Finland's strawberry farms losing foreign workers over high permit costs

Finland's horticulture sector, which relies heavily on foreign seasonal workers, is facing a labour shortage this season. High work permit fees are driving many migrant workers to choose Central European destinations instead. The industry employs around 14,000 people annually, with nearly 90% being foreign nationals.

Finland's berry and horticultural industry is struggling to attract foreign seasonal workers this year, as high permit costs push migrant labourers toward Central European countries offering more favourable conditions.

The sector employs approximately 14,000 workers each season, and foreign nationals make up nearly 90% of that workforce. However, rising fees associated with obtaining the right to work in Finland have made the country a less attractive destination compared to alternatives in Central Europe.

Farm operators across Finland are warning that the shortage could have a direct impact on this year's strawberry and berry harvest, with some fields potentially going unpicked if the labour gap is not addressed.

The situation highlights a broader tension in Nordic agricultural economies, where demand for affordable seasonal labour is increasingly difficult to meet under current immigration and permit cost frameworks. Industry representatives are calling on Finnish authorities to review the fee structure to remain competitive in attracting the workers the sector depends on.