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Finland is simplifying work-related residence permits to address labor shortages

Finland has announced significant changes to the processing of work residence permits to attract skilled professionals to address ongoing labor shortages in key sectors.

This change will speed up the entry process for foreigners with special skills; Speeding up the application process and reducing waiting times for those who want to work in the Finnish economy.

According to TravelBiz, the Finnish Immigration Service has significantly reduced processing times for specialist residence permits. This adjustment is part of a broader strategy to attract highly qualified professionals to Finland’s workforce, responding to urgent needs in various areas.

What you should know

  • The Finnish Immigration Service has reported that processing times for residence permits have improved. For specialists, the average processing time has decreased from 12 days to nine days.
  • This means that people with exceptional expertise can now enter Finland more quickly and contribute to the economy without unnecessary delays.
  • Finland states that streamlining these processes will open doors to skilled professionals who can meet the needs of our labor markets. This new approach aims to support industries that require higher skills

Eligibility criteria

  • Reports indicate that applicants will have to meet certain criteria to qualify as specialists under the revised rules. They must have an advanced degree or have specialized skills acquired through work experience.
  • In addition, they must earn a minimum monthly income of 3,600 euros. This ensures that only highly qualified people who are able to meet the demands of the workforce are attracted to Finland.
  • This focus on advanced qualifications aims to adapt the inflow of skilled workers to the specific needs of the Finnish labor market.

Improved processing times for all work permit applicants

  • In addition to the specialists, the Finnish Immigration Service has extended processing times for other work permit applicants.
  • Applying for a work permit for the first time now takes an average of 23 days, a reduction from the previous average of 55 days. Rejections of work permit applications will be processed within 87 days (instead of 125 days).
  • The goal, as previously mentioned, is to ensure that applicants receive timely responses, which in turn helps address labor shortages.

Expedited processing of study permits

Finland has also accelerated the processing of residence permits for study purposes.

First-time study permit applicants can now expect decisions within an average of eight days, a significant decrease from the previous average of 36 days in 2023.

Ensuring national security in processing

Ilkka Haahtela, Director General of the Finnish Immigration Authority, emphasized that these accelerated processing times do not pose a threat to national security.

He noted that cooperation with various authorities has been intensified to ensure that thorough security controls are maintained. “We attach great importance to the security of our country and at the same time facilitate the entry of qualified specialists,” explained Haahtela.

Ongoing Improvements for Immigration Efficiency

  • Finnish immigration authorities are reportedly planning to further reduce processing times.
  • The aim is to make Finland an even more attractive travel destination for skilled workers and students.
  • In addition, there are efforts to reduce waiting times for asylum applications, reflecting a comprehensive approach to migration management.

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