Finland has introduced stricter requirements for non-EU migrants applying for residence permits based on employment, a move that is expected to significantly impact foreign workers seeking to remain in the country.
The changes, which came into effect on June 1, stipulate that applicants must now meet a higher monthly income threshold than before. Under the new rule, employed migrants must earn a minimum gross salary of €1,399 per month to qualify for a residence permit. This marks a considerable increase from the previous minimum of €1,283.
According to the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri), this update aims to ensure that foreign workers receive a fair wage that covers the minimum cost of living in the country. Authorities say the adjustment reflects inflation and rising living expenses in Finland.
The higher income threshold applies to most employed migrants outside of certain exempted sectors. Seasonal workers, individuals under 18, and those working in fields with separate income standards—such as cleaners or agricultural workers—will not be subject to the new rate.
Employers are now expected to submit more detailed information about the terms of employment in the residence permit applications of foreign workers. This includes specific details such as the number of working hours per week and monthly gross salary. Incomplete or unclear employer declarations may result in permit denials or processing delays, according to Migri officials.
Additionally, the changes signal tighter scrutiny over employment contracts to prevent underpaid or fictitious jobs. Authorities emphasize that the employment must be genuine, regular, and capable of sustaining the migrant’s financial independence in Finland.
The new rules are part of a broader policy shift introduced by the current government, which has made migration reform a central part of its agenda. Finland’s right-leaning administration has been seeking to restrict labor immigration and introduce measures that prioritize domestic employment opportunities.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment explained that the reforms are also intended to improve integration outcomes and reduce the number of migrants who might fall into dependency on social benefits. Officials argue that ensuring a stable financial foundation through employment is key to successful integration.
However, the changes have drawn concern from migrant advocacy groups and employers, particularly in industries already facing labor shortages. Sectors such as hospitality, caregiving, and agriculture—which often rely heavily on foreign labor—could be disproportionately affected, critics warn.
Trade unions and labor rights organizations argue that the raised threshold may deter much-needed workers from coming to Finland. They also express concern that vulnerable migrant workers could be pushed into informal or exploitative work arrangements if they cannot meet the new salary requirements.
“This reform risks creating more barriers for genuine workers who want to contribute to Finnish society,” said one advocacy group representative, who also noted that not all essential jobs offer salaries that meet the new threshold.
In response, Finnish officials insist that the government will continue to monitor the impacts of the changes and may revise the rules if they cause unintended negative effects on the economy or labor market.
The Finnish Immigration Service has encouraged applicants and employers to familiarize themselves with the new guidelines and ensure that documentation is thorough and accurate to avoid processing issues.
As of now, the rules apply to all new applications submitted on or after June 1. Applications submitted before that date will be processed under the previous requirements.
Observers note that Finland’s reforms are part of a broader trend in parts of Europe where governments are tightening immigration policies in response to domestic political pressures, economic concerns, and integration challenges.
The long-term impact of the new Finnish policy on labor migration patterns, particularly from outside the European Union, remains to be seen.
Source: InfoMigrants
