Finnish Companies Could Benefit from Foreign Workers, Study Finds

Helsinki, 2025 – A new study from the Finnish Institute of Economic Research (ETLA) reveals that foreign workers can significantly boost Finland’s export-driven industries. However, Finland lags behind other Western countries in immigrant employment, suggesting challenges in integrating foreign-born workers into the economy.

According to the study, by 2023, foreign-born individuals made up 6.7% of Finland’s population, yet their participation in the labor market remains relatively low.

Foreign Workers’ Role in Export Growth

Since the 1990s, the number of immigrants in Finland has steadily increased. Researchers found that hiring foreign workers has a strong positive effect on a company’s exports, with this impact persisting over the long term.

The study also highlighted that companies employing foreign workers tend to diversify their export markets and are more likely to engage in trade with employees’ home countries.

“The results suggest that measures to promote the employment of immigrants, particularly in export-oriented sectors, can have positive effects on business performance and international trade. Foreign workers play a crucial role in establishing trade connections, including with their countries of origin,” said Terhi Maczulskij, Research Manager at ETLA.

However, the study also pointed out that ethnic discrimination remains a major barrier to immigrant employment in Finland.

Finland Continues to Tighten Immigration Rules

Despite the economic benefits of hiring foreign workers, Finland has been moving toward stricter policies for foreign nationals, particularly for those seeking permanent residency.

According to Interior Minister Mari Rantanen, the government’s objective is to ensure proper integration of immigrants into Finnish society.

“The aim of the government program is to encourage immigrants to follow Finnish societal norms, work, and learn the language. Successful integration will be a prerequisite for obtaining a permanent residence permit,” Rantanen emphasized.

New Criteria for Permanent Residency

Under the latest immigration reforms, foreigners applying for permanent residency must meet the following criteria:
- Six years of continuous residence in Finland.
- A minimum annual income threshold to prove financial stability.
- Proficiency in either Finnish or Swedish.
- Proof of education qualifications.

These measures have sparked mixed reactions—while Finland seeks economic growth through migrant labor, it is also implementing tougher barriers for long-term integration.