Starting June 2025, Finland will implement a sweeping change to its immigration policy that could force thousands of foreign workers to leave the country if they fail to secure new employment within 90 days of losing their job. Announced by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, the reform introduces a strict three-month deadline for job-seeking after termination, signaling a dramatic shift from the country’s previously flexible immigration framework.
This new law affects all holders of work-based residence permits and aims to align Finland’s labor migration policies with broader European Union standards. Previously, foreign nationals were allowed to remain in the country while searching for jobs, provided they met general residence requirements. That leeway is now being replaced by a deadline that critics say is too short for many jobseekers, especially in sectors with longer recruitment processes or high language proficiency demands.
Not everyone is affected equally. High-skilled professionals earning over €3,827 per month, such as EU Blue Card holders, company transferees, executives, and those who have held a work permit in Finland for more than two years, will be granted a six-month grace period. Still, for the majority of foreign workers, the clock will now start ticking the moment employment ends.
In addition to putting pressure on workers, the new regulation also increases accountability for employers. Companies will be legally required to notify the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) within 14 days when a foreign worker’s job ends. Authorities argue this will boost transparency, tighten oversight, and bring Finland’s system in line with EU directives.
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But the policy is already drawing backlash. According to a recent survey by OP Financial Group, 13% of foreign workers in Finland are considering leaving the country due to the upcoming change. Many cite the challenges of finding new jobs within such a short period, especially with language barriers, credential recognition issues, and lengthy hiring processes.
The timing of the rule is also raising eyebrows. In 2024, Finland issued just 11,000 work-based residence permits, down sharply from 15,000 the year before. While the tech industry continues to attract talent, critical sectors like healthcare are grappling with workforce shortages. Experts warn that imposing stricter rules could deter much-needed professionals from relocating to Finland, especially as global competition for skilled labor intensifies.
With an aging population and growing gaps in essential services, some analysts caution that the new rule, while boosting regulatory control, could ultimately hinder economic growth. Finland now faces the challenge of enforcing stricter immigration rules without sacrificing its appeal as a destination for global talent.
