cancel
GMS Flash Alert 2024-001

Finland – Closure of Southeastern Border-Crossing Points

GMS Flash Alert 2023-221 | 21 November 2023

In response to evolving concerns of facilitated illegal entries into Finland, the Finnish government has announced the closure of specific border-crossing points along Finland's eastern border, effective from 18 November 2023.  This decision encompasses closure of the key entry points of Vaalimaa, Nuijamaa, Imatra, and Niirala.  This directive will be in place until 18 February 2024.1

The decision to close Finland's eastern border stems from a significant rise in illegal entries, particularly at key crossing points in southeast Finland.  This closure is essential to tackle the growing threat posed by these illegal entries, thus reinforcing public safety and national security.2

Why this matters

Individuals intending to cross the land border between Finland and Russia must now utilise the four northeastern border-crossing points that remain open for passenger transport (Rajajooseppi, Salla, Kuusamo, and Vartius).  Concurrently, Finnish citizens are mandated to comply with open border-crossing points during this period.

The submission of applications for international protection, i.e., asylum, at the land border between Finland and Russia, will be concentrated at the border-crossing points of Vartius and Salla.  People seeking to enter the country will be directed and guided to these locations. 3

The closure of specific border-crossing points may significantly impact the movement of employees and individuals reliant on these routes, particularly affecting those engaged in cross-border activities or commuting between Finland and Russia.  Employees accustomed to using the now-closed border points will need to adapt to alternative crossings, potentially altering their travel logistics and routines. 

Context 

This decision aligns with Section 16 of the Border Guard Act, which permits the government to enact such measures in the face of a serious threat to public order, national security, or public health.  The consolidation of international protection application submissions at specific border-crossing points is a strategic move in response to these concerns.4

There have been indications that external actors or authorities may have facilitated the entry of individuals into Finland through illegal means.  Consequently, the government has taken significant steps to reorganise border crossings, aiming to address the issues that have arisen.5  

The Finnish government and related authorities are actively monitoring the situation at Finland's eastern border.  Regular assessments will be conducted to evaluate the continued necessity of this directive.  Any revisions or amendments will be promptly communicated as circumstances evolve.6

KPMG INSIGHTS

This development signifies a pivotal shift in border-control measures, necessitating a keen adherence to the updated protocols for travel and border crossing by individuals travelling to/from Finland for tourism, business, or asylum.

The KPMG International member firm in Finland continues to monitor the implementation of the amendments closely.

For additional information or specific inquiries related to these border-control measures, it is advisable to consult with qualified immigration counsel or a member of the immigration team with KPMG in Finland (see the Contacts section).

Contacts

Sanna Leivo

Manager

KPMG in Finland

Minna Pekkanen

Manager

KPMG in Finland

Additional Resources

pdf

Download the PDF


Footnotes

1 Ministry of the Interior, "Government decides to close the border in Southeast Finland" (also available at this link in Finnish, Swedish, and Russian).

2  Ministry of the Interior, "Government decides to close the border in Southeast Finland" (also available at this link in Finnish, Swedish, and Russian).

3  Ibid. 

4  Ibid. 

5 Ibid. 

6 Ibid. 


Disclaimer

*Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.

The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in Finland.

GMS Flash Alert is a Global Mobility Services publication of the KPMG LLP Washington National Tax practice. The KPMG name and logo are trademarks used under license by the independent member firms of the KPMG global organization. KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee and does not provide services to clients. No member firm has any authority to obligate or bind KPMG International or any other member firm vis-à-vis third parties, nor does KPMG International have any such authority to obligate or bind any member firm. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act on such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

© 2024 KPMG Oy Ab, a Finnish limited liability company and a member firm of the KPMG global organization of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Limited, a private English company limited by guarantee. All rights reserved.