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Temporary extension to foreign workers’ right to work to expire in October

Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment
Publication date 23.10.2020 11.01
Press release

Due to the coronavirus epidemic, the Government made legislative amendments in the spring to allow third-country nationals residing in Finland with a residence permit or a permit based on the Seasonal Workers Act to change employer and field of employment without applying for an extended permit. The amendments enabled such foreigners to work in duties central to the security of supply and to the functioning of the labour market. The temporary provisions will remain in force until 31 October 2020.

“The amendment alleviated the shortage of labour in sectors essential to the security of supply during the emergency conditions. At that time, the borders were closed and seasonal workers were needed in agriculture. However, the situation is different now and there is no need to extend the temporary regulation,” says Sonja Hämäläinen, Migration Director at the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment.

“We will return to the normal practice from the beginning of November. However, the Ministry continues to monitor the situation and will make amendments to the regulations if necessary,” Hämäläinen says.

From the start of November, immigrants can no longer change occupation from the sector mentioned in the first residence permit to another sector without applying for an extended permit. With an extended permit, the change of occupation is possible.

Inquiries:
Sonja Hämäläinen, Migration Director, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 295 047 112
 

 
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