Population Information System query interface

Through the Population Information System query interface, an organisation can retrieve real-time data from the Population Information System directly into its own information system.

The Population Information System query interface is suitable for an organisation that wants to e.g.

  • check basic customer information
  • offer their clients electronic services 
  • verify data during application processing.

The Population Information System data disclosed to the organisation and their purpose of use are always agreed on a case-by-case basis with the Digital and Population Data Services Agency.

Public sector organisations can directly contact the Digital and Population Data Services Agency regarding data permits, and private sector companies can contact intermediary companies.

The Population Information System query interface for intermediary companies.

Good to know 

► The Population Information System query interface is not intended for regular or extensive updating of data in one's own register or for other mass surveys. For these purposes, the Digital and Population Data Services Agency's update services for customer registers of public administration and private companies and organisations are suitable.

► Data in the Population Information System query interface is retrieved and received as XML messages. For more information on the technical implementation of the interface, see the page Technical implementation of the the Population Information System query interface and using the service.

► As an alternative to the Population Information System query interface, there is the Browser-based Population Information System query. This browser-based service offers an easy-to-use way to utilise information without the need for interface integration.

Read the following before submitting an application

Processing time

Processing of the application for a data access authorisation for the Population Information System query interface takes about three months. The processing includes any requests for supplementary information, negotiations and the assessment of the applicant’s technical system.

Use, Logging, and Monitoring of Data

Data from the Population Information System obtained via the query interface may only be used for the work and official duties specified in the data permit. Using or viewing data for personal purposes is strictly prohibited. All data processing must be conducted with care and in accordance with good data management practices, taking into account data protection and data security.

The information in the Population Information System is not public and must not be disclosed to third parties.

It is the responsibility of the permit holder to maintain a log file recording all queries made to the Population Information System. Log files must generally be retained for five (5) years. The log file must indicate who made the query (at the individual level), what data was requested from the Population Information System, and when the query was made (dd.mm.yyyy time).

The Digital and Population Data Services Agency monitors and supervises the use of the Population Information System query interface. Possible consequences of misuse include a warning to the organisation regarding the handling of data or the termination of the organisation’s data permit. In more severe cases, a criminal report will be filed. If the permit holder suspects misuse within their organisation, they must contact the Digital and Population Data Services Agency immediately.

The Digital and Population Data Services Agency has the right to review log files concerning queries to the Population Information System if necessary. The permit holder must provide an explanation regarding data usage to the Agency without delay upon request.

Price

  • Local and central government authorities as well as welfare authorities can use the Population Information System query interface free of charge. 

  • For other public sector customers and private sector customers performing statutory tasks, the use of the Population Information System query interface is invoiced on the basis of the number of surveys conducted on a monthly basis. 
  • In addition, public sector customers are charged an establishment fee for the the Population Information System query interface.
  • Businesses and private organisations are charged a fee for the queries made in the the Population Information System query interface. The cost of each query depends, among other things, on the scope of the content of the data. The cost of setting up the connection is also charged from the customer organisation. 

Frequently asked questions

Links to Acts

Laki väestötietojärjestelmästä ja Digi- ja väestötietoviraston varmennepalveluista (Act on the Population Information System and the Certificate Services of the Digital and Population Data Services Agency, 661/2009)

Data Protection Act (1050/2018)

Valtiovarainministeriön asetus Digi- ja väestötietoviraston suoritteiden maksuista vuonna 2024 (Ministry of Finance Decree on Fees Charged for Digital and Population Data Services Agency Performances in 2024, 1142/2023)

Valtiovarainministeriön asetus Digi- ja väestötietoviraston suoritteiden maksuista vuonna 2025 (Ministry of Finance Decree on Fees Charged for Digital and Population Data Services Agency Performances in 2025, 793/2024)

 

Population of Finland 5 650 076