Finland Explores Points-Based Immigration System to Reform Work-Based Migration
The Finnish Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment has released a report examining international labour migration models, including points-based systems, as part of efforts to develop work-based immigration. The study, commissioned by Minister of Employment Matias Marttinen, compares different approaches used abroad and assesses their potential applicability in Finland.
The report highlights that points-based systems evaluate applicants based on predefined criteria such as education, language skills, work experience, and age. These models vary in structure, with some countries using a ranking system—where only the highest-scoring applicants are selected—and others employing a threshold model, where applicants must meet a minimum score to qualify.
Finland’s current immigration system is employer-driven, requiring applicants to secure a job offer before applying for a residence permit. Permit conditions differ depending on whether the applicant is a specialist or a blue-collar worker, with additional government-set criteria, such as minimum income requirements, applying in both cases.
Key Findings and International Comparisons
The Ministry’s report suggests that while points-based systems could be adapted for Finland, their implementation would require clear objectives and well-defined scoring criteria. A shift to such a model could increase administrative burdens for migrants, employers, and authorities, meaning the benefits would need to justify the additional costs.
Among the models reviewed, Canada’s competitive ranking system was deemed less suitable for Finland. Instead, the New Zealand model—a threshold-based approach where applicants must meet a minimum points requirement—was identified as a more promising alternative (MTV Uutiset). Unlike Canada’s system, which prioritises the highest-scoring candidates, New Zealand’s model focuses on eligibility, potentially aligning better with Finland’s labour market needs.
The report also notes that in countries using points-based systems, such as Germany and Austria, the government plays a more central role in selecting applicants. These models are often used to fast-track permanent residency or grant residence permits for job-seeking purposes to highly skilled individuals.
Future Considerations
Minister Marttinen welcomed the report, stating that it provides valuable insights for policymakers considering reforms to Finland’s work-based immigration system. However, any transition to a points-based model would require careful planning to ensure it meets Finland’s specific economic and labour market goals.
The Ministry emphasises that while the current employer-driven system remains in place, the report opens discussions on how Finland could refine its approach to attract skilled workers more effectively.