Educated immigrants protest proposed changes to immigration policy in Helsinki

Educated immigrants in Finland have expressed concern about the government's stance on work-based immigration outlined in the recently finalized government program. The program stipulates that work-based residence permit holders must leave the country if they fail to find re-employment within three months after their previous employment ends. Employers will be required to inform the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) of the termination of employment for permit holders.

The strict three-month requirement is seen as challenging for professionals in certain sectors, especially when employment ends in late spring when recruitment is limited. Protesters fear that these provisions will negatively impact Finland's appeal and that some individuals may choose Sweden or Denmark instead. The government program also proposes changes to the conditions for acquiring nationality and permanent residence permits to encourage immigrant integration.

The Finland Chamber of Commerce has criticized the program for lacking substantial measures to promote work-based immigration, warning that labor shortages could hinder economic growth and competitiveness.