Finland Sees Decline in Work Permit Applications, Raising Labour Shortage Concerns

The number of work permit applications in Finland is declining, sparking concerns over a potential labour shortage. In 2024, only 11,000 work permits were issued, 4,000 fewer than in 2023 and 5,000 below 2022 levels.

- Tighter immigration rules could be discouraging foreign workers
- Trade unions urge the government to ease residence permit rules for university graduates
- Social and healthcare sectors are the most affected

Sharp Drop in Work Permit Applications Raises Alarm in Finland

According to Akava, Finland’s largest trade union confederation, the country issued 42,200 residence permits in 2023, 6,700 fewer than the previous year.

Decline in work permits in the healthcare sector:
- In Q4 2023, 598 work permits were issued for healthcare professionals.
- In Q4 2024, only 17 permits were granted.

"This decline has been ongoing for two years, and social and healthcare sectors have been hit the hardest," said Tomi Husa, an expert at Akava.

IT Specialists Still Lead, but Numbers Are Dropping

The IT sector remains the top industry for foreign workers, but it has also seen a decline.

"Unemployment among IT and tech graduates has risen significantly, yet demand for foreign specialists remains strong," Husa noted.

Finland Tightens Immigration Rules Despite Workforce Needs

Despite the growing need for workers, Finland continues to tighten regulations for residence permits and citizenship applications.

Akava is calling for easier permanent residence permits for foreigners who graduate from Finnish universities.

"We must invest in work-related language training and integration, regardless of the permit process schedule. We need long-term policies to promote work-based immigration and an open, international atmosphere. These are crucial for Finland’s economic growth," said Maria Löfgren, Akava’s Chair.

Finland has set an ambitious goal: The trade union confederation aims to triple the number of international specialists in the country. However, fewer foreigners are choosing Finland as their destination for work, study, or relocation.