Job seekers must continue applications even after securing new employment

Unemployed Finns are required to keep applying for jobs even after signing a new employment contract, as current legislation mandates job searches until the start date, according to a report by Yle.

Jalmari Jokinen, a 33-year-old warehouse worker from Tampere, was obligated to apply for four positions despite having secured a new job set to begin in just over two weeks. He admitted to reporting four job listings as applications—without actually submitting them—believing authorities would not verify the claims.

“I don’t want to send an application to an employer if I have no intention of taking the job. That’s how I justify it,” Jokinen said. He called the situation absurd and stressed that forcing people to apply for nonexistent jobs is a waste of time for all parties involved.

Antti Ojalehto, a service supervisor at Tampere’s employment and growth services, confirmed that not every application is checked, though job seekers must provide documentation if requested. Authorities primarily assess whether applications are realistic—for example, a bus driver position cannot be sought without a D-license.

Ojalehto acknowledged the inefficiency of mandatory job searches when employment is already secured, noting that current laws leave no discretion for employment officials. “It’s the same rigid process as everything else,” he said.

Seasonal workers face similar issues. Annakaisa Valli, a 38-year-old early childhood educator, must apply for jobs this summer despite a signed contract starting in August. She worries about the impression half-hearted applications may leave with future employers and the disadvantage to those genuinely seeking work.

Employment authorities have proposed changing the law to end mandatory job searches once a new position is confirmed.