This year, Finland had a noticeable decrease in work-based immigration, with fewer foreign workers applying for residence permits.

The Finnish Immigration Service, Migri, reported about 12,500 work permit applications in the first nine months of 2024, down 5% from the same period in 2023.

Despite the worldwide demand for skilled workers, Finland is finding it harder to attract foreign professionals. The country’s economic conditions and competition from other nations are clearly affecting immigration trends.

Sharp decline in specialist applications

Finland has come to depend more on foreign specialists in fields like technology and healthcare. However, in the first nine months of 2024, only 978 people applied for specialist residence permits—a 24% drop from last year’s 1,292 applications.

Arto Niemi, Head of Information Services at Migri, attributes this decline to global competition and Finland’s economic slowdown. 

“The drop reflects not only the economic situation but also the limited recruitment in health and social services and construction,” he explained.

This trend aligns with recent findings that many foreign professionals view Finland less positively due to stricter immigration laws and rising anti-immigrant sentiment.

A report by Finnish tech organizations revealed that nearly 90% of foreign workers feel uncomfortable with Finland’s immigration debate. This may deter applicants seeking a more welcoming environment abroad.

Surge in student applications bucks trend

Unlike work permits, student permit applications have steadily increased.

From January to September 2024, 11,749 students applied for Finnish residence permits, a 9% rise from last year. Most applicants are from Bangladesh, Nepal, and India.

Finland’s faster permit processing for students, averaging nine days per application, likely supports this growth, as the country has aimed to make it easier for international students to study in Finland.

Economic challenge limit appeal for foreign workers

Finland’s economic challenges are a key reason for the drop in work-based immigration. 

As the country’s GDP shrinks, industries like healthcare and construction have cut back on hiring. These sectors, which employ many foreign workers, now recruit fewer people, which reduces immigration numbers.

Competition for skilled labor within the EU has also grown, with countries like Germany and the Netherlands actively promoting their work environments to attract foreign talent.

Declining work permits on migrants, short-term visitors

The recent drop in work-based immigration could affect Finland’s attractiveness to both short-term workers and long-term migrants.

This shift comes as the EU plans to launch the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) in 2025, which will simplify entry for short-term visitors across Europe.

While the ETIAS may boost tourism and short visits to Finland, long-term migration might suffer if job opportunities continue to shrink.

Though Finland’s Schengen visa policy, in line with the EU, could help attract visitors, supporting long-term migration will require more.

Current trends show that without stronger support and a stable economy, Finland may lose out to nearby countries with better job markets and more inclusive immigration policies.

Drawing foreign talent with policy adjustments

Finland’s drop in immigration applications may lead the government to rethink its immigration strategy. With a shortage of specialists and labor gaps in various industries, officials might consider easing some policies.

Finland’s current approach has faced criticism, with some arguing that restrictive policies limit the country’s growth potential. Feedback from key sectors may encourage policymakers to take a more flexible approach.

As Finland’s economy remains uncertain, the government will need to balance immediate economic challenges with the long-term benefits of a diverse workforce. 

Adjusting immigration policies could help Finland compete globally for talent and potentially reverse the decline in work-based immigration.

Encouraging talent migration with policy reforms

As Finland seeks to maintain its position within the EU’s competitive labor market, policymakers face an urgent need to make Finland an appealing destination for skilled professionals and students. 

Finland’s ability to attract diverse talent will likely require more than streamlined visa processing—it may need a comprehensive shift towards welcoming and retaining foreign talent to boost economic resilience.