Record-breaking Immigration to Finland in 2022

In 2022, Finland experienced an unprecedented surge in immigration, with a record-breaking 49,998 individuals choosing the country as their new home, as reported by Statistics Finland. This remarkable figure represents a substantial increase of 14,000 to 21,000 immigrants compared to previous years. According to Johannes Hirvelä, the director of development at the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri), one significant contributing factor to this surge was the scrapping of entry restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. This move allowed for the release of pent-up demand and opened doors for individuals from various backgrounds to pursue opportunities in Finland.

Diverse Immigrant Profiles and Source Countries

The increased immigration to Finland in 2022 was not limited to any specific category, as various permit types experienced growth. Work-based permits, students, and family members all contributed to the rising numbers. However, one notable exception to this trend was the lack of growth in asylum seekers.

Russia emerged as the largest source country for immigrants, reaching a 30-year high with approximately 6,000 individuals relocating to Finland. The last time Finland witnessed such significant immigration from a single country was in 1991 when around 5,500 people moved from the Soviet Union. Following Russia, other prominent source countries included Sweden, India, Estonia, and the Philippines. Notably, the statistics did not incorporate Ukrainians fleeing the Russian invasion, as they were granted temporary protection instead of residence permits. Migri reported that over 47,000 Ukrainians applied for temporary protection in Finland in 2022.

Driving Factors: Work Opportunities and Study Programs

Finland’s attractiveness to immigrants can be attributed to a combination of factors, particularly work opportunities and study programs. The country’s labor shortage has led to the development of international recruitment networks, with immigrants from various countries, such as the Philippines, finding employment as domestic helpers or practical nurses. Finland’s relatively low tuition fees and quality education system have also made it an appealing destination for foreign students. However, it is important to note that there may be limitations to the growth potential of study programs taught in English due to capacity constraints.