Blog Single

Finland has introduced new guidelines for foreign berry pickers starting in 2024–2025. If you’re planning to work in Finland’s berry harvesting sector, here’s what’s changed — and how Prime Global Visas can help you prepare.

✅ Why the Change?

For years, foreign workers — especially from Asia and Eastern Europe — have traveled to Finland during the summer to work as berry pickers. But until recently, this seasonal work was classified as independent entrepreneurship, which meant workers weren’t entitled to minimum wage, work protections, or standard labor benefits.

Following growing concerns about worker exploitation and transparency, the Finnish government has made a decisive shift: berry pickers are now officially recognized as employees — not entrepreneurs.

🛠️ What Are the New Regulations?

Here’s what the updated rules look like for 2024 and beyond:

1. Employment-Based Work
   Foreign berry pickers must now be formally employed by a Finnish company. This brings them under the umbrella of Finnish labor laws and protections.
2. Minimum Wage Guarantee
   Pickers will now receive a fixed monthly salary, regardless of how many berries they collect. This reduces risk and ensures fair earnings.
3. Employment Contracts Required
   Written contracts must be provided before workers arrive in Finland — with details about working conditions, hours, salary, and employer responsibilities.
4. Visa Requirements
   Since berry pickers are now considered employees, they will require a work visa — not just a seasonal travel permit.
5. Better Living Standards
   Employers must provide appropriate accommodation, transportation, and insurance for their workers.

🌍 What This Means for You?

This change is a huge win for foreign workers looking for safer, fairer job opportunities in Finland. However, the visa process has become more structured and documentation-heavy, which means you’ll need professional guidance.

🧭 How Prime Global Visas Can Help?

At Prime Global Visas, we assist seasonal workers with:

✅ Document preparation and verification
✅ Work visa applications
✅ Employment contracts and pre-departure guidance
✅ Legal compliance and worker rights education

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or returning for another season, we’ll make sure your journey is legal, safe, and stress-free.

🇫🇮 Types of Visas for Seasonal Work in Finland?

1. Seasonal Work Visa (Up to 90 Days)

Issued for short-term seasonal jobs, such as:

• Berry picking
• Farm work
• Greenhouse labor
• Christmas tree harvesting
• Tourism/hospitality during peak season

✅ Issued by: Finnish Embassy or VFS Global in India
✅ Applicable if stay is less than 90 days (Schengen visa type C)

Requirements:

• Valid passport (6+ months)
• Work contract from Finnish employer
• Proof of accommodation in Finland
• Travel insurance (min. €30,000 coverage)
• Flight reservations
• Visa application form + biometric data
• Proof of sufficient financial means (~€30–50/day)
• Return flight guarantee or sponsorship

🕐 Processing time: Typically 2–3 months, faster if employer is part of Finland’s Fast Track Program

2. Seasonal Work Permit (Over 90 Days, Up to 9 Months)

Issued if you intend to work in Finland for more than 90 days, still in seasonal roles.

✅ Issued by: Finnish Immigration Service (Migri)
✅ Permit type: Residence permit for seasonal work

Requirements:

• Signed employment contract from a registered Finnish employer
• Valid passport
• Proof of sufficient income (at least €1,000/month)
• Health insurance covering the entire stay
• Proof of accommodation
• Application fee (approx. €490)
• Clean criminal record

🕐 Processing time: Typically 2–3 months, faster if employer is part of Finland’s Fast Track Program

3. Residence Permit for Employed Person (non-seasonal work)

If you’re working year-round in sectors not classified as seasonal (like logistics, IT, or manufacturing), you’ll need a standard work-based residence permit, not a seasonal one.

✅ Key Notes for Indian Applicants:

• Applications must be made from India before traveling.
• Indian citizens must go through biometric verification at VFS centers.
• English communication skills may be required depending on the role.
• You must return at the end of your contract unless extended by employer.
• From 2024, all berry pickers must now be employees (not freelancers), meaning work contract and permit are mandatory.

🧭 How Prime Global Visas Can Help

We assist you with:

• Finding verified employers
• Processing seasonal visa/residence permit applications
• Booking biometric appointments and compiling documentation
• Pre-departure & post-arrival guidance

📞 Ready to Work in Finland?

Get started with trusted guidance and real job opportunities.
👉 Visit www.primeglobalvisas.com
📲 Call us at +91-9429693389
📩 DM us on Instagram @primeglobalvisas

Your future is global. Let’s harvest new opportunities — the right way.

PrimeGlobalVisas #WorkInFinland #BerryPickerJobs #VisaExperts #SeasonalJobs2025 #EUWorkPermit #ImmigrationSupport #LegalWorkAbroad