Finland Updates Seasonal Work Permit Rules 2026: What Foreign Workers and Employers Need to Know

Helsinki, May 18, 2026 — Finland has issued updated guidelines for seasonal work permits as demand for foreign labor continues to rise in key sectors such as agriculture, horticulture, forestry, tourism, and hospitality. The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) has reminded both workers and employers of the available options and requirements for hiring and working legally in seasonal roles, including berry picking.

Finland updates seasonal work permit rules 2026 – visa, certificate, residence permit for up to 9 months.

Who Needs a Seasonal Work Permit?

Foreign nationals from outside the EU/EEA (European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland) must obtain a seasonal work permit to work in Finland. EU/EEA citizens do not require any permit.

Seasonal work includes jobs in:

• Horticulture and agriculture

• Forestry

• Tourism and hospitality

• Wild berry picking

Types of Seasonal Work Permits in Finland

The type of permit required depends on the duration of the work:

Duration	Permit Type	Who Should Apply	Issued By
Up to 90 days	Visa for Seasonal Work	Nationals who need a visa	Finnish Embassies / Missions
Up to 90 days	Certificate for Seasonal Work	Visa-exempt nationals	Finnish Immigration Service
3 to 9 months	Residence Permit for Seasonal Work	All third-country nationals	Finnish Immigration Service

Important Note: Seasonal work lasting between 6 and 9 months requires labour market testing (checking if suitable local or EU workers are available first).

Application Process & Recommendations

The Finnish Immigration Service strongly recommends submitting applications online through the Enter Finland portal, which offers:

• Lower processing fees

• Faster decision times

• Ability for employers to supplement applications easily

Employers can create an account in Enter Finland for Employers to add required information about the job, salary, and working conditions. This significantly speeds up processing.

Special Rules for Ukrainian Citizens

Holders of a temporary protection residence permit in Finland have an unrestricted right to work, including in seasonal jobs. They do not need a separate seasonal work permit. However, temporary protection can only be granted in one EU country at a time.

Important Rules for Seasonal Workers

• You may only work for the employer named on your permit.

• If you want to change employers or add a new one, you must apply for an amendment.

• If your current seasonal visa or certificate is expiring and you wish to continue working, you should apply for a residence permit for seasonal work before it expires.

Guidance for Employers

Employers must:

• Always verify the employee’s right to work before they start.

• Provide proper accommodation and working conditions that meet Finnish standards.

• Use the Enter Finland for Employers service to submit employment terms (strongly recommended for faster processing).

• Notify authorities through the e-Građani system (or equivalent) when employment ends.

Why This Matters in 2026

Finland, like many European countries, faces growing labor shortages in seasonal industries. These clear guidelines aim to make legal hiring easier while ensuring proper oversight and protection for both workers and employers.

With tourism and agriculture seasons approaching, authorities are encouraging timely applications to avoid delays.

For the latest updates, detailed guides, and application support for Finland seasonal work permits, residence permits, and temporary protection rules, visit: visasupdate.com/blog/categories/finland