Finland Tightens Scrutiny on Wild Berry Pickers’ Visa Applications to Combat Labour Exploitation in 2026

Finland berry picker visa 2026: Migri tightens scrutiny on seasonal work permits.

Helsinki, May 26, 2026 — The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) has announced significantly stricter controls on seasonal work visa and residence permit applications for wild berry pickers, aiming to prevent labour exploitation and human trafficking in one of Finland’s most vulnerable seasonal sectors.

In a strongly worded press release issued on May 21, 2026, Migri confirmed that all applications from berry pickers — whether for seasonal work visas, certificates, or residence permits — will now undergo thorough background checks, with special focus on employer compliance and worker protection.

Why Finland Is Cracking Down

Finland’s wild berry picking industry has faced repeated scandals in recent years, with reports of exploited workers from Asia and Eastern Europe facing poor living conditions, debt bondage, unrealistic earnings targets, and restricted freedom of movement. These issues have damaged Finland’s international reputation and prompted calls for stronger oversight.

Tuuli Huhtilainen, Process Owner for residence permits for employed persons and seasonal work at Migri, stated:

"Tackling this issue is a top priority. We are committed to protecting our customers and society by preventing labour exploitation and human trafficking. That's why every berry picker's visa application undergoes rigorous scrutiny."

New Measures in 2026

Under the updated approach, Migri will:

• Conduct detailed reviews of employment contracts and working conditions

• Investigate the relationship between the worker and employer

• Check the employer’s compliance history and ability to meet obligations

• Request additional information from both applicants and employers when necessary

• Cooperate closely with other authorities (labour inspectors, police, and border control)

Key Consequences for Non-Compliance:

• Applications may be rejected if there are signs of exploitation

• Employers found violating rules may be banned from hiring seasonal workers for 3 to 12 months

• Repeated offenders risk longer bans and criminal investigations

Who Needs Which Permit?

• Visa for Seasonal Work (less than 3 months): For citizens who require a visa (processed by Ministry for Foreign Affairs)

• Certificate for Seasonal Work (less than 3 months): For visa-exempt nationals (processed by Migri)

• Residence Permit for Seasonal Work (3–9 months): Requires labour market testing and more detailed scrutiny

Wild berry picking is officially classified as seasonal work, making these permits mandatory for non-EU/EEA nationals.

Application Process & Requirements

All applicants must provide:

• Valid employment contract with clear terms

• Proof of suitable accommodation

• Health insurance

• Clean criminal record (in many cases)

Migri now places extra emphasis on ensuring contracts are realistic, wages are fair, and workers are not placed in situations of dependency or debt.

Advice for Berry Pickers and Employers

For Workers:

• Only accept contracts from registered, reputable employers

• Keep copies of all documents and contracts

• Report any signs of exploitation immediately to Finnish authorities

• Understand your rights under Finnish labour law

For Employers:

• Ensure full compliance with working conditions and wage standards

• Provide proper accommodation and transportation

• Maintain transparent recruitment practices

• Expect increased documentation requests from Migri

Broader Context

This crackdown is part of a wider European effort to protect seasonal workers while maintaining legal migration channels. Finland, like many Nordic countries, faces labour shortages in agriculture and tourism but is determined not to allow exploitation to undermine its humanitarian standards.

The move also reflects growing public and political pressure to ensure that seasonal work programs benefit both workers and the Finnish economy without creating parallel systems of vulnerability.

Looking Ahead

Migri has indicated that processing times for berry picker applications may be longer this season due to enhanced checks. Authorities encourage early applications and full transparency from both workers and employers.

As Finland continues to welcome seasonal workers — particularly for the important wild berry harvest — the message is clear: legal, fair, and transparent employment is welcome; exploitation will not be tolerated.

For the latest updates, detailed guides, application requirements, and 2026 policy changes regarding Finland Seasonal Work Visas, berry picker permits, and labour rights, visit: visasupdate.com/blog/categories/finland