Automated monitoring of entrepreneurs' residence permits begins

The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) will bring into use automated post-decision monitoring of startup entrepreneurs' residence permits on Wednesday, said Migri in a press release.

The purpose of post-decision monitoring is to verify that startup entrepreneurs still meet the permit requirements.

A residence permit for a startup entrepreneur can be granted to a person who establishes a startup company or owns a recently founded company that aims for growth.

Before applying for the permit, the entrepreneur must first obtain a positive eligibility statement from Business Finland. The Finnish Immigration Service will conduct automated monitoring of startup entrepreneurs' residence permits that have entered into force on January 1, 2023 or later.

Post-decision monitoring focuses on the key requirements for the residence permit for startup entrepreneurs. One of the monitored parameters is whether the entrepreneur has moved to Finland.

“Post-decision monitoring is an important tool in ensuring internal security, preventing misuse of the permit system and preventing illegal entry into Finland and illegal residence here. Post-decision monitoring will also help us detect labour exploitation and human trafficking,” said Pauliina Helminen, Director of Permit and Nationality Unit.

The Finnish Immigration Service has carried out post-decision monitoring since 2017.

Automated post-decision monitoring was used for the first time in the autumn of 2023 to help monitor students’ residence permits.