An employment ministry panel has assessed the systems currently used by countries such as Canada and Australia, as the Finnish government considers its options.
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File photo of an integration class. Image: Petteri Juuti / Yle
Finland’s government is continuing to assess the viability of a points-based labour migration system, following the compiling of a report commissioned by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment.
The study examined similar models in different countries, and found that two systems are in use — one based on a competition between the applicants (the so-called ranking model) and the other on their eligibility (the threshold model).
“I’m pleased about this report that compares the different points-based immigration models internationally. It offers information to policy makers about the available options to develop work-based immigration in the future,” Minister of Employment Matias Marttinen (NCP) commented.
Marttinen commissioned the report last year, saying that Finland needs work-based immigration, but must find the right balance between attracting talent from abroad with a sustainable immigration policy.
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Finland’s employment minister Matias Marttinen (NCP) speaking in parliament. Image: Henrietta Hassinen / YlePoints mean permits
Under Finland’s current model of work-based immigration, an applicant for a working visa must have an existing employment relationship or an offer of employment. The applicant must also meet certain criteria set by the government, such as a minimum income requirement.
Under a points-based system however, an applicant’s suitability would be assessed using pre-defined criteria, such as education, language skills, work experience and age.
In the ranking or ‘competition’ model, which is currently used by Canada and Australia, applicants are ranked in order of preference and only those with the highest scores can apply for a work permit.
With the threshold or eligibility model, on the other hand, applicants must meet a pre-defined minimum score to receive a permit. This system is used in Germany and in New Zealand, for example.
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Canada introduced the world’s first points-based immigration system in 1967 (file photo of Toronto). Image: Ilmari Reunamäki / Yle
The ministry’s report found no reason why Finland should not introduce a points-based system, but noted that the models “would likely lead to more bureaucracy for migrants” as well as increase the administrative burden on authorities and employers.
“In order for additional investments in a points-based system to be worthwhile, the benefits to be achieved with the system should therefore be clear,” the report stated.
Mixed support among government MPs
The introduction of a points-based system has been on the government’s agenda since last year, when it was first floated by Christoffer Ingo of the Swedish People’s Party (SPP).
“The advantage of Canada’s model is that it sets clear targets for how many labour migrants are needed by region, language group and sector,” Ingo said at the time, adding that such a system would also benefit migrants — as it clearly defines what is required of people who want to move to Finland.
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (NCP) said the idea was worth considering, but Finns Party leader Riikka Purra was not immediately in favour.
Purra’s party colleague Mauri Peltokangas however noted that the points system could be expanded to also apply to asylum seekers.
“There is nothing wrong with applying points to humanitarian immigrants as well. There are a billion people in the world who need help. If Finland accepts a small fraction of them, I think it makes sense to prioritise those who are likely to adapt more easily to our society,” Peltokangas said.