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On June 11, 2025, changes to the Finnish Aliens Act will come into force. From this date onward, non-EU/EEA employees working in Finland under an employment-based residence permit must find a new job within three months of contract termination, or six months for those on a residence permit for specialists. Additionally, employers will be legally obligated to notify the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) within 14 days of ending the employment relationship of such individuals. Failure to do so may result in fines.
We take this issue seriously and will continue working with our partners and policymakers to improve Finland’s ability to attract and retain international professionals in the game industry. Finland needs smarter, more flexible, and more human-centred immigration policies that support innovation and long-term competitiveness of the country. The Finnish government must recognise the impact of immigration policy on Finland’s ability to grow, innovate, and compete on the world stage. We must not close the door on the very people who help make Finland thrive.
According to Neogames’ upcoming (fall 2025) Finnish Game Industry Report, 35% of our workforce consists of foreign talent (professionals who do not hold Finnish citizenship). Majority of them are in Finland with specialist residence permits. Some of them have worked in Finland for years and meet the criteria for permanent residence or, before the latest restrictions, even citizenship. These individuals are already rooted in Finnish society, contributing to both Finland and its local game developer communities. We must not risk losing this valuable talent pool and entrepreneurial base due to uncertainty, complex rules, or short timeframes for transition.
The growth of the Finnish industry is based on our ability to attract foreign senior talent. They play a crucial role in levelling up the skills and knowledge base of Finnish employees to the top of the world. Finland needs to offer international talent a clear reason, opportunity, and motivation to come and stay. The global competition for skilled workers is intensifying, and the messages Finland sends through its legislation and public discourse matter. Finland needs a new, more welcoming vision for attracting top talent into the country, retaining them here and a road to citizenship.
For more information, please contact
Koopee Hiltunen
+358 40 532 4176
koopee@neogames.fi
Neogames Finland ry. is the umbrella organisation for the Finnish game industry, coordinating, accelerating, and supporting the growth of the Finnish game industry. A functional immigration system is essential for the success of the industry and its surrounding ecosystem. Together with its members, the Finnish Game Developers Association representing Finnish game developer studios, game industry service providers, regional cluster organisations, and educational institutions, Neogames Finland ry is dedicated to building, supporting and defending an inclusive game industry community in Finland that attracts the best global talent into the country.