Activities of the Ministry of the Interior’s branch of government in the war in Ukraine

As part of the European Union, Finland is doing its part for Ukraine with respect to the impacts of Russia’s war of aggression. In particular, we want to protect people fleeing the war. The Ministry of the Interior coordinates humanitarian material assistance provided by Finland and the reception of Ukrainian refugees in Finland. 

In 2022–2024, Ukrainians have submitted a total of about 74,000 applications for temporary protection in Finland. There are around 46,000 Ukrainian beneficiaries of temporary protection in Finland (September 2024).  

Finland is prepared for the possible effects of the situation in Ukraine on the internal security of the Union, such as Russia's hybrid actions.

The internal security authorities are on call 24/7 and are well prepared for incidents as part of their daily work. They are looking after everyday security in Finland. The authorities are monitoring and anticipating developments in the situation in Ukraine.

Ministry is responsible for law drafting

The Ministry of the Interior prepares legislative amendments within its mandate and is responsible for legislation on temporary protection, among other things. The Ministry is prepared for the consequences of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in close cooperation with the agencies in its administrative branch and other ministries.

The EU Member States work together in this respect, exchange information closely and coordinate the measures together.  

Ministry of the Interior coordinates Finland’s civilian assistance provided to Ukraine

The Department for Rescue Services of the Ministry of the Interior coordinates the civilian assistance provided by the Finnish Government to Ukraine through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. 

Finland may provide civilian assistance upon the request of another country, the EU or an international organisation. Assistance may take the form of rescue teams or expert and material assistance. Assistance may also be provided in relation to natural disasters or man-made conflicts and major accidents.

Read more about providing international assistance

Migration authorities responsible for reception of Ukrainian refugees

The Ministry of the Interior, the Finnish Immigration Service and the Finnish Border Guard are closely monitoring the migration situation in Ukraine. Finland has increased the exchange of information both nationally within the central government and with its international partners. The sharing of up-to-date information on the situation has been intensified within the EU.

The Finnish Immigration Service maintains the reception system and makes decisions on permits issued to people coming from Ukraine.  Ukrainians are granted temporary protection in Finland for the duration of the war.

Frequently asked questions: Ukraine | Finnish Immigration Service
Instructions on arriving in Finland from Ukraine | Finnish Immigration Service

The Border Guard monitors entry into Finland

The Border Guard is responsible for border checks at Finland’s external borders, examines the conditions for entry and receives asylum applications and applications for temporary protection. The Border Guard follows national and EU policies when assessing the conditions for entry and when deciding to ease them . The Border Guard ensures border security and the management of migrants at the external border.

The Border Guard is also prepared for border security incidents. The authorities have drawn up joint action plans for different situations.

The Border Guard provides guidelines on entering Finland on its website.  The guidelines for border crossing should primarily be checked on the website.

Information on arriving in Finland from Ukraine | Finnish Border Guard

Police register persons arriving in Finland

In connection with the situation in Ukraine, the police are responsible for receiving and registering applications for temporary protection or asylum

The application must be lodged with the police or the Border Guard upon entry into the country or as soon as possible after entry. All police departments are prepared to receive applications and register applicants. After the application has been submitted, the processing of the matter will be transferred to the Finnish Immigration Service.  

Monitoring of foreign nationals | Police
Contact details for persons applying for temporary protection or asylum | Police