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The Finnish government has decided that only foreigners who earn at least €1,600 per month will be eligible to obtain residence permits through employment. The income threshold will become effective on January 1, 2025, mainly affecting skilled workers from third countries.
According to a press release by the Finnish Ministry for Economic Affairs and Employment, the income limit applies only to primary employment and other income is not included, Schengen.News reports.
Income Threshold Aims to Ensure That Foreigners in Finland Can Be Able to Support Themselves Financially
As the Ministry pointed out, this measure aims to ensure that the people coming to work in Finland get paid an amount that is sufficient for them to support themselves.
The proposal also supports the government’s objective of increasing the number of full-time workers in Finland. According to a report by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, the income limit of €1,600 has a minor impact on the availability of labour nationally.
The income threshold will mainly affect skilled workers, including other sectors like workers in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and administration and support services.
Income Thresholds Higher for Certain Positions
Obtaining residence permits in Finland have different income thresholds, which can vary between €1,030 to €3,638.
Those in specialist occupations must earn a minimum of €3,638 to obtain a residence permit in the country. Seasonal workers, on the other hand, must have a monthly salary of €1,399.
In addition, the authorities have pointed out that income can vary depending on the location, with those who live in Helsinki having higher income requirements than those in other municipalities that are less populated.
Certain categories are excluded from the income threshold, such as those who were granted a residence permit based on compassionate grounds, in addition to asylum seekers, quota refugees and family members of Finnish citizens or former Finnish citizens.
Source: https://schengen.news/finland-skilled-workers-must-earn-e1600-to-be-eligible-for-residence-permits-from-january-2025/
