Finland Fast-Tracks Work Permit Processing Amid Skilled Labour Shortages

Finland is stepping up its game to tackle the urgent demand for skilled workers by speeding up the process for work-based residence permits, particularly for foreign experts with specialized skills.

This change is all about addressing the ongoing labor shortages in fields that need advanced qualifications, making it easier for those with essential knowledge to get into the country.

Quick Access for Skilled Professionals

The Finnish Immigration Service has reported a notable reduction in the time it takes to process residence permits for specialists, allowing for faster integration into Finland’s job market.

Now, for those with top-notch expertise, the average wait for a work-based residence permit is just nine days, down from 12 days in September 2023.

Foreign nationals with specialized skills or advanced degrees can now enjoy a more efficient application process, making it easier for high-skilled professionals to jump into Finland’s economy without long delays.

Who’s Considered a Specialist?

To be recognized as a specialist in Finland’s updated system, applicants need to meet certain requirements:

• Have an advanced degree or specialized skills gained through work experience.

• Earn at least €3,600 a month.

These requirements are designed to attract highly qualified individuals who can help fill the gaps in Finland’s workforce where advanced knowledge and specialized skills are crucial.

Faster Processing for Work Permit Applicants

The Finnish Immigration Service has made strides in speeding up the processing times for work permit applications, making it quicker for everyone looking to join the workforce:

• First-time work permit applications are now averaging just 23 days, a big drop from the 55 days it took last September.

• Rejections for work permit applications are now issued within 87 days, down from the previous 125 days.

These changes show Finland's dedication to smoothly integrating workers and responding quickly to applicants, which helps tackle labor shortages without unnecessary delays.

Quicker Processing for Study Permits

On top of work permits, Finland has also sped up the processing of residence permits for students. First-time study permit applicants can now expect a decision in about eight days, a significant improvement from the 36 days it took in 2023.

Keeping National Security a Priority

Ilkka Haahtela, the Director General of the Finnish Immigration Service, pointed out that these faster processing times don’t come at the expense of national security. The authorities are working closely with other agencies to ensure that security checks remain thorough.

Looking Ahead to More Improvements

The Finnish Immigration Service is aiming to make processing times even better in the next year, making Finland an even more appealing place for skilled workers and students.

The focus isn’t just on work permits; the country is also looking to cut down waiting times for asylum applications, showing a well-rounded approach to effective migration management.