Finland has announced the opening of an application portal for Nigerians and other foreign workers seeking job employment in the country.
The Finnish Immigration Service, in a notice, announced the official opening of the Finland Seasonal Work Permit 2025, providing foreign workers with opportunities in agriculture, forestry, and tourism.
It was gathered that the move reflects Finland’s ongoing efforts to attract international talent to fill critical gaps in its workforce.
Under the imitative, Finland offers several types of work permits depending on the nature and duration of employment. Nigerians and other foreign workers can apply for the following, depending on their circumstances:
Residence Permit for an Employed Person: This is the most common permit for non-EU nationals who have secured a job offer from a Finnish employer. It is typically required for permanent or long-term positions in fields like IT, healthcare, or engineering. Applicants must demonstrate a job offer, sufficient income (meeting Finland’s income requirement), and sometimes specific qualifications.
Seasonal Work Permits: For shorter-term opportunities, Finland has a robust seasonal work program, particularly in agriculture (e.g., berry picking) and tourism (e.g., ski resorts in Lapland). Workers can apply for a seasonal work visa (up to 90 days) or a residence permit (up to 9 months), depending on the job’s duration. This is an attractive option for those seeking temporary employment with the possibility of returning in future seasons.
The application process typically begins online via EnterFinland, followed by an in-person visit to a Finnish embassy or VFS Global centre (such as the one in Abuja, Nigeria) to submit biometric data and original documents. Processing times vary from one to three months, though fast-track options exist for certain high-demand roles.
Eligibility and Requirements for Nigerians
To take advantage of this opportunity, Nigerian applicants must meet specific criteria, which align with Finland’s immigration policies:
Job Offer: A prerequisite for most work permits is a confirmed job offer from a Finnish employer. Job portals like Work in Finland, Job Market Finland (Työmarkkinatori), and EURES list vacancies open to international candidates.
Valid Passport: A passport valid for at least 90 days beyond the intended stay is mandatory.
Financial Stability: Applicants must prove they can support themselves, either through their salary or personal funds, until their employment begins.
Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage valid in Finland is required for the duration of the stay.
Educational/Professional Qualifications: Depending on the job, certifications or degrees may need to be verified and legalized by Nigerian authorities and the Finnish embassy.
Application Fee: Fees vary by permit type (e.g., approximately €400-€600 for residence permits), payable online or at the embassy.
How to Apply
Nigerians interested in this opportunity should:
Search for Jobs: Use platforms like Work in Finland or EURES to find employers offering visa sponsorship.
Secure a Job Offer: Contact employers directly or through recruitment agencies.
Apply Online: Visit EnterFinland.fi to start the permit application, attaching the required documents like the job contract and passport.
Visit the Embassy: Book an appointment at the Finnish Embassy in Abuja or VFS Global to submit biometrics and originals.
Await Decision: Track the application status online and prepare for departure once approved.
