Report: Points-based labour migration system can be used for different purposes
Labour migration models used in different countries were examined in a report by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment. A points-based system has been implemented and is being used in different ways in different countries. Introducing such a system in Finland would require the setting of a clear objective.
Finland’s current model of work-based immigration is based on employers’ demand for labour, which means that entering Finland requires an employment relationship or an offer of employment. In addition, the applicant must meet certain criteria set by the government, e.g. a minimum income requirement. The conditions for a permit vary depending on whether the person is coming to Finland as a specialist or blue collar worker.
“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,” says Minister of Employment Matias Marttinen, who commissioned the study.
Scoring may be based on threshold or ranking
The points-based immigration system means that applicants are assessed using pre-defined criteria, such as education, language skills, work experience and age.
The key difference between the models in various countries is whether the model is based on a competition between the applicants (ranking) or on their eligibility (threshold).
| How does it work? | Conditions | Used in | |
| Ranking model | Based on competition. Applicants are ranked in order of preference, and only those with the highest scores are invited to apply for a permit. | Heavier administrative structure, works best in countries with a large number of immigrants which facilitates a competitive environment. Scoring is at the core of permanent labour migration, not dependent on an existing job. |
Canada, Australia |
| Threshold model | Based on eligibility. Applicants must exceed a pre-defined minimum score to receive a permit. | Lighter administrative structure, works also with a small number of immigrants. Does not replace employers’ demand but supplements it. Results in either a fixed-term or a permanent residence permit. | Germany, Austria, New Zealand |
Scoring could be used in Finland but it needs a clear objective
Compared with the current Finnish model, in countries with the scoring model, the government plays a large role in the selection of applicants. The two models described above are used for different objectives: for example, scoring can be used to offer a fast track to a permanent residence permit or to grant experts with desirable qualifications a residence permit for job-seeking purposes.
According to the report, a points-based system could also be utilised in Finland by developing the current model for work-based migration. This would require that an objective is set for the scoring system and that the scoring criteria and the way in which they are assessed in practice are clearly defined.
Scoring would likely lead to more bureaucracy for migrants and increase the administrative burden of the 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.
Inquiries:
Satu Salonen, Senior Specialist, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 295 047 149
Teresa Salminen, Special Adviser to the Minister of Employment, tel. +358 295 047 318 (questions for the Minister)
Measures of the government concerning work based immigration