The State of Work-Based Migration in Finland: A 2024 Overview

Work-based migration in Finland has been a subject of debate for a considerable period drawing heightened attention during the previous parliamentary elections. As Finland contends with an aging population and a labor shortage, the imperative to attract skilled workers from abroad has become increasingly critical. In response to the challenges, Finland has enacted a series of reforms aimed at streamlining, accelerating, and clarifying immigration processes over the past years. 

Finland has implemented various initiatives and reforms to improve work-based immigration, including the 2022 introduction of a fast-track system for specialists, start-up entrepreneurs, and their families, which significantly reduced work permit processing times. The country also relaxed certain document requirements, introduced a D visa allowing skilled workers to travel to Finland and begin working immediately after receiving their residence permit, and invested in digitalizing the application process to expedite work-related permits. Building on these efforts, the revised Talent Boost program (2023–2027) aims to enhance earlier measures by promoting Finland's attractiveness, streamlining residence permit processes, retaining foreign talent, and preventing work-based exploitation.

The most recent amendments, effective as of September 1st, 2024, have introduced stricter regulations for first-time residence permit applications submitted within Finland. Furthermore, the requirement to possess a valid passport has been reinforced, with fewer exceptions permitted. The income thresholds will also be increased later this year to correspond to the current costs of living.

Ongoing legislative changes include, for example, proposals for a 3/6-month unemployment rule, amended criteria for permanent residency, and several tax exemptions for employer-paid costs related to cross-border working situation. 

The economic downturn, coupled with several international conflicts in recent years has influenced immigration patterns, though work-based migration to Finland remains high, with record numbers of residence permit applications submitted by students and family members of employees. As the global business environment evolves, Finland's approach to work-based migration will play a pivotal role in shaping its economic future. 

At KPMG, we are committed to assisting companies and their employees with all aspects of moving to Finland through our comprehensive Immigration Services. Our services can be tailored according to the needs of the client, including immigration assessments, assistance with translations and legalizations, extensive support with residence permit applications and making sure the process goes as expected.

Together with our Relocation and Support Services, our services extend to organizing orientation visits to your target city and assist you in settling in your everyday living in Finland, assisting with local registrations and other authority visits, assisting in finding housing and offering full support to your family members, including help with school and daycare placements and spousal support services.

We are closely monitoring the Finnish legislative changes and the ongoing discussions surrounding work-based migration. We continuously update our knowledge and ensure that our customers are always informed and ahead of any changes in the field. Our commitment is to keep our clients well-prepared and supported throughout each relocation Finland.