Beginning June 11, 2025, Finland will simplify job limitations for holders of residence permits. Now, foreign employees can transition to high-demand positions such as nurses, doctors, and firefighters without the need to reapply for a new permit. Continue reading for the comprehensive list of applicable occupations.
On June 11, 2025, Finland will enact significant changes in its immigration policy, granting foreign workers enhanced liberty to change jobs without the cumbersome application processes.
The revised rules will permit individuals with a work-related residence permit to pursue jobs outside of the original profession linked to their permit. They will have the freedom to work in any officially recognized labor shortage occupation without having to obtain a new residence permit.
What’s Changing?
Current Rule: Individuals holding a residence permit must submit a new application for a residence permit aligned with a different job title or profession in order to transition to another occupation.
New Rule (From June 11, 2025): Holders of residence permits will have the opportunity to take up roles that are included in Finland’s shortage occupation list, without the requirement of acquiring a new permit.
Why Is Finland Making This Change?
Finland is facing a growing labor gap in vital industries, particularly in healthcare, social services, and public safety. By relaxing job restrictions, the Finnish government seeks to:
- Optimize the skills of foreign professionals already residing in the country
- Accelerate recruitment in sectors with a shortage of staff
- Lighten the administrative load for immigration services
This adjustment in policy is also consistent with Finland’s broader strategy to attract and retain global talent.
Also Read: Foreign Workers in Finland Face 3 Months Job Search Limits from June 2025
Duration and Review of Occupation List
The updated shortage occupation list will come into effect on June 11, 2025, and will remain valid for an initial period of one year. However, officials have indicated that this list will be reviewed periodically, with the first updates expected in early 2026. This allows for a responsive approach to changes in the job landscape and economic demands.
List of Shortage Occupations (Valid from June 11, 2025)
Below is the official enumeration of shortage roles wherein residence permit holders will be permitted to work without reapplying for a new permit:
| Occupation | Profession Code (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Nurses (General and Specialist) | 2221, 2222 |
| Doctors (General Practitioners and Specialists) | 2211, 2212 |
| Dentists | 2261 |
| Pharmacists | 2262 |
| Practical Nurses / Licensed Caregivers | 5321 |
| Physiotherapists | 2264 |
| Occupational Therapists | 2269 |
| Radiographers | 2265 |
| Midwives | 2230 |
| Social Workers | 2635 |
| Childcare Workers / Kindergarten Assistants | 5311 |
| Firefighters | 5411 |
| Paramedics / Emergency Medical Technicians | 3258 |
| Elderly Care Workers | 5329 |
Note: The contents of this list may be altered in response to the nation's labor needs.
Also Read: Finland to Open New Consulate in India on June 9, Easing Schengen Visa Process
What This Means for Residence Permit Holders
This transformation presents several notable advantages for current residence permit holders:
- Greater Career Flexibility: No longer constrained to a single profession, individuals can now pursue diverse prospects in thriving industries.
- Minimized Bureaucracy: The removal of the necessity for a new residence permit application streamlines the process, saving time, resources, and potential expenses.
- Contribution to Finnish Society: By filling essential roles, expatriates play a greater role in bolstering Finland’s economy and public services.
- Increased Job Security: If an individual’s current employment ceases, they have a clearer path to securing new work within the specified shortage fields, potentially reducing the chance of permit cancellation.
(It is important to keep in mind that the new regulations will also include a three-month job search window for most individuals, and six months for specialists, after which their permit could be revoked if they do not secure employment).
What Should Residence Permit Holders Do?
- No requirement to apply for a new permit when switching to any position on the shortage list after June 11, 2025.
- Stay informed of updates in early 2026 when modifications to the list may occur.
- Ensure your employer adheres to all legal and contractual stipulations.
Final Thoughts
This policy alteration signifies a favorable development for both foreign workers and Finnish employers. It enhances job mobility for migrants who are already contributing to the economy in Finland and aids in bridging critical labor shortages in crucial services.
As the job market continues to shift, adaptable immigration laws like this will be essential for maintaining Finland’s competitiveness and inclusivity.
Fonte: Travelo Biz
