Challenges of foreign worker in Finnish SMEs

Abstract

This thesis explores the challenges faced by foreign workers in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Finland. As Finland continues to rely on immigration to address labor shortages and support economic growth, it is crucial to understand the unique barriers that foreign workers encounter in the SME sector. Through qualitative interviews and surveys with both foreign employees and SME employers, this research identifies key issues, including language barriers, cultural and social challenges, economic barriers, legal challenges. Additionally, the thesis examines the perceptions of Finnish employers regarding foreign labor, highlighting the benefits and concerns associated with hiring migrant workers, strategy of overcoming challenges.