Part-Time, Seasonal, and Underage Workers: Anniskelupassi Misconceptions | PassiPRO

Part-Time, Seasonal, and Underage Workers working in a bar or restaurant in Finland? There is some general confusion about this subject. Finland's Anniskelupassi – often called the Alcohol Passport or alcohol serving license – is a certificate proving one's knowledge of the Finnish Alcohol Act and serving regulations. It's an important credential in the hospitality industry, which you can prepare for and pass using PassiPro's quality learning resources, but both locals and foreigners frequently misunderstand its requirements and purpose. Below, we clarify the most common misconceptions in our series of articles, along with brief explanations and corrections for each.

Misconception: "Part-time or seasonal workers don't need an Anniskelupassi."

Correction: Job status (part-time or seasonal) does not exempt someone from the legal requirements. The Alcohol Act does not differentiate between full-time and part-time staff – if a part-time or seasonal employee is ever the only person overseeing alcohol service, they would need the certificate just like a full-timer.

In practice, many short-term workers operate under supervision of others who are certified, which is legal. But if an employer expects a seasonal hire to occasionally run a shift or be without direct supervision, that worker would indeed need an Anniskelupassi. In short, part-time and seasonal staff must follow the same rules as others: they can work without the license only if a certified supervisor is present. Many employers still ask even seasonal hires to get the certificate as a precaution.

Misconception: "Underage workers cannot earn or use an Anniskelupassi."

Correction: Minors (under 18) in Finland can take the Anniskelupassi test and even work in serving roles – with restrictions. It's a common misunderstanding that you must be an adult to take the test. In fact, 16- and 17-year-olds are allowed to study for and pass the alcohol passport exam.

The catch is that until they turn 18, they cannot act as the responsible manager in charge of alcohol service. By law, persons 16–17 may serve alcohol only under the immediate supervision of a responsible manager or other adult with an Anniskelupassi.

So, a 17-year-old could obtain the certificate (for example, to boost their qualifications or prepare for future jobs), but they still must work under supervision until reaching adulthood. Once they turn 18, that existing certificate becomes fully effective for working independently. This clarifies that underage individuals can get certified – the license itself isn't age-limited – but they cannot use it to supervise others or substitute as the manager until age 18.