The Finnish government is preparing a new integration benefit for immigrants. Officials aim to implement the system by early 2027. The proposal will go to parliament next spring.
This new benefit would replace unemployment benefits for unemployed immigrants. It would not replace basic social assistance. The integration benefit level would match basic social assistance rates.
Unemployment benefits are taxable income while basic assistance is not. The current net unemployment benefit is 640 euros monthly. Basic social assistance stands at 594 euros monthly. The difference amounts to several dozen euros according to officials.
Immigrants could qualify for standard benefits by demonstrating sufficient language skills or meeting employment requirements. The required language level will be determined before the proposal goes for consultation.
The integration benefit would last up to three years for new arrivals. After this period, immigrants would transition to Finland's new general benefit system. The government hasn't decided whether the change affects only new arrivals or existing residents.
This marks the second attempt to create an integration benefit in Finland. A previous government's proposal faced constitutional issues and never passed.
Officials acknowledge constitutional concerns about treating groups differently. They emphasize immigrants can improve their situation through language learning or employment.
The reform likely aims to create stronger work incentives while managing public spending. The government appears to be walking a fine line between integration goals and budget constraints.
Ukrainian refugees with temporary protection currently receive basic social assistance. Their status under the new system remains unclear.
The integration benefit forms part of a broader social security reform package. This includes implementing a Norwegian-style home care allowance model with a three-year residency requirement.
The home care allowance changes would reduce recipients and save approximately 7.5 million euros annually. Increased early education and unemployment benefit costs would total 21.1 million euros.
Overall, the reforms would cost 12.8 million euros when fully implemented. The home care allowance proposal is out for consultation until late November. It would take effect in mid-2026.
The integration benefit proposal should reach the consultation phase by year's end.