Migri forecasts fewer work permit applications in 2025

The number of work permit applications is likely to drop this year, according to the updated estimates of residence permit application numbers published by the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) on Tuesday.

The Migri’s foresight network estimated that the numbers of first applications for work permits will continue to drop during the current year but start growing again in 2026.

The downturn in the Finnish economy reduced the number of applications on the basis of employment last year.

“We anticipate that next year, the number of employees’ applications will reach roughly the same level as in 2021 if the Finnish economy recovers as has been forecast. According to the latest estimate, employees will submit 11,000 applications this year and 15,000 next year,” said Migri´s Director of Development Johannes Hirvelä.

In 2024, the Migri received 15,024 applications for a first work-based residence permit and the was about 12% lower than in 2023.

The number of international students is, however, expected to continue its record-breaking growth, with application numbers reaching 15,000 in 2025 and 16,000 in 2026.

The number of applications for a first residence permit for studies was 14,163 in 2024, which was 12,867 in 2023 but fewer students (12,192) were granted residence permit in 2024 compared to 2023(12,795).

“More stringent rules have been imposed on students’ immigration. Finland has nevertheless remained an attractive country for students, as international students have an extensive right to work in Finland, they can also bring their families here, and while the tuition fees have increased, Finnish fees are not exceptionally high by international comparison. Students are currently arriving in Finland from South Asian countries, in particular, where such factors as the relatively high unemployment rate of higher education graduates drives emigration,” said Hirvelä.

Meanwhile, despite conflicts and crises in Europe’s neighbouring regions, the number of asylum seekers arriving in Finland is expected to remain moderate this year. It is estimated that 2,000 to 3,000 first asylum applications will be submitted in 2025.

It is also expected that a steady stream of applicants for temporary protection Ukrainian refugees this year.

However, sudden changes in the situation in Ukraine or in the European Union’s neighbouring regions may have a significant impact on the numbers of refugee and asylum applications.