)

Trains urban jaegers as well as support and heavy weapon teams (mortar squads, fire control and engineer patrols, and automatic grenade launcher squads) for the demanding urban combat missions of the Urban Jaeger Company and readiness units. The training of urban jaegers focuses on offensive combat.

All conscripts receive training in urban warfare, focusing on the skills of individual soldiers and leaders. The training places high demands on both the physical and mental performance of the soldiers. Modern weapons and equipment suitable for urban warfare are used in the training.

Headquarters and Signal Company (FIN: EVK)

Trains conscripts primarily for the signal systems of urban jaeger units. In the Headquarters and Signal Company, you will get to use modern equipment, but all soldiers in the unit also receive training in urban warfare and the basic skills of an urban jaeger.

Non-Commissioned Officer School (NCO SCHOOL, FIN: AUK)

Trains conscripts on first period of service and during specialized training cycles to meet the needs of the urban jaeger and signal units. Provides non-commissioned officer (NCO) training (leadership schooling) for the Uusimaa Jaeger Battalion and Guard Battalion, including in urban warfare, military police, signal, transport, and support roles. The top-performing NCOs may continue on to the reserve officer course in Hamina, depending on current needs.

Readiness Unit (FIN: VYKS) is the spearhead unit of the Guard Jaeger Regiment. It consists of both conscripts and salaried personnel, and it is meant for rapid response to possible changes in the security environment. The conscripts of the readiness unit maybe used for military national defence duties (combat, protection and support) according to their military service training phase, as well as for assistance provided to other authorities. The training in the unit is versatile, demanding and offers you the opportunity to challenge yourself.

The Readiness Unit operates as part of the 1st Jaeger Company. It is recommended to apply to the Readiness Unit if you are interested in demanding and progressive training as well as engaging tasks. Training in the Readiness Unit is considered an advantage when applying for the Finnish Army’s crisis management assignments. The service period is 347 days if you want to serve in the Readiness Unit.

Guard Jaeger Regiment is looking for proactive military drivers and conscript leaders for transport-related tasks. Your operational area will be the urban centers of the Helsinki metropolitan area. You will work in challenging military driver roles related to training of the troops and combat readiness. As a military driver, you will be responsible for operating heavy vehicles and performing demanding leadership tasks. We provide thorough training and familiarization for your duties.

You may have access to well-equipped trucks, off-road trucks, or armored personnel carriers, for which you are responsible to maintain according to the instructions provided by the Finnish Defence Forces.

Requirements for the military driver:

• Health class A fitness standards (cases with class B fitness are assessed individually)
• Class B driver’s license
• Initiative and readiness for demanding training

Repeated traffic offenses or driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs are disqualifying for driver training. The Finnish Defence Forces will check the traffic offense records in the driving license information system for all candidates seeking military driver positions.

We offer you:

• BEC1E and/or BECE-class driver’s license 
• Driver training for risk awareness
• Night driving instruction (if not completed during basic training)
• Basic professional competence training (BECE 280 hours or accelerated 140 hours)
• Advanced professional competence training
• Expanded professional competence training
• Armored vehicle driver and leadership training
• Certificates for completed driver’s license classes
• Professional competence and skills that can also be applied in the reserves

Indicate your interest in becoming a military driver in the pre-questionnaire and during the first weeks of your service in an interview in your basic unit. The service period for military drivers is 347 days.

Guard Jaeger Regiment's military social workers:

Jarmo Österlund (+358 299 421 722 / [email protected])
Iiris Kukkola (+358 299 421 731 tai [email protected])

The role of military social workers is to advise, guide, and assist conscripts.

You can approach us with a low threshold during your service regarding matters related to both civilian life and/or military service. You can come to discuss issues related to relationships, military service, livelihood, housing, work, or studies. Or if you simply don’t know what to do, you can reach out to us. All conversations are strictly confidential.

Our office is located in the building of Training Division in the Guard Jaeger Regiment. We are available Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 16:00. Outside these hours, please leave a message, and we will get back to you.

Regards,
Jarmo and Iiris

The Guard Jaeger Committee (KJTK) acts as the representatives for conscripts, advances service conditions, and organizes leisure-time activities. KJTK maintains an Instagram group to provide support and guidance, especially for new conscripts. Initiatives submitted by conscripts to improve conscription service are forwarded through the Jaeger Committee. The committee communicates conscript-related matters in cooperation with the regimental leadership.

Conscripts’ Sports Clubs (VLK)

The purpose of the conscripts’ sports clubs is to lower the threshold for physical activity during free time and to offer opportunities to explore different sports and types of exercise. By participating in club activities 12 times, you will receive a technical VLK T-shirt from the Guard Jaeger Regiment.

Our office is located in the lower floor of the Soldiers’ Canteen. We provide various leisure and sports equipment for conscripts to use. In the game room opposite our office, several gaming consoles are available for rainy days. You can ask us about leisure activities, equipment, or even unit representation. Drop by to hang out, or contact us via a private message on KJTK’s Instagram (kaartjr_kjtk).

You can also reach out if you are interested in serving in KJTK. In July 2026, we will be recruiting a new vice-chairperson and two communication/photographer conscripts from among those who started their service in July. The application process will open during the first weeks of service. Service time in these tasks are 255 days.

Wishing you an enjoyable service:

Corporal Elmeri Oikarinen, Chairperson
Guard Jaeger Akseli Tonttila, Vice-Chairperson
Guard Jaegers Aaron Aromäki and Kasma Korjus, Communication/photographer conscripts

You can follow everyday life in the military on social media, for example on Instagram, Facebook, and X. Using the hashtags #inttiarki, #inttiedessä, #kaartjr and #maavoimat, you can find photos, videos, and stories on Instagram, YouTube, X, and Facebook.

Channels of the Guard Jaeger Regiment:

• maavoimat.fi/en/guard-jaeger-regiment/for-conscripts
• facebook.com/KaartinJR
• twitter.com/KaartinJR 
• Instagram: @maavoimat
• Youtube: @puolustusvoimat

Welcome to follow the Guard Jaeger Regiment’s Instagram Group!

It is definitely a good idea to join the group, because you get to know your service mates in advance and you can ask questions about military service. In this group, you get information about the start of military service, events, tips for getting prepared for the military and stories about it, and lots of things related to service.

You can find this group on Instagram by the name kaartjr_kjtk. Send your name by a private message to be accepted as a follower. 

You can publish  your questions by commenting a post or contact by a direct message. 

Finnish Defence Forces offer a free WiFi to the conscripts. Name and password for the WiFi are provided from you basic unit. 

The use of personal phones and other devices is permitted during free time in accordance with the regulations and instructions provided. During service, phones may not be used unless the personnel has explicitly given permission. This should also be communicated to your family and friends.

Please note that not all areas or equipment are permitted to be photographed. Respect the privacy of your fellow service members. If you are uncertain whether something is allowed to photograph, always ask from your basic unit's personnel.

If you are unable to start your conscript service as planned, complete a change request and send it to your regional office.

You can find the change request form and additional information online at: Changing the starting date or place of entering into service

Changes to the service period or service location must be requested in writing well in advance of the service start date. The request can be submitted by email, by post, or in person at a customer service point. We recommend visiting the customer service point to expedite the processing of your request.

Please note that simply submitting a request is not a valid reason for not attending to the service.

Uusimaa Regional Office is open Tuesday to Thursday from 09:00 to 15:00.

Visiting address: Santahaminantie 1, 00860 Helsinki
Email and phone: [email protected]/ +358 29 942 2211

Contact information for other regional offices can be found at: puolustusvoimat.fi/asiointi/aluetoimistot

In questions related to the start of the service, please send email to [email protected]

We will answer your questions as soon as possible.