Visa Applications Open for Seasonal Work in Finland

Introduction

Individuals interested in traveling to Finland for seasonal berry picking can now submit their visa applications. The Finnish Migration Service has announced the opening of work permits specifically for seasonal workers.

Seasonal Work Opportunities

Every year, migrant workers from Finland and various Scandinavian and Baltic countries have the opportunity to apply for seasonal work permits. Those granted permission can work as berry pickers during the berry harvesting season. In February, the Finnish immigration authorities confirmed that it is now possible to apply for work permits, which provide a visa, certificate, and permission to reside in Finland for seasonal employment.

Requirements for Applicants

The Finnish authorities emphasize that applicants must secure an offer from a Finnish employer before applying. It is essential to have a work contract that outlines the potential job and salary details with the employer. This contract must be presented alongside the visa application.

Short-Term Work Permits

For employment lasting three months or less, applicants must apply for a seasonal work visa at their home country's Finnish embassy or consulate. Those coming from visa-free countries who have received a job offer to pick wild berries can directly apply for a “Seasonal Work Certificate” through Finnish immigration services. The application fee for this certificate is €250 (approximately 31,000 Bangladeshi Taka), in addition to a processing fee of €100 (about 12,000 Bangladeshi Taka).

Furthermore, to work under a specific employer, the employee's name must be explicitly mentioned on the work permit. To add a new employer’s name to the certificate, a separate application is required.

Decisions on applications will be made within 90 days. Applicants must demonstrate adequate financial resources, ensuring that they would earn a minimum monthly salary of €1,430 (around 181,000 Bangladeshi Taka) during their employment in Finland.

Long-Term Work Permits

For those wishing to work in Finland for a duration of three to nine months, an application for a “Residential Permit for Seasonal Work” is necessary. This process entails an initial electronic processing fee of €380, with additional costs for extending residency permits.

Applicants must apply for a residence permit before arriving in Finland. If an applicant holds a short-term seasonal work certificate and wishes to extend their employment, they must apply for a residential permit before their current permit expires.

Compliance and Living Standards

A valid passport and proof of accommodations are mandatory for entry into Finland. The standard of living arrangements must meet Finland’s health and safety regulations, which include access to hot water and sufficient sleeping space.

Legislative Changes

The Finnish Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment has introduced legal changes effective February 2025. The government noted past crises in the berry-picking sector and highlighted the need for these changes. The amendments aim to enhance the rights of berry pickers and ensure fair wages and working conditions.

The government stated that companies will have to recruit foreign berry pickers on a contractual basis for them to enter Finland. Past complaints regarding the working environment and pay of foreign berry pickers have prompted these changes, which also seek to monitor the legal effects and address exploitation in the industry.

Conclusion

Finland's opening of visa applications for seasonal work marks an important opportunity for many looking to participate in the berry-picking season. Detailed guidelines on the application process and the recent legislative changes aim to promote a better working environment for seasonal workers in Finland. Interested individuals should ensure they meet all requirements and prepare their applications promptly to seize this opportunity.