Immigration authorities in Finland are planning changes to the foreigner integration law to come into effect at the beginning of September, bringing new responsibilities for local administrations. The new law forces municipalities to arrange integration services for immigrants receiving social assistance—a subsidy available to those who cannot afford even the most basic necessities—and have resided in Finland under three years.
The services would thus cover not only refugees, but also migrant workers and those in Finland because of marriage or studies.
Out-of-work immigrants will be entitled to an initial interview, during which their literacy level, educational background and work experience will be assessed. The state will pay an estimated 700 euros to the municipalities for each immigrant undergoing such an interview.
Savon Sanomat writes that small municipalities which have little experience with immigration tasks will react to these legislation changes most slowly.
The new law aims to ease immigrants’ path to the labour market.
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