Helsinki has moved its Development Programme for Migration and Integration for 2026–2029 into the implementation phase. The programme sets out how the city will attract international talent, help newcomers settle in and encourage them and their families to stay. It matters because the city expects its population of foreign origin to grow quickly, and growth in its labour force will rely heavily on migration.
What was decided
On 22 June, the City Board’s Economic Development Sub-committee approved the programme. Information about implementation will be provided at a launch event on 27 October. The programme is part of the implementation of the City Strategy.
The measures are aimed particularly at people with higher education degrees, skilled professionals needed by the labour market, entrepreneurs and investors, and degree students and researchers, along with their families. A large share of the measures also benefit everyone living in or moving to Helsinki, because most services are open to all residents.
Why the city is doing it
| Indicator | Figure |
|---|---|
| Residents of foreign origin | around 150,000 |
| Share of total population | 22 per cent |
| Forecast increase by 2045 | almost 100,000 |
The city describes this development as rapid by European standards. As the population ages, growth in the labour force will continue to rely heavily on migration. Glenn Gassen, Helsinki’s Director of Migration Affairs, said attracting talent is not enough without also creating reasons for people to stay. He pointed to job and career opportunities for spouses and welcoming neighbourhoods as part of that.
Three areas of work
- Attracting talent: through the city-owned marketing and investment company Helsinki Partners, efforts target the city’s growth sectors and employers’ needs. The city wants more employers to recruit international talent and the number of startups to grow. The StartuPKS project aims to attract international startups and growth companies.
- Settling in: Helsinki wants easier access to services and more effective pathways for working migrants to learn Finnish and Swedish. Helsinki Employment Services is developing language training tailored to employers of various sizes and sectors.
- Staying: the ‘Welcome Families’ activities for migrant families in Kannelmäki, Malmi and Mellunkylä are set to be extended to new neighbourhoods. They invite families to become part of the community of their home, school and neighbourhood.