The Finnish government has released a new list of occupations experiencing critical labour shortages in 2025, creating new opportunities for skilled foreign professionals to secure work-based residence permits.
According to Travelobiz, only 42,200 residence permits were granted to foreign workers in 2023, representing a 13.76% decline from 2022.
The downward trend has continued in 2024, with just 11,000 work permit applications filed, a drop of 4,000 compared to the previous year.
The permit is tied to the employer and position, and applicants must meet several eligibility requirements:
Residence permits are typically granted for one to two years, with the option for renewal if employment continues.
The Finnish government is implementing new regulations that could require faster departure from the country for foreign workers who lose their jobs to improve the efficiency of the immigration process and ensure that only actively employed individuals retain work-based residence rights.
While the IT sector has traditionally attracted the largest number of foreign professionals, permit approvals in the field have declined in recent years. Rising unemployment rates among tech graduates and increased demand for highly specialised roles are contributing to the shift, making the sector more competitive for job seekers.
Despite regulatory adjustments, Finland continues to offer incentives for skilled foreign workers, which include a stable job market with clear pathways to permanent residency, high living standards, healthcare, and infrastructure, and family reunification rights and access to public services for dependents.