Finland is reviewing its employment policy for foreigners. Learn about the new rules that allow changing jobs without a new permit, new job search deadlines, and obligations for employers

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From June 11, 2025, Finland is introducing significant changes to immigration and labor legislation that will make it easier for holders of work-based residence permits to find employment. The new rules provide more freedom to change professions, reduce bureaucracy, and support the stability of foreign workers in the labor market.

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What will change for foreigners working in Finland?

Previously, persons with a residence permit under an employment contract were tied to a specific profession or position. To change their field of activity, a new application for a permit was required. Now this is not necessary - if we are talking about vacancies from the official list of shortage professions.

From June 11, 2025, holders of a work-based residence permit can freely change jobs within shortage professions without obtaining a new permit.

The innovation does not apply to all professions, only to those that Finland has officially recognized as having a shortage of personnel.

Which professions are on the shortage list?

The list currently includes key professions in the fields of medicine, social care and security. These include:

- Nurses

- Doctors

- Dentists

- Pharmacists

- Practical nurses

- Physiotherapists

- Occupational therapists

- Radiologists

- Midwives

- Social workers

- Daycare workers

- Firefighters

- Paramedics

- Elderly care workers

The list will be reviewed at least once a year, and the first changes could come into effect as early as 2026.

Why is Finland taking this step?

Finland has a serious shortage of personnel in the fields of health care, social care and public security. The new rules aim to:

- Attract foreign specialists to critical sectors.

- Reduce the administrative pressure on immigration services.

- Retain skilled workers already in the country.

This is also part of Finland’s long-term strategy to attract and integrate international talent.

Notification of termination of employment contract: new obligation for employers

Starting in June 2025, employers are required to notify the Finnish Migration Service (Migri) of early termination of employment with a foreign employee within 14 days via the Enter Finland portal.

Previously, such notification was voluntary. Now, a fine is imposed for violation.

This rule does not apply to occasional or temporary additional work that is not the main place of employment.

New deadlines for finding a job after dismissal

Foreigners who have lost their job have a limited time to find a new place to stay in order not to lose their residence permit:

- 3 months is the standard period for most employees.

- 6 months – for specialists, EU Blue Card holders and those who have lived in Finland for more than 2 years on the basis of a work permit.

Practical advice for holders of residence permits in Finland

- If you change your place of employment to one of the shortage professions after June 11, 2025 – you do not need to submit a new application for a permit.

- Follow the updates of the list of professions, especially in early 2026.

- In case of dismissal – actively look for a new job within the established deadlines to avoid losing your status.

- Make sure that the employer complies with the new Migri notification requirements.

Finland is taking an important step towards foreign workers by lowering barriers to mobility in the labor market. The new rules provide more opportunities for career development, protect the status of workers and facilitate integration into Finnish society.

This is beneficial for migrants, employers, and the economy as a whole – because it allows you to quickly fill vacancies in important areas without wasting time on unnecessary bureaucracy.

Need help with a job change or residence permit in Finland? Contact Visit Ukraine migration specialists! Our experts will help you:

- Assess your status and opportunities according to the new rules

- Prepare documents for extension or change of permit

- Find a job in the list of scarce professions

- Avoid violations and fines

Get individual advice right now — quickly, conveniently, online!

Reminder! Finland attracts tourists and expats from all over the world with a high standard of living. We have already told you whether Finland will accept foreigners in 2025, how to move to Finland for citizens of different countries, which cities are the most popular for living among foreigners and more about the pros and cons of living in Finland.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents for Finland;

Legal advice on immigration to Finland;

Travel insurance for foreigners in Finland;

Medical insurance all over the world.

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