Finland
Finland Opens Applications for Seasonal Work Permits for Berry Pickers. The Finnish Immigration Service has announced that applications for seasonal work permits are now open for individuals wishing to work as berry pickers in Finland later this year. This annual opportunity allows migrant workers to apply for permits that enable them to work in Finland’s thriving berry-picking industry.
Who Can Apply?
Every year, Finland, along with several other Scandinavian and Baltic countries, welcomes migrant workers to participate in seasonal work, particularly in berry picking. To apply, individuals must already have secured a job offer from a Finnish employer, along with a signed work contract and agreement outlining their prospective work and pay.
Applicants must provide proof of this agreement when applying for the seasonal work permit, which includes a seasonal work visa, a certificate for seasonal work, or a residence permit for seasonal work. The type of permit required depends on the duration of the work.
Work Lasting Three Months or Fewer
For those planning to work in Finland for three months or fewer, the application process varies depending on the applicant’s country of origin.
- Visa-Required Countries: Applicants must apply for a seasonal work visa at a Finnish embassy or consulate.
- Visa-Free Countries: Applicants can apply for a “certificate for seasonal work” directly through the Finnish Immigration Service.
The certificate costs €250 for paper applications and €100 for electronic processing. It is tied to a specific employer, and workers are only permitted to work for the employer named on the certificate. Adding a new employer requires a separate application.
Applicants must also demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay, with a minimum monthly income requirement of €1,430 in 2025 if no collective agreement applies to their sector. Additionally, they must have a valid passport and proof of appropriate accommodation meeting Finnish health and safety standards.
Work Lasting Three to Nine Months
For seasonal work lasting between three and nine months, applicants must apply for a “residence permit for seasonal work” through the Finnish Immigration Service.
- Electronic Application: €380 for the first permit; €170 for extensions.
- Paper Application: €480 for the first permit; €430 for extensions.
This permit is also employer-specific, and workers must apply to add new employers to their valid permit. Seasonal workers can hold a permit for a maximum of nine months within a 12-month period.
Similar to shorter permits, applicants must prove they meet minimum income requirements and have appropriate accommodation arranged. Family members of seasonal workers are not eligible for residence permits based on family ties.
Legislative Changes to Protect Workers
In response to past issues in the wild berry sector, Finland’s Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment has introduced legislative changes set to take effect in February 2025. These changes aim to better protect seasonal workers and ensure fair working conditions.
Under the new rules, companies must employ foreign berry pickers under a contractual employment relationship. This measure addresses previous concerns, including allegations of exploitation and human trafficking, which arose when some workers entered Finland on Schengen tourist visas.
The government has committed to monitoring the impact of these changes and implementing further measures if necessary to combat exploitation in the berry-picking industry.
How to Apply
Applicants are encouraged to visit the Finnish Immigration Service website for detailed information on the application process and requirements. Decisions on applications are typically made within 90 days of submission.
