UNHCR‘s Representation for the Nordic and Baltic Countries has submitted its observations on the Finnish Government’s Proposal to amend the Aliens Act (temporary protection) (Hallituksen esitys eduskunnalle ulkomaalaislain muuttamisesta (tilapäinen suojelu)).
Following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the Finnish Government’s decision to extend temporary protection to refugees from Ukraine, the Finnish Aliens Act was amended to permit the granting of temporary protection for a maximum duration of three years. The Proposal seeks to remove the maximum length of time a person can be granted temporary protection. In addition, the Proposal aims to remove the provision which provides for continuous residence permits for beneficiaries of temporary protection. As a result, beneficiaries of temporary protection would remain on a temporary residence permit and would no longer be entitled to a permanent residence permit or citizenship.
UNHCR appreciates Finland’s continued support to refugees from Ukraine and welcomes the proposal to remove the maximum length of time a foreigner can be granted temporary protection. However, UNHCR is concerned about the differential treatment between refugees, beneficiaries of subsidiary protection and beneficiaries of temporary protection in respect of the eligibility for permanent residence permits. UNHCR recommends that Finland reconsiders this.
UNHCR’s observations can be found here.
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