Finland Expects Increase in Work Permit Applications in 2025

Finland is preparing for a higher number of work permit applications next year, which is expected to lead to an increase in the number of foreign workers in the country.

According to a press release from the Finnish Immigration Service, projections indicate that while there will be a drop in work permit applications in 2025 due to the economic downturn in Finland, a significant surge is expected in 2026.

"We anticipate that next year, the number of employees’ applications will reach roughly the same level as in 2021 if the Finnish economy recovers as has been forecast. According to the latest estimate, employees will submit 11,000 applications this year and 15,000 next year," said Johannes Hirvelä, Director of Development.

These forecasts, published by the Finnish Immigration Service three times a year, aim to provide a more precise overview of the expected number of applications.

Meanwhile, the number of applications for study permits in Finland is projected to remain high, as authorities anticipate continued growth in the number of international students, reinforcing Finland’s status as a stable study destination.

More specifically, the Finnish Immigration Service expects that the number of international students in Finland will reach 15,000 in 2025, followed by an increase to 16,000 in 2026. Despite tighter immigration rules, the number of international students is still expected to grow by 1,000 annually.

"More stringent rules have been imposed on students’ immigration. Finland has nevertheless remained an attractive country for students, as international students have an extensive right to work in Finland, they can also bring their families here, and while the tuition fees have increased, Finnish fees are not exceptionally high by international comparison," Hirvelä stated.

The Director also highlighted that most newcomers are from South Asian countries, particularly regions with high unemployment rates among graduates, such as India.

In addition to work and study permits, Finnish authorities anticipate that between 2,000 and 3,000 people will apply for asylum in Finland in 2025. The Finnish Immigration Service also expects a steady influx of applicants seeking temporary protection, primarily from Ukraine.

However, the number of asylum and temporary protection applications could be affected by developments in Ukraine or in neighboring regions of the European Union.

According to the labor federation Akava, Finland granted a total of 42,200 residence permits in 2023, marking a decrease of 6,700 compared to the previous year.

By fLEXI tEAM