The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) is currently reviewing and considering the cancellation of a significant number of residence permits

 The Finnish Immigration Service is currently reviewing and considering the cancellation of a significant number of residence permits issued to foreign students. why is the finish govern talking this decision?

The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) is currently reviewing and considering the cancellation of a significant number of residence permits issued to foreign students due to concerns about compliance with permit conditions. This decision stems from several factors:

Automated Reviews and Compliance Checks

In September 2023, Migri implemented an automated review system for student residence permits[1][3]. This new approach allows for more frequent and comprehensive checks of permit holders' status. Previously, officials only checked students' residence requirements when they applied for permit extensions[1].

## Suspected Non-Compliance

The automated reviews have raised suspicions that some students are no longer fulfilling the conditions of their permits[3]. By the end of September 2024, these checks resulted in:

- 264 permits already canceled

- 216 cases pending review

- A total of 5,795 residence permits reviewed over a 12-month period[1][3]

## Stricter Monitoring

The Finnish government appears to be tightening its oversight of foreign students to ensure that the residence permits are being used for their intended purpose - studying. This increased scrutiny may be part of a broader effort to maintain the integrity of the immigration system and prevent potential misuse of student visas.

## Regular Review Process

Under current Finnish regulations, student residence permits issued for more than six months are subject to review. The first check occurs three months after the permit is issued, followed by annual checks for as long as the permit remains valid[1][3]. This regular review process allows authorities to monitor students' ongoing compliance with permit conditions.

While Finland is taking steps to ensure compliance with student visa regulations, it's worth noting that the country is also working on initiatives to retain foreign talent. For instance, there are plans to grant permanent residence to those who obtain a master's degree in Finland and pass a Finnish or Swedish language test, although this decision has not been finalized[3]. This dual approach suggests that Finland is balancing strict enforcement of immigration rules with efforts to attract and retain skilled individuals who contribute positively to the country's economy and society.

Citations:

[1] Finland checking thousands of foreign students' residence permits https://yle.fi/a/74-20127675

[2] Finnish immigration to revoke student residence permits https://euroweeklynews.com/2024/11/30/finnish-immigration-may-revoke-student-residence-permits/

[3] Finland May Cancel Residence Permits of Hundreds of Foreign ... https://schengen.news/finland-may-cancel-residence-permits-of-hundreds-of-foreign-students/

[4] Finland Considers Revoking Residence Permits for Hundreds of ... https://atozserwisplus.com/immigration-news/finland-considers-revoking-residence-permits-for-hundreds-of-foreign-students