The Finnish government says the proposed changes are intended to improve security and integration outcomes while upholding the values and standards of Finnish society.
Helsinki – The Finnish government is preparing to tighten the requirements for acquiring citizenship, with a legislative proposal expected to be submitted to Parliament in spring 2025.
The draft legislation, presented by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo’s (NCP) administration, introduces stricter conditions aimed at promoting integration, enhancing national security, and ensuring adherence to societal rules.
Key Changes in Citizenship Criteria
Under the proposed amendments, successful integration into Finnish society will become a central prerequisite for citizenship. This includes a more stringent integrity requirement, where committing criminal offences will have a greater impact on eligibility. National security will also play a heightened role in evaluating applications, with authorities emphasizing compliance with societal norms.
One notable change involves income requirements. In the future, individuals relying on unemployment benefits or social assistance would no longer meet the threshold, as stable income will be considered evidence of integration.
Citizenship Revocation to Become More Frequent
The proposal also includes provisions for more frequent revocations of Finnish citizenship. Offences against Finland’s vital interests or providing false information during the application process could lead to citizenship being withdrawn.
“Finnish citizenship is not something that can be granted automatically. It requires successful integration, work, and compliance with the rules of Finnish society,” Interior Minister Mari Rantanen (Finns) stated in a release.
The government says the proposed changes are intended to improve security and integration outcomes while upholding the values and standards of Finnish society.
The draft is currently open for public consultation before its submission to Parliament.
Join our Channel...