Integration services make it easier for immigrants to integrate into Finnish society

Integration of immigrants into Finnish society is promoted and supported through a wide range of measures and services provided by the authorities and other parties. These measures and services are primarily provided as part of basic municipal services as well as employment and economic administration services.

Initial assessment and information about Finland

The initial assessment serves as the preliminary assessment of the need for measures and services promoting the integration and employment prospects of an immigrant. The initial assessment is started by the municipality or the Employment and Economic Development Office.

Immediately after their arrival, immigrants are provided with the basic facts about Finland and information on how to receive advice and other support for integration. The parents of immigrant families are provided with information and counselling on services directed to families in particular, as well as on legislation and practices concerning families in Finland.

Integration training includes language teaching and vocational planning

In integration training, adult immigrants are taught

  • Finnish or Swedish,
  • other social, cultural and life-management skills and
  • skills facilitating access to working life and further training.

Integration training may also include the identification of previously acquired skills and the recognition of degrees, as well as vocational planning and career guidance. If necessary, immigrants are also taught reading and writing skills. Integration training is implemented as labour market training.

The Ministry of Education and Culture is responsible for reading and writing training for adult immigrants and for basic education for adults.

Public employment and business services promote immigrants’ employment prospects

Immigrants are provided with motivation and guidance so that they can take part in vocational labour market training and pursue self-motivated studies. Immigrants are also encouraged to engage in entrepreneurship and use regional business services.

Immigrants in need of special measures can be provided with support. Likewise, unaccompanied minors who have received a residence permit can be provided with child welfare after-care services.

Further information
Sari Haavisto, sari.haavisto(at)tem.fi