A Filipino nurse in Finland failed a required Finnish language exam, putting her job at risk, according to Yle.
The case, reported by Helsingin Sanomat, highlights how language barriers can affect foreign healthcare workers.
The nurse had completed a Finnish course before moving to Finland, but found that real-life communication in hospitals was more difficult than expected.
However, she later failed the official exam needed to work as a registered nurse because her Finnish was not strong enough in practice.
Language test puts job at risk
This means she cannot work as a fully qualified nurse and may have to take a lower-paid job while improving her language skills.
In Finland, residence permits are often tied to employment, meaning foreign workers can risk losing their right to stay if they are unable to perform their job.
The case has sparked debate, as Finland needs more healthcare workers but still requires a high level of Finnish for medical roles.
