Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment part of a cross-sectoral group to coordinate migration from Ukraine

The Ministry of the Interior has appointed a cross-sectoral group to coordinate migration to Finland following Russia’s attack on Ukraine. The group includes representatives from several ministries, the Finnish Immigration Service, the Association of Finnish Local and Regional Authorities and the Finnish Red Cross. Any developments concerning migration are closely monitored.

The objective of the group is to ensure that competent authorities have the means to solve any problems related to migrants’ entry into the country, reception, stay and employment. At the moment, the group deals with matters concerning seasonal workers, seasonal work permit procedures, the possibility of temporary protection and the streamlining of application processes. 

The group headed by the Ministry of the Interior includes representatives from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, Ministry of Education and Culture, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Finnish Immigration Service, Association of Finnish Local and Regional Authorities and the Finnish Red Cross. The group is operational until further notice and more members may be invited to join it. 

Finland monitors migration closely

Finland is preparing to receive Ukrainians, and the exchange of information within the central government and with international counterparts is close. If necessary, Finland is prepared both to receive a large number of migrants and to deal with long-term migration pressure. 

According to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), more than 670,000 Ukrainian people have been forced to flee their country. People will primarily migrate to Ukraine’s neighbouring countries and to countries with Ukrainian populations. 

The European Union is attempting to find a common solution to the situation. Ukrainians may move freely in the EU area with a biometric passport visa-free. However, the EU is also considering the possibility of temporary protection.

More information:
Press release by the Ministry of the Interior 
Finnish Immigration Service: Frequently asked questions on the situation in Ukraine