Security checks at the Finnish Immigration Service will complement the current security measures

In future, it will be possible to conduct security checks on people who enter or are present in the premises of the Finnish Immigration Service. The Government submitted the bill on security measures in the Finnish Immigration Service and the bill amending the Private Security Services Act for approval on 9 August. The President of the Republic is to approve the bills on 10 August, and they are to enter into force on 20 August 2018.

By conducting security checks on people who enter the premises, it is possible to protect those working at the Finnish Immigration Service against various risks, to ensure safe working conditions and to protect the property of the Finnish Immigration Service. The new act on security measures will not apply to people who enter or stay in the accommodation facilities of a state reception centre or registration centre maintained by the Finnish Immigration Service.

The act will make it possible to inspect people entering the premises of the Finnish Immigration Service, together with their belongings, in order to ensure that they are not carrying any objects or substances that could endanger order or security or that could be used to damage property. Similar legislation is already in place to secure the operation of Parliament, the Government and courts.

Taking proactive measures to address potential security threats

The Finnish Immigration Service has used private security services but the guards have not been authorised to conduct security checks on people who enter the premises. They have only been allowed to conduct security checks in situations that pose a threat. The new legislation will complement the current ways of preparing for security threats.

A police officer, a border guard or a person employed by the Finnish Immigration Service who is trained for the task can act as a security inspector. Security checks can also be carried out by a police-approved person who is appropriately trained for the task. In practice, security checks will be outsourced, and they will be conducted by people working in the private security sector.

Inquiries:
Jarmo Tiukkanen, Chief Specialist, tel. +358 295 488 606, [email protected]
Jorma Kantola, Senior Ministerial Adviser, tel. +358 295 488 215, [email protected] (as from 16 August)