Finland Sets €1,600 Minimum Wage for Foreign Workers Seeking Residence

New Minimum Income Threshold for Foreign Workers in Finland

As of January 1, 2025, foreign employees arriving in Finland with a working person residence permit must earn at least €1,600 per month to work in Finland. This increase aims to ensure that employees can cover their living costs in Finland. Previously, the minimum income requirement was €1,399 per month, or a salary in accordance with the applicable collective agreement

Key Points to Note

The new minimum income threshold applies to all applications for a first residence permit for an employed person and for an extension permit from April 1, 2025.

Employers can provide up to 50% of the salary in the form of benefits, such as a company car or accommodation allowance.

The Aliens Act states that applicants with sufficient financial resources are those who won't rely on social assistance.

The employment-based residence permit is the most common employment-based residence permit issued in Finland, with 9,104 applications submitted from January to November 2024.