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LABOUR FINLANDIndependent Information Service
03 / PermitsImmigration & Legal

Work Permits and Residence Permits for Employed Persons (TTOL)

Non-EU/EEA citizens moving to Finland for employment require a valid residence permit. The type of permit depends on your professional qualification, salary level, and job sector.

1

Residence Permit for an Employed Person (TTOL)

The standard permit for non-EU workers is the Residence Permit for an Employed Person (työntekijän oleskelulupa, TTOL). The process involves a two-tier decision: first by the TE Office (evaluating labour market availability and employment terms), and second by Migri.

Actionable Checklist / Details:
  • Two-stage assessment: TE Office conducts labour market testing (saatavuusharkinta); Migri issues final residence card.
  • Binding terms: The agreed salary and working conditions must strictly meet the applicable collective agreement (TES).
  • Employer role: The employer submits employment terms through Enter Finland for Employers before application processing.
Primary Official Authority:Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) — Employed Person Permit
2

Specialist Residence Permit & EU Blue Card

High-skilled professionals, IT specialists, and managers with an accredited higher education degree or verified expertise can apply for the Specialist Permit or EU Blue Card. These permits are exempt from labour market testing and offer fast-track processing (often under two weeks).

Primary Official Authority:Migri — Specialist Residence Permit Guidelines
3

EU/EEA and Nordic Citizens

Citizens of EU/EEA member states and Switzerland have the right to work in Finland without a residence permit. If staying in Finland longer than three months, EU citizens must register their right of residence with Migri.

Primary Official Authority:Migri — Registration of EU Citizens
Legal Disclaimer: Labour Finland provides general informational content about wages and working life in Finland. We aim to keep information accurate and up to date, but collective agreements, legislation, wage levels and employment conditions can change. Information on this website should not be considered individualized legal, tax or employment advice. Always verify important information with the applicable collective agreement, your employer, relevant organization or competent authority.