A research project by the University of Eastern Finland and the University of Turku found that there is an unsustainable contradiction in the Finnish labor market: there is a growing shortage of skilled labor, but international talents face difficulties in finding employment and integrating into Finnish society. Addressing the situation requires swift and long-term measures.
Does Finland have what it takes to retain internationals?
Work-based immigration to Finland has remained relatively active. In 2023, over 16,000 first work-based residence permits were granted. However, experts are concerned about whether this positive trend in work-based immigration will continue and how well Finland can retain the workers who move here. For example, applications for residence permits from specialists have been declining for several years.
International talent services don’t sufficiently support employment
Based on research interviews, international talents appreciate the stability of Finnish society, the work-life balance, and high-quality public services, such as those for families. However, many feel that their expertise is not valued, as employment requires proficiency in the Finnish language and personal networks.
From the perspective of international talents, there is room for improvement in employment and entrepreneurship services. They see that the service system is fragmented, services are difficult to use, and service providers lack expertise in recognizing skills, guiding clients, and language skills. Current residence permit practices also influence international talents' views, making entrepreneurship less attractive as a career option.
Attitudes must change, services must improve, and international talents must be included in decision-making
The policy recommendations of the research project highlight several areas for change. Finland needs a long-term vision that clearly outlines the goals for immigration of international talent, the service promise for those moving to Finland, and a vision of an inclusive society. Creating and implementing this vision requires closer cooperation between public actors and active involvement of international talents in societal decision-making and the development of public services.
Additionally, public services must be developed so that international talents can interact with authorities in all situations, at least in English. Public services should also be more actively communicated to both international talents seeking work and companies recruiting them. Companies need positive examples, peer support, and incentives for hiring their first international employee. Increasing the attractiveness of entrepreneurship, in turn, requires more flexible residence permit practices.
In the two-year joint research project funded by Business Finland, the University of Eastern Finland and the University of Turku examined the experiences of highly educated international talents regarding living, working, and entrepreneurship in Finland. The study involved interviews with more than sixty international talents from various backgrounds and mapping policies and public services affecting them.
HIWE Open Forum seminar. Photo Anna Elkina.
Further information:
Project Director, Associate Professor Tero Montonen, University of Eastern Finland, tero.montonen(at)uef.fi, +358 40 355 2074
Head of the Turku Sub-project, Professor Ulla Hytti, University of Turku, ulla.hytti(at)utu.fi, +358 40 540 9112
Project website: The website includes the project’s results as well as a variety of blog posts regarding international talent in Finland.
