Migri has started applying tougher security rules, leading to revoked protections for some Iraqi and Russian nationals. Investigations into further cases are ongoing.
Finland is reviewing the situation of refugee statuses in light of strengthened national security in migration policy. According to data from the immigration service Migri, all individuals who lost their status in the past or current years were citizens of Iraq and Russia. In particular, nine people had refugee status, five had subsidiary protection.
Currently Migri is examining another 15 cases involving citizens from Iraq, Russia, and three other countries.
It is noted that revoking refugee status on grounds of security threats became possible only since January 2025 following changes in the legislation.
Changes to the law on revoking permanent residence permits took effect in May of the same year.
Previously, the existence of a crime could be a basis for considering the withdrawal of refugee status, but this was not sufficient for its actual loss.
Context and implications for migration policy
According to Migri, last year a record number of deportation decisions of foreigners convicted of crimes and residing in the country were made; among them are Russians.
In the new register of revocation processes, up to 15 cases from different countries may appear, underscoring a shift in approaches to national security and Finland’s migration policy.
Such developments show Finland’s intent to strengthen security controls in the context of migration processes.
In summary, changes in the law and Migri’s practice demonstrate the country’s orientation toward a stricter approach to those whose activities or background pose a threat to national security.
Finland deprived several Russians of refugee status over a national security threat