The Finnish government is preparing to implement a new citizenship test with significant flaws according to the Central Chamber of Commerce. The proposed test would introduce a new requirement focused on societal knowledge, assessing applicants' understanding of Finnish societal values, key legislation, fundamental human rights, equality, gender equality, and the country's history and culture. Critics argue that the test may not meet the needs of new citizens and risks complicating the citizenship process.

This change is part of the government's broader strategy to tighten the requirements for obtaining citizenship. In addition to the citizenship test, the government aims to reinforce existing conditions regarding residency duration, financial stability, and good conduct. This approach has already tightened citizenship rules in areas such as the time required for residence and the financial resources immigrants must demonstrate, which adds further pressure on individuals seeking to become Finnish citizens.

The implementation of the new citizenship test is planned to begin next year, coinciding with the introduction of these other stricter requirements. There are concerns that these changes could create unnecessary barriers for potential citizens and detract from Finland’s commitment to inclusivity and integration for immigrants, essentially building a system that could fail to support genuine integration into Finnish society.