The Confederation of Finnish Industries (EK) has put forth a proposal consisting of several measures aimed at accelerating work-related immigration to Finland. Highlighting the urgent demographic issues facing the country, EK argues that to counter the rapid decline in population growth and deteriorating dependency ratio, Finland needs to attract approximately 45,000 work-related immigrants annually. The organization's director, Ilkka Oksala, emphasizes that addressing the shortage of skilled labor, especially as the economy recovers, is critical for Finnish businesses.

One of the key aspects of EK's proposal is the elimination of the availability consideration process that currently evaluates whether there is suitable domestic labor before granting work permits to individuals from outside the European Union. This process has been a significant hurdle in hiring foreign skilled workers. Alongside this, EK suggests removing home care support, which is part of a broader strategy to streamline immigration processes and make Finland a more attractive destination for foreign workers.

By proposing these changes, EK aims to not only address the immediate labor market needs but also to revitalize the Finnish economy in the long term. The suggested reforms reflect the growing urgency among Finnish businesses to secure a steady influx of capable employees as they anticipate increased demand for their services. The implications of these proposals could significantly reshape Finland's immigration policy, making it easier for skilled professionals to contribute to the workforce amidst declining local birth rates and an aging population.