Finland continues to rebuild its workforce and attract skilled foreign professionals, offering legal employment and the possibility to bring your spouse and children through family reunification. Recent immigration changes in 2025 aim both to support economic needs and tighten some residence and family visa rules, so it’s important to know the latest requirements if you want to work and live in Finland with your family.
Latest Finland Immigration Updates for 2025
From January 1, 2025, Finland introduced a minimum income requirement for work-based residence permits. Skilled workers generally must earn at least €1,600 per month to qualify for a permit — this ensures that foreign employees can financially support themselves and any family members who join them. Higher thresholds apply for specialist roles.
In June 2025, Finland introduced new family reunification rules. These include a minimum age of 21 years for spouses to qualify for a permit based on marriage or partnership if neither spouse is a Finnish citizen. Other changes affect residence periods for protected persons and definitions related to minors.
Despite tighter family-based immigration rules, the digital visa processing system (“Enter Finland”) now allows work permits and dependent permits to be applied for simultaneously, and spouses often receive work authorization without a separate permit.
In-Demand Skilled Jobs in Finland
- Healthcare workers (registered nurses, caregivers)
- Manufacturing and machine operators
- Construction trades (electricians, plumbers, carpenters)
- Industrial technicians and mechanics
- IT professionals and software developers
- Welders and metal fabricators
- Truck drivers and logistics specialists
- Hospitality and restaurant staff
Family Reunification in Finland
Foreign workers holding a valid residence permit based on employment can apply to bring immediate family members. Family reunification generally covers:
- Spouse or registered partner
- Children under 18 years old
Your family will receive residence permits tied to your status, giving them access to schooling, healthcare, and eventual pathways to long-term residency. The sponsor (you) must meet financial requirements to support dependents. Recent rule changes also introduced an age minimum for spouses (21 years old) unless the sponsor is a Finnish citizen.
Work Permit Requirements
- Signed job contract from a Finnish employer
- Valid passport
- Proof of relevant work experience
- Educational certificates or vocational training
- Police clearance and medical certificate
- Proof of monthly income meeting Finland’s minimum (€1,600 or higher)
- Proof of ability to support yourself and dependents
- English or basic Finnish communication skills
Qualifications Needed
- 2–5 years of work experience in your field
- Vocational diploma, professional certificate, or degree
- Language skills — English accepted by many employers, Finnish advantageous
- Technical tests or interviews for certain skilled trades
Benefits of Working in Finland
- Competitive salaries and strong worker protections
- Free public education for children
- Access to national healthcare and social services
- Family reunification rights
- Pathway to long-term residence and citizenship
- Safe environment and quality of life
Legit Hiring and Recruitment Agencies
Below are agencies and staffing organizations known for legal and transparent cooperation with employers in Finland. Always verify accreditation and do not pay large fees upfront:
- Barona Finland – Staffing for industrial, IT, and services sectors
- Opteam Finland – Hospitality, healthcare, logistics
- StaffPoint Finland – Restaurants, industrial support, customer service
- East-West Placement Services – Global recruitment partner for Scandinavia
- Magsaysay Global Services – International manpower network
Tips Before You Apply
- Use the official Enter Finland portal to submit permits online
- Always confirm agency legitimacy with your local labor or immigration authority
- Ensure your salary and contract meet updated Finland requirements
- Prepare family documents (marriage, birth certificates) early
Finland’s updated immigration system aims to balance labor market needs with sustainable integration policies. If you have the skills and a job offer, Finland still offers a strong route to working legally and bringing your family along — but it’s essential to meet the new financial and legal criteria of 2025.
