Finland to halve reception centre network as client numbers fall

Finland’s Immigration Service will close eight more reception centres or group homes by the end of February 2027, cutting the number of units to about half its previous level, Yle reports.

Eight units have already closed this year. The next closures are scheduled for the Espoo reception centre on September 30; the Hämeenlinna group home on October 31; the Kuopio, Central Finland and Kauhava reception centres on November 30; the Tampere group home on December 31; and the Kotka and Seinäjoki reception centres on February 28, 2027.

The agency says falling client numbers are behind the closures. Fewer people are seeking asylum, the number of people fleeing the war in Ukraine for Finland has not increased, and some reception centre residents have moved into municipalities.

A change to the Reception Act, which took effect at the start of September, is also affecting the need for places. Reception services for asylum seekers end three months after they receive a residence permit and can apply for a municipality of residence. People receiving temporary protection must also move to a municipality within three months of gaining the right to one. The agency says this right mainly concerns Ukrainians receiving temporary protection.

People affected by closures will be offered vacant places at other reception centres, unless they move to a municipality or arrange private accommodation. Transfers usually mean moving to another town. The agency says it considers residents’ preferences and local ties, such as work or studies, but cannot always accommodate them. Residents can arrange private accommodation themselves and may apply for a reception allowance equal to social assistance, but their housing costs are not covered.

At the start of June, Finland had 30 reception units for adults, 13 for minors and two detention units. Reception centres have 300 places, but the agency does not disclose their exact occupancy for security reasons.