Finland Eases Rules for Employed Migrants, Strengthens Employer Oversight

As of June 11, 2025, Finland has implemented a series of reforms to its residence permit rules, making it easier for employed migrants to remain in the country during periods of unemployment—while also increasing compliance obligations for employers.

Extended Job Search Period for Migrant Workers

Under the updated regulations, most foreign nationals holding a residence permit based on employment are granted a three-month protection period to find new work after losing their job.

However, there are important exceptions:

• Specialists, and
• Migrants who have lived in Finland on a work-based permit for over two years

...are now entitled to a six-month job search period. This extension is contingent on the residence permit remaining valid during unemployment.

Permit Withdrawal Rules Clarified

The Finnish Immigration Service clarified that residence permits may still be withdrawn if:

• The job seeker fails to find new employment within the permitted period, and
• They do not qualify for a permit under another residence category.

However, migrants who do have other valid reasons to stay (such as family ties, education, or humanitarian grounds) may apply for a new residence permit under a different status.

According to Asta Kassinen, Process Owner at the Finnish Immigration Service, the previous law lacked specific guidance on how long a worker could remain unemployed before risking permit withdrawal. The current reform offers greater transparency and protection for foreign workers.

Labour Shortages Drive Policy Reform

These updates are part of Finland’s broader strategy to address acute labor shortages—particularly in critical sectors like:

• Healthcare
• Engineering
• ICT
• Construction
• Logistics

The reforms also align with a wider EU directive on labor migration, which other member states are expected to implement beginning in 2026.

New Reporting Duties for Employers

While migrant worker regulations are becoming more flexible, employers are now subject to stricter reporting requirements.

Previously, Finnish employers only had to notify authorities when hiring a foreign worker. Under the new rules, they are now required to report the early termination of employment contracts and the current status of the employee's residence permit.

Employers must submit a termination notice via the Enter Finland platform within 14 days of the end of employment. Failure to do so could result in penalties or sanctions.

These stricter employer obligations are designed to:

• Enhance permit monitoring
• Prevent abuse of the residence system
• Expedite the removal of migrants who no longer meet legal permit criteria

Easier Access to High-Demand Sectors for Unemployed Migrants

Finally, the Finnish government has expanded job mobility for unemployed migrants. Those who lose their jobs but maintain a valid permit will now be allowed to seek work in sectors facing critical shortages, easing both reintegration and administrative burdens.