# International recruitment and retention challenges in FI > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/international-recruitment-and-retention-challenges-in-fi > Updated: 2026-08-31T04:22:53.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. International recruitment and retention in Finland face significant practical and structural obstacles. In Hämeenlinna, international residents report that while the city is viewed as safe and affordable, they often relocate to larger urban hubs due to a lack of suitable career paths, limited education opportunities, and insufficient social networks. High Finnish language requirements are a noted barrier to employment even for highly educated professionals. On a broader national scale, data from Finnish Chambers of Commerce indicates a decline in international recruitment, with the percentage of companies hiring foreign experts dropping from 37% in 2024 to 24% recently. Despite this decline, companies that do hire international talent report largely positive experiences. The primary hurdles identified include difficulties in locating talent, complex permit and authority processes, and language barriers, particularly in regions like Southwest Finland. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-31: Finland international recruitment declines amid bureaucratic hurdles A survey by Finnish Chambers of Commerce shows international recruitment is declining due to bureaucracy and language barriers, despite most companies reporting positive experiences with foreign talent. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/finland-international-recruitment-declines-amid-bureaucratic-hurdles ### 2026-08-25: Hämeenlinna faces challenges retaining international residents International residents in Hämeenlinna value the city's safety and affordability, but often relocate due to limited career opportunities and language barriers in the local job market. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hmeenlinna-faces-challenges-retaining-international-residents --- Cite as: International recruitment and retention challenges in FI. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/international-recruitment-and-retention-challenges-in-fi