Finland opens application portal for Nigerians & other foreign workers with N2.2m minimum wage

Are you a Nigerian seeking international work opportunities in 2025? The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) has officially opened the application portal for the Seasonal Work Permit 2025, creating pathways for foreign workers, including Nigerians, to legally work in Finland’s agriculture, forestry, and tourism industries.

This guide explains everything you need to know — from eligibility, documents required, minimum salary expectations, and step-by-step instructions on how to apply.

Why Work in Finland in 2025?

Finland is one of Europe’s most stable economies and is experiencing high demand for seasonal labor. The government introduced the seasonal work programme to strengthen its workforce while offering fair wages and regulated working conditions.

• Duration: Up to 9 months within 12 months.

• Reported minimum monthly salary: €2,700 (about ₦2.2 million).

• Sectors in demand: Agriculture, forestry, and tourism.

• Target applicants: Both skilled and unskilled workers from countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, India, and the Philippines.

Categories of Finland Seasonal Work in 2025

There are two main categories of permits available under the scheme:

1. Seasonal Work Visa (Up to 3 Months)

• For jobs lasting less than 90 days.

• Nigerians (and other visa-required nationals) must apply through the Finnish Embassy in Abuja.

• Visa-exempt nationals can instead apply for a certificate of seasonal work online via EnterFinland.

2. Seasonal Work Residence Permit (3–9 Months)

• For longer seasonal employment (up to 9 months).

• Applicants must apply for a residence permit for seasonal work directly on the EnterFinland portal.

Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, confirm that you meet the following conditions:
✔ You must already have a job offer or signed contract from a Finnish employer.
✔ Valid Nigerian passport.
✔ Proof of accommodation in Finland (if provided by employer, it should be in the contract).
✔ Must work in agriculture, forestry, or tourism sectors.

Required Documents

When applying for the Finland seasonal work permit, prepare the following documents:

• Valid Nigerian international passport

• Signed job contract from a Finnish employer

• Digital passport photograph

• Proof of accommodation (or employer confirmation)

• Travel insurance (for visa applicants under 90 days)

• Educational/work certificates (if requested by employer)

• Application fee payment (approx. €490 for residence permit; lower for visa/certificate)

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Finland Seasonal Work Permit

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the application process:

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Seasonal work applies to agriculture, forestry, and tourism jobs only.

• Secure a job contract before applying.

Step 2: Choose the Right Application Type

• Up to 90 days: Apply for Seasonal Work Visa (at Finnish Embassy in Abuja).

• 3–9 months: Apply for a Residence Permit for Seasonal Work (via EnterFinland).

Step 3: Create an EnterFinland Account

• Visit EnterFinland Seasonal Work Portal.

• Register with your email and create a password.

• Log in to begin your application.

Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form

• Select the correct seasonal work type.

• Upload all required documents.

• Provide employer details (employer may also confirm from Finland).

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

• Pay online via card.

• Save and print payment confirmation.

Step 6: Book Biometric Appointment (For Nigerians)

Visit the Finland Embassy in Abuja or a designated VFS center to:

• Submit fingerprints

• Present original documents

• Submit your passport

Step 7: Wait for Processing

• Visa (≤90 days): typically a few weeks.

• Residence permit (3–9 months): usually 1–3 months depending on workload.

Step 8: Collect Permit & Travel

• Once approved, collect your visa/residence permit.

• Travel to Finland and begin your seasonal job legally.

Salary & Working Conditions

According to reports, Finland’s seasonal work programme guarantees workers a minimum monthly wage of €2,700, in line with the country’s labour standards. However, always confirm with your employer and the official Migri website before accepting offers.

Employers must also ensure proper accommodation and fair working hours.

Processing Time

• Short-term visa (≤90 days): 2–6 weeks.

• Residence permit (3–9 months): 1–3 months.
  Note: Times vary based on workload and individual case.

FAQs About Finland Seasonal Work Permit 2025

Q1. Can Nigerians apply for Finland seasonal work in 2025?
Yes, Nigerians are eligible. You must have a valid job offer and apply for the appropriate visa or residence permit through the Finnish Embassy in Abuja and EnterFinland.

Q2. How long can I work in Finland with this permit?
Up to 9 months in a 12-month period, depending on your contract.

Q3. Is accommodation provided?
Sometimes. Employers may provide accommodation — confirm details in your job contract.

Q4. Is the €2,700 salary guaranteed?
The Finnish government highlights €2,700/month as the minimum wage for seasonal workers. Always double-check with your employer and Migri before applying.

Disclaimer

This blog post is for informational purposes only. We do not collect fees, process applications, or act as agents. Always confirm requirements and apply only via the official Finnish Immigration Service migri.fi/seasonal-work.

Final Thoughts

The Finland Seasonal Work Permit 2025 offers Nigerians and other foreign nationals a chance to work in one of Europe’s most stable economies with competitive wages. If you’re looking for temporary work abroad in agriculture, forestry, or tourism, this programme is a golden opportunity.

Next Step: Visit the EnterFinland portal today and start your application.

👉 Visit the official portal to apply: Finland Visa – Official Immigration Service