Finland Visa Policy

There are three different types of visas to Finland:

1. Schengen Visa - Short Stay Visa
2. Airport Transit Visa
3. National Visa – Long Stay Visa

As Finland belongs to the list of Schengen countries, you should apply for a Finland Schengen visa to make your short trip. Reasons to apply for this type of visa can be tourism, visiting family or friends, business trips, medical examinations or treatment, short-term education, exchange programs, and many other non-permanent nuances.

If you want to study in Finland for more than 90 days (such as bachelor's, master's, doctoral, etc.) or work permanently in an institution located here, you can also apply for a Finland national visa, if you have official invitations or letters of acceptance from those educational and business institutions.

Finland Schengen Visa

The Schengen visa entitles the holder to visits of up to 90 days every 6 months in the entire Schengen area.

Which Countries are in the Schengen Area?

The Schengen area is an area comprised of 26 European states that have abolished passport control at their shared borders and have adopted a common visa policy.

List of Schengen Countries:

If your citizenship country does not have a visa exemption agreement with Finland and you want to come to Finland for a short stay, for a business trip, holiday, family or friends visit, you will be required to apply for a Schengen visa beforehand. This short-stay visa is valid only for up to 90 days stay within a 180-day period in Finland and all other Schengen area member states. The start date of the 180-day period is the day you enter Finland or another Schengen country.

The main purposes of the visit for a Schengen visa are tourism, business, family visit, participating in cultural (scientific, sporting) events, study (up to 90 days), work (up to 90 days). 

Finland Tourist Visa

If you intend to visit Finland with the purpose of tourism for a period shorter than 90 days, depending on your nationality, you might be required to obtain a Finland Tourist Visa first.

The Finland Tourist Visa permits you to stay in Finland and realize your tourist activities for a maximum period of 90 days at most per 180 days.

Required Documents for Finland Tourist Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English or Finnish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors, below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous Schengen visa
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Valid (existing) hotel/accommodation booking/reservation with the full address (name, street, city, zip code, contact information, booking ref.)

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Proof of Financial Means

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

10. Overseas Medical Insurance

• Valid for the entire duration of the requested visa and for all Schengen countries.
• Minimum coverage 30,000 € and repatriation. (Medical insurances of credit cards are not accepted)
• Conditions must be stated either on the insurance document or on a separate confirmation letter

11. For Minors:

• Copy and Finnish or English translation of either birth certificate/proof of adoption/custody decree if parents are divorced/death certificate of parent
• “Letter of consent” from parents, including passport copies of both parents/legal guardian

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Finland Tourist Visa

The average processing time for a Finland Tourist visa is 5-20 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Tourist Visa Fee

Since 02 February 2020, the fee for Schengen visas has been EUR 80, to be paid upon submission of the application. Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application Center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

According to the agreement, signed between The EU and Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia, and Ukraine, visa fee reduced to 35 EUR for the citizens of these countries.

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

• Children under six years
• School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
• Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
• Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
• For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
• For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of Finland citizens
• Parents of minor Finland citizens
• Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for Finland Tourist Visa?

You will apply for a Finland Tourist visa in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Finland Business/Congress/Trade Fair Visit Visa

A Finland Business Visa gives you the authorization to enter Finland and stay here for a maximum period of up to 90 days within six months, as permitted. It permits its holder to engage in business-related activities such as attending meetings or conferences, conducting or attending the training, conducting internal audits, installing equipment, or performing other temporary services for a client, local affiliate, or branch office.

Under the Business visa category, other following cases would be applicable:

• Business matters/meetings/ negotiation/trainings
• Conference/Congress/Exhibition
• Scientific/Research events
• Journalists
• Official delegations

Required Documents for Finland Business Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in Finnish or English and signed and dated by the applicant himself 

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous Schengen visa
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Valid (existing) hotel/accommodation booking/reservation with the full address (name, street, city, zip code, contact information, booking ref.)

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Proof of Financial Means

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

10. Overseas Medical Insurance

• Valid for the entire duration of the requested visa and for all Schengen countries.
• Minimum coverage 30,000 € and repatriation. (Medical insurances of credit cards are not accepted)
• Conditions must be stated either on the insurance document or on a separate confirmation letter

11. Documents Reflecting the Nature of the Business Trip and the Existence of Business Relations

• Invitation letter from company/authority in Finland with full address, stating the purpose and duration of the business trip and/or
  • Information on event/congress/trade fair being visited in Finland with details of organizer/host, with full address in Finland, duration of the event, and reason to take part (e.g. visitor ticket for trade fair).
  •  If applicable, including information about who covers the expenses of the business trip to Finland
• Only applicable if fair exhibitor: Information on trade fair by submitting exhibitor ticket/exhibitor invoice/confirmation letter reflecting status as trade fair exhibitor.
• Information reflecting the existence of trade relations or relations for work purposes stating details of parties.
• Memorandum and Article of Association in original certified copy (registered with joint-stock companies), Trade License (first issued and present renewal), Proprietorship/Partnership documents

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Finland Business Visa

The average processing time for a Finland Business visa is 5-20 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Business Visa Fee

Since 02 February 2020, the fee for Schengen visas has been 80 EUR, to be paid upon submission of the application. Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application Center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

According to the agreement, signed between The EU and Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia, and Ukraine, visa fee reduced to 35 EUR for the citizens of these countries.

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

• Children under six years
• School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
• Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
• Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
• For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
• For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of Finland citizens
• Parents of minor Finland citizens
• Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for Finland Business Visa?

You will apply for a Finland Business visa in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Finland Cultural, Scientific, Sports Events Visa

The Finland Cultural/Scientific/Sports Visa enables you to enter Finland for cultural, scientific or, sports purposes, such as attending cultural events.

Required Documents for Finland Cultural Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English or Finnish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors, below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous Schengen visa
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Valid (existing) hotel/accommodation booking/reservation with the full address (name, street, city, zip code, contact information, booking ref.)

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Proof of Financial Means

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

10. Overseas Medical Insurance

• Valid for the entire duration of the requested visa and for all Schengen countries.
• Minimum coverage 30,000 € and repatriation. (Medical insurances of credit cards are not accepted)
• Conditions must be stated either on the insurance document or on a separate confirmation letter

11. Documents Reflecting the Nature/Purpose of the Journey and Stay of Artist/Member of Cultural/Sports Association in Finland: Artist/Athlete Member of Cultural/Sports Association in Your Country Travels to a Cultural/Sports Event Organized in Cooperation with a Finland Cultural/Sports Association

• Letter of Local Cultural Association / Sports Association stating timeframe and schedule of cultural event/sports camp with details of organizer/host with full address in Finland, as well as the purpose of cultural camp/event and information who covers costs (accommodation, travel expenses).
• If the applicant is under the age of 18, signed “letter of no objection” of school/university confirming participation in cultural / sports event.

12. For Minors:

• Copy and Finnish or English translation of either birth certificate/proof of adoption/custody decree if parents are divorced/death certificate of parent
• “Letter of consent” from parents, including passport copies of both parents/legal guardian

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Finland Cultural Visa

The average processing time for a Finland Cultural visa is 5-20 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Cultural Visa Fee

Since 02 February 2020, the fee for Schengen visas has been 80 EUR, to be paid upon submission of the application. Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application Center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

According to the agreement, signed between The EU and Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia, and Ukraine, visa fee reduced to 35 EUR for the citizens of these countries.

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

• Children under six years
• School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
• Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
• Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
• For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
• For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of Finland citizens
• Parents of minor Finland citizens
• Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for Finland Cultural Visa?

You will apply for a Finland Cultural visa in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Finland Visiting Family and Friends Visa

A short stay family/friend visit visa allows you to travel to Finland to visit family or friends for up to a maximum of 90 days within 180 days.

Required Documents for Finland Family Visit Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English or Finnish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors, below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous Schengen visa
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary

• Flight reservation
• Valid (existing) hotel/accommodation booking/reservation with the full address (name, street, city, zip code, contact information, booking ref.)

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Proof of Financial Means

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

10. Overseas Medical Insurance

• Valid for the entire duration of the requested visa and for all Schengen countries.
• Minimum coverage 30,000 € and repatriation. (Medical insurances of credit cards are not accepted)
• Conditions must be stated either on the insurance document or on a separate confirmation letter

11. Proof of Visit/Accommodation:

     If visiting: close relatives - spouse, children, parents (including guardians), grandparents:

• Letter of invitation
  • Must be official. A scanned version is accepted at the time of application, but it is advisable to send the original by mail as the original will be required at the border.
• Documents proving kinship
• A document confirming the status of the inviting person in the Schengen area
• If the invitee stays at the inviting person’s home, documents about the house (contract, payment for utilities, etc.)

12. For Minors:

• Copy and Finnish or English translation of either birth certificate/proof of adoption/custody decree if parents are divorced/death certificate of parent
• “Letter of consent” from parents, including passport copies of both parents/legal guardian

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Finland Family Visit Visa

The average processing time for a Finland Family Visit visa is 5-20 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Family Visit Visa Fee

Since 02 February 2020, the fee for Schengen visas has been EUR 80, to be paid upon submission of the application. Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

According to the agreement, signed between The EU and Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia, and Ukraine, visa fee reduced to 35 EUR for the citizens of these countries.

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

• Children under six years
• School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
• Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
• Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
• For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
• For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of Finland citizens
• Parents of minor Finland citizens
• Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for Finland Family Visit Visa?

You will apply for a Finland Family Visit visa in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Finland Study (up to 90 days) Visa

A Finland Study (up to 90 days) Visa is granted to you to undertake trips to Finland for study or educational training, which requires staying in Finland up to 90 days per half a year.

Required Documents for a Finland Schengen (Study up to 90 days) Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in Finnish or English and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors, below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous Schengen visa
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Accommodation (if not indicated in the invitation) - Confirmed accommodation (hotel, hostel, apartment) reservation mentioning applicant’s name, dates, and accommodation address details.

8. Proof of Visit

• Original Letter of Acceptance by the Finnish Education Institution including details of the course, duration, and fees with proof of payment
• Letter from the Department of Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs in Finland, if course to be followed leads to a higher academic qualification
• Letter from the Institute undertaking the return of the student to the country of residence upon completion of the study

9. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation), if any

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company)
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

10. Proof of Financial Means

         In the case of scholarship:

• Confirmation of receipt of a grant or scholarship from the relevant fund of Finland or the EU

         In the case of self-funding:

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

          In the case of sponsorship:

• Latest 6 months current account bank statement of a sponsor (showing sponsor’s name, an end balance, and date of issue).
• Sponsorship letter, copy of the first page of the sponsor’s passport with the data.

11. Overseas Medical Insurance

• Valid for the entire duration of the requested visa and for all Schengen countries.
• Minimum coverage 30,000 € and repatriation. (Medical insurances of credit cards are not accepted)
• Conditions must be stated either on the insurance document or on a separate confirmation letter

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Finland Schengen (Study up to 90 days) Visa

The average processing time for a Finland Schengen (Study up to 90 days) visa is 5-20 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Schengen (Study up to 90 days) Visa Fee

Since 02 February 2020, the fee for Schengen visas has been EUR 80, to be paid upon submission of the application. Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application Center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

According to the agreement, signed between The EU and Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia, and Ukraine, visa fee reduced to 35 EUR for the citizens of these countries.

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

• Children under six years
• School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
• Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
• Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
• For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
• For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of Finland citizens
• Parents of minor Finland citizens
• Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for the Finland Schengen (Study up to 90 days) Visa?

You will apply for Finland Schengen (Study up to 90 days) visa in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Finland Work (up to 90 days) Visa

A Finland Work (up to 90 days) visa is granted to you to undertake trips to Finland for short-term work activities, which requires staying in Finland up to 90 days per half a year.

Required Documents for Finland Work (up to 90 days) Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English or Finnish and signed and dated by the applicant himself 

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous Schengen visa
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Accommodation (if not indicated in the invitation) - Confirmed accommodation (hotel, hostel, apartment) reservation mentioning applicant’s name, dates, and accommodation address details.

8. Proof of Visit

• Invitation from your business partner in Finland

9. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation), if any

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

10 Proof of Financial Means

        In the case of self-funding:

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

       In the case of sponsorship:

• Latest 6 months current account bank statement of a sponsor (showing sponsor’s name, an end balance, and date of issue).
• Sponsorship letter, copy of the first page of the sponsor’s passport with the data.

11. Overseas Medical Insurance

• Valid for the entire duration of the requested visa and for all Schengen countries.
• Minimum coverage 30,000 € and repatriation. (Medical insurances of credit cards are not accepted)
• Conditions must be stated either on the insurance document or on a separate confirmation letter

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Finland Schengen (Work up to 90 days) Visa

The average processing time for a Finland Schengen (Work up to 90 days) visa is 5-20 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Schengen (Work up to 90 days) Visa Fee

Since 02 February 2020, the fee for Schengen visas has been EUR 80, to be paid upon submission of the application. Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application Center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Reduced visa fees for certain nationalities

According to the agreement, signed between The EU and Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia, and Ukraine, visa fee reduced to 35 EUR for the citizens of these countries.

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

• Children under six years
• School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
• Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
• Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
• For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
• For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of Finland citizens
• Parents of minor Finland citizens
• Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for the Finland Schengen (Work up to 90 days) Visa?

You will apply for a Finland Schengen (Work up to 90 days) visa in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

What is an Airport Transit Visa?

An airport transit visa allows you to change planes at a Finnish airport for onward travel to a destination outside the Schengen Area. The visa (also referred to as an 'A' visa) does not allow you to enter Finland or another Schengen country. This means you cannot leave the airport, nor the international zone of the airport.

Changing Planes for Onward Travel Within the Schengen Area: Short-Stay Visa

If you are traveling to another Schengen country via Finland, you will need a short-stay Schengen visa. Airport transit visas are not valid for this purpose.

Changing Planes Two Times within the Schengen Area for Onward Travel Outside Schengen: Short-Stay Visa

If you are transiting through two different Schengen airports for onward travel to a country outside Schengen and the first transit airport is in Finland, you need to apply for a short-stay Schengen visa. Airport transit visas are not valid for this purpose.

Regardless of whether or not you need an airport transit visa, it is the airline that decides to allow you onto the flight or not. Even if you have the necessary documents for your journey.

You Can Apply for an A-Type Visa Only if:

• You are planning to stay only in the airport's transit area and are not planning to leave it.  The A-Type visa does not authorize you to stay in the Schengen area.
• You are a citizen of one of the countries below: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka.

You Do Not Need to Apply for an A-Type Visa if You:

• Hold a diplomatic passport,
• Are a member of an EU citizen's closest family,
• Hold a C-Type or D-Type visa or a residence permit issued by one of the EU Member States
• Hold any of the residence permits listed in Annex V of the Community Code on Visas, issued by Andorra, Canada, Japan, San Marino, or the United States of America,
• Hold a valid visa of a European Economic Area country or Canada, Japan, or the United States of America, or you are returning from these countries after using such a visa.

Exemptions

Under certain circumstances, you do not require an airport transit visa. For example, if you:

• Have a visa or residence permit for a country in the Schengen Area, the EU or the EEA
• Have a visa for Canada, Japan, or the United States
• Have a residence permit guaranteeing an unlimited return for Andorra, San Marino, Canada, Japan, and the United States
• Are a family member of a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Finland (you need to be able to prove this)
• Hold a diplomatic passport
• Hold a service or official passport. Please note: this only applies to nationals of certain countries
• Are on-duty aircrew and a national of a country that is a member of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)

Required Documents for Finland Transit Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English or Finnish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors, below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your transiting through Finland.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.

4. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your transiting through Finland.

5. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous Schengen visa
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

6. Travel Itinerary

• Flight reservations for the entire trip

7. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

8. Overseas Medical Insurance

• Valid for the entire duration of the requested visa and for all Schengen countries.
• Minimum coverage 30,000 € and repatriation. (Medical insurances of credit cards are not accepted)
• Conditions must be stated either on the insurance document or on a separate confirmation letter

9. For Minors:

• Copy and Finnish or English translation of either birth certificate/proof of adoption/custody decree if parents are divorced/death certificate of parent
• “Letter of consent” from parents, including passport copies of both parents/legal guardian

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Finland Transit Visa

The average processing time for a Finland Transit visa is 5-20 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Transit Visa Fee

Finland Transit (A) visa fee is 60 EUR for foreign nationals.

Where to Apply for Finland Transit Visa?

You will apply for a Finland Transit visa in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

If you wish to come to Finland as a Start-up Entrepreneur you can apply for Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur. You can work additionally for an employer in Finland with a Start-up Entrepreneur residence permit. However, the main purpose of your stay must be entrepreneurship. Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur can be granted for the period of 2 years.

Required Documents for Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur

1. Application Form

• Electronic application form or
• Paper application form

2. Valid Passport and Color Copy of the Main Page

• It must be presented with residence permit application form

3. Passport Photo

• It must comply with photo guidelines
• Black and white or a color photograph
• In the JPEG format (not JPEG2000) (for electronically submitted photo)
• The maximum size can be 250 kilobytes (for electronically submitted photo)
• Dimensions of the photo must be 500 x 653 pixels (for electronically submitted photo)
• It must be taken within the last 6 months

4. Document Proving Legal Resident Status in the Country where You Present the Application

5. Positive Eligibility Statement

• It must be issued by Business Finland
• Without a Positive Eligibility Statement, you cannot apply for a residence permit
• No more than 2 months old

6. Secure Means of Support

• You need to have at least 1000 EUR per month to cover your expenses in Finland

7. Form MP_1

• This form must be filled if the applicant applies for a first residence permit only after arrival in Finland

*Additional documents can be required.

Processing Time for Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur

The average processing time for a Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur is 3-5 months. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur Fee

Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur fee is approximately 350 EUR for an electronic application, 480 EUR for a paper application. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Where to Apply for Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur?

You will apply for a Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location. If you apply for a residence permit in Finland, please, visit a Migri service point. You can book an appointment prior to submitting the application. You can also apply for a residence permit through Enter Finland.

Finland National Visa

Even if your country is exempt from visa requirements if you intend to stay longer than 90 days you will need to apply for a long-stay visa from your home country before coming to Finland.

The National Visa grants entry to Finland on the basis that you will be applying for a residence permit. It enables you to enter Finland as a potential resident and stay while you apply for residency. You will need to convert your visa into a residence permit within three months of arriving in Finland.

Finland Employment (National) Visa & EU Blue Card

This visa is designed for applicants wishing to take up employment in Finland, as well as for high skilled persons, who are candidates for a Blue Card of the European Union.

The EU Blue Card allows third-country nationals with a university degree to take up employment in Finland commensurate with their qualifications. Please note that potential Blue-Card holders need to earn a gross salary of 52.000 € or MINT profession (Mathematics / Informatics / Natural Sciences / Technology) require at least 40.560€ and shall have found a position in their field of study.

Required Documents for Finland Employment (National) Visa & Blue Card

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English or Finnish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors, below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Valid for at least 3 months beyond return date – are required.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous Schengen visa/ Finland resident permit

7. Original Employment Letter from the Applicant's Employer in Finland

• On the official company paper with stamp and signature, date and clearly mentioning: full address and contact details of the company, the name, and position of the countersigning officer, details regarding the employment of the applicant (e.g. position, salary, estimated duration), details regarding additional conditions of employment (e.g. accommodation, transport, living expenses).

8. Proof of Registration of the Employing Company

9. Employment Confirmation issued by the Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs Department in Finland

10. Work Permit Letter issued by the Finnish Authorities

• Should not be more than 60 days from the date of the issue. If the letter is more than 60 days they cannot apply and the employer should request another letter from the Finnish Authorities.

11. In case of International Transfer of the Employee:

• A letter from the current employer confirming the transfer, and approving the leave/absence of the applicant

12. Proof of Qualification

       a) General employment:

• All University degrees required and vocational Training certificate

       b) EU Blue-Card Candidate:

• Finnish university degree or
• Recognized foreign university and foreign degree comparable to a Finnish degree.

13. Curriculum Vitae (CV) of Professional Career, Specifying the Certificates, Diplomas, and Qualifications you have obtained.

14. Work Experience Certificate

• Copies and originals

15. Proof of Accommodation

• Accommodation (if not indicated in the invitation or contract) - Confirmed accommodation (hotel, hostel, apartment) reservation mentioning applicant’s name, dates, and accommodation address details.

16. Police Record

• A document no older than six months, that shows that you have committed no criminal activity in the last 5 years.

17. Medical Certificate

• A document issued by a legally known physician which states that you are not suffering from any disease or that you may have a serious public health impact.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Finland Employment (National) Visa

The average processing time for a Finland Employment (National) Visa is 10-60 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Employment (National) Visa Fee

The Finnish Employment (National) visa fee is 80 EUR (it may vary depending on your country of application) for foreign nationals. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Where to Apply for Finland Employment (National) Visa?

You will apply for a Finland Employment (National) visa in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Finland Study (National) Visa

This visa is intended to permit foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa, allowing them to stay in Finland for a longer period. This visa applies to those who are admitted to the state college or state university in Finland.

Required Documents for Finland Study (National) Visa

1. Application Form

• Fully completed in English or Finnish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors, below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Valid for at least 3 months beyond return date – are required.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous Schengen visa/ Finland resident permit

7. Details from Your University in Finland:

     a) Confirmed University Admission

• Admission letter issued by an educational institution (school/college/university) accredited in Finland
  • Must state language of instruction
  • Must contain the start and end dates of the course
• Those in full-time education should submit a letter from their education establishment clearly indicating the course of studies being followed.
• Letter from the Institute undertaking the return of the student to the country of residence upon completion of the study.

     b) Confirmed Language Course with Conditional University Admission

• Receipt/confirmation of language course payment in advance
• Proof of conditional university admission or confirmation of admission as an applicant or detailed communication with the University for a concrete subject of study

8. Documents Attesting Previous Education (originals should be presented at the counter):

• Higher secondary certificate - if the applicant applies for a visa on the basis of a university certificate on admission to the first year of studies
• In a preparatory course, one must submit the higher secondary certificate legalized/attested/apostilled by the MEA/MFA.
• Higher studies certificates/diplomas of graduation - if the applicant applies for a visa on the basis of a university certificate on admission to the second and third cycle studies, he/she must provide the higher studies certificate/diploma of graduation legalized/attested/apostilled by the MEA/MFA.

9. In the Case of Student Exchange:

• The original certificate from the university confirming that the applicant is a student.
• Copy of the agreement/official information from the universities regarding the student exchange.
• Invitation from the Finnish university.

10. Knowledge of Language, for cases of Confirmed University Admission and Confirmed Admission to a Preparation Course for University

• Proof of language proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS), if the course is taught in English

11. Proof of Accommodation in Finland

• Document confirming the availability in Finland of appropriate accommodation for the intended period of stay (documents shall contain information about the cost of living; the costs for a full period or monthly payment must be indicated)

12. Proof of Economic Solvency

• Original bank statement for the past 6 months
• If the sponsor will cover the expenses, the original bank statement for 6 months should be presented along with the guarantee letter and passport copy
• Proof of Employment: Those in full-time gainful employment should submit a letter

13. Documents Confirming the Sufficient Financial Resources (of applicant or sponsor)

• Traveler’s cheque
• Certificate of the amount of the credit card limit issued by the bank (any bank located in Finland or another country is allowed)
• A certificate of availability of money in a bank or a cooperative savings and loan association located on the territory of the Republic of Finland (it cannot be a bank located in your country)
• A document confirming granting of a national or foreign scholarship
• A certificate of employment with a monthly salary statement

14. Medical Insurance

• You must purchase health insurance arranged with an insurance company authorized to operate in Finland with a validity of one year. Travel insurance is not accepted.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Finland Study (National) Visa

The average processing time for a Finland Study (National) visa is 10-60 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Study (National) Visa Fee

When you submit your application for a Finland Student (National) Visa, you will also need to pay a certain fee. The fee is required in order to cover the expenses for the processing of your application. The Finnish Study (National) Visa fee is 80 EUR (it may vary depending on your country of application) for foreign nationals. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Where to Apply for Finland Study (National) Visa?

You will apply for Finland Study (National) Visa in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Finland Family Reunion Visa

This visa is intended to permit foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa, allowing them to stay in Finland for a longer period. This visa applies to family members of Finland nationals and wishing to obtain a permit for long-term residence in Finland.

Required Documents for Finland Family Reunion Visa

1. Application Form

• Fully completed in English or Finnish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors, below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Valid for at least 3 months beyond return date – are required.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous Schengen visa/ Finland resident permit

7. Details of Spouse

• Passport copy
• For spouses of foreign nationals have to submit a copy of their partner's residence permit for Finland.
• Certificate of residence of the spouse living in Finland, not older than 6 months

8. Marriage Certificate

    a) Finland Marriage Certificate:

• Finland certificate of marriage or extract from the Family Register, along with certified copies.

    b) Foreign Marriage Certificate:

• Foreign documents or certificates are often only recognized by the authorities of a state if their authenticity and evidentiary value has been determined by a special procedure.

9. Letter from the Department of Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs in Finland

• Confirming family reunification rights

10. Divorce Decree of Previous Marriages or Death Certificate of Former Spouse (if the applicant has been previously married)

• Foreign documents or certificates are often only recognized by the authorities of a state if their authenticity and evidentiary value has been determined by a special procedure

11. Proof of Accommodation in Finland

• Copy of lease certificate of the apartment in Finland or title deed of owned property, if the partner is already residing in Finland.
• If the host provides accommodation – document indicating the right of ownership/right to use (e.g. rental agreement) clearly allowing to lodge guests at this location.

12. Proof of Sufficient Means of Substance

• Copy of employment certificate of the foreign spouse who intends to live in Finland
• Salary slips from the past three months if is living in Finland.

     In the case of self-funding:

• Personal bank statements of the last 6 months before application, personal property, assets, etc.
• Credit card
• Cash
• Traveler’s cheques
• Payslips
• Proof of employment
• Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
• Proof of prepaid accommodation
• Document about accommodation in private
• Proof of prepaid transport
• Other

     In case of sponsorship:

• Latest 6 months current account bank statement of a sponsor (showing sponsor’s name, an end balance, and date of issue).
• Sponsorship letter, copy of the first page of the sponsor’s passport with the data.

13. Health Insurance will Only be Requested Where Applicable

       Requirements:

• Proof of health insurance for the stay in Finland.
• Offer letter from a Finnish Health Insurance company, stating the expected month fees.

*Additional Documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Finland Family Reunion Visa

The average processing time for a Finland Family Reunion National visa is 10-60 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Family Reunion Visa Fee

When you submit your application for a Finland Family Reunion National Visa, you will also need to pay a certain fee. The fee is required in order to cover the expenses for the processing of your application. The Finnish National (long-term) Visa fee is 80 EUR (it may vary depending on your country of application) for foreign nationals. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission. Spouses and children of Finnish and EU/EFTA nationals; CERN and UN personnel (official trips only); students who study in Finland are free of charge.

Where to Apply for Finland Family Reunion Visa?

You will apply for a Finland Family Reunion National visa in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Finland Self-Employment Visa

Finland Self-Employment (Entrepreneurial) Visa can be granted to third-country nationals investing in the national economy of Finland, whose who are or intend to become stockholders or shareholders, with management or administration powers in companies that are Finland legal entities.

Required Documents for Finland Self-Employment Visa

1. Application Form

• Fully completed in English or Finnish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors, below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Valid for at least 3 months beyond return date – are required.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous Schengen visa/ Finland resident permit

7. Company Profile

    a) Head Office

• Name, Address, Phone, Fax, E-mail, Website
• Shareholders
• Executive Board/ Board of Directors
• Equity capital – Registered and Paid Up
• Annual turnover worldwide Last Year, This Year, Within EU)
• Number of Staff (Worldwide and in Head Office)
• Bank Connections (House Bank, Banks in other Countries)
• Summary of the company history (year of foundation, activities, products, main markets…)

    b) New Office

• Name, Address, Phone, Fax, E-mail, Website
• Registered shareholders
• Managing Director
• Planned start of business
• Business activities
• Capital
• Annual turnover in Finland planned for the first and second year
• Business references in Finland or Europe (Customers, Suppliers, along with their contact details)
• Contacts in Finland (e.g. business partner, lawyer, tax advisor, bank…)
• Number of planned staff (without the managing director) for the first year and after three years

8. Business Plan

• Description of the project
• Liquidity Planning

9. Concept

• Business concept, products/services
• Legal form, partners, founder members (including CVs), management, staff
• Location, office space
• Industry, market, competence
• Client target group
• Marketing-/sales strategy, co-operation partner
• Forecast, trends, risks

10. Capital Budget

• Liquid funds
• Tangible assets /Goods on their own accounts
• Affiliated loans/Third-party funds
• Venture Capital

11. A Certificate Of Criminal Record

• Issued in the country where you have resided in the last five years. This document too, must not be older than 90 days, must be duly apostilled, with translation into Finnish or English.

12. Personal Details

• Language knowledge
• Intended function
• CV

13. Medical Insurance

• You must purchase health insurance arranged with an insurance company authorized to operate in Finland with a validity of one year. Travel insurance is not accepted.

 *Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Finland Self-Employment Visa

The average processing time for a Finland Entrepreneur visa is 10-60 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Self-Employment Visa Fee

When you submit your application for a Finland Entrepreneur visa, you will also need to pay a certain fee. The fee is required in order to cover the expenses for the processing of your application. The Finnish National (long-term) Visa fee is 80 EUR (it may vary depending on your country of application) for foreign nationals. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Additionally, the visa fee for strategic investors, pursuant to Article 16, Act 4251/2014, is 0 EUR.

Where to Apply for Finland Self-Employment Visa?

You will apply for a Finland Entrepreneur (National) visa in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Finland Au Pair Visa

This visa is intended to allow foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa, allowing them to stay in Finland for a longer period. This visa applies for young people welcomed temporarily into a family, where he/she is lodged and fed in return for light everyday family tasks, to perfect his linguistic knowledge and increase his general culture through an improved familiarity with the country while participating in the life of the host family.

Required Documents for Finland Au Pair Visa

1. Application Form

• Fully completed in English or Finnish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors, below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Valid for at least 3 months beyond return date – are required.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

 3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Finland.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous Schengen visa/ Finland resident permit

7. Invitation Letter from the Host Family Clarifying the Following:

• At least one under-age child (minor) in the host family
• No kinship between the au pair and the host parents
• That least one of the host parents speaks Finnish (or other) as a mother language

8. Agreement with the Host Family

• This document must include the duration of the agreement, which must be no longer than a year. It should also state the work conditions – working hours, days off, pocket money, obligations, etc. -and give the address of the host family and other details about them.

9. Au Pair / Host Family Questionnaire

10. Motivation Letter (why do you wish to go to Finland?) in Finnish or English

11. Documents Reflecting Your Previous Education and Skills

• School certificates
• University degree certificates
• Internships
• Trainings
• University and/or employment confirmation

12. A Certificate of Criminal Record

• Issued in the country where you have resided in the last five years. This document too, must not be older than 90 days, must be duly apostilled, with translation into Finnish or English.

13. Medical Insurance

• You must purchase health insurance arranged with an insurance company authorized to operate in Finland with a validity of one year. Travel insurance is not accepted.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Finland Au Pair Visa

The average processing time for a Finland Au Pair visa is 10-60 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Au Pair Visa Fee

When you submit your application for a Finland Au Pair visa, you will also need to pay a certain fee. The fee is required in order to cover the expenses for the processing of your application. The Finnish National (long-term) Visa fee is 80 EUR (it may vary depending on your country of application) for foreign nationals. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Where to Apply for Finland Au Pair Visa?

You will apply for a Finland National Au Pair visa in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Finland Residence Permit

If you come from outside the EU and intend to stay in Finland for more than 90 days you need to apply for a residence permit. Citizens from EU member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, or Norway are not required a residence permit but they need to register a right of residence.

Finland Residence Permit for Employed Person

You can apply for a Finland Residence Permit if you wish to work for an employer in Finland for a duration longer than 90 days. To apply for the residence permit you need to have an employment contract or job offer. After submitting the application Employment and Economic Development Office (TE Office) will evaluate the availability of sufficient means of support, job characteristics (continuous or temporary), and availability of labor force in Finland within a reasonable time. You can apply for a residence permit by filing both electronic and paper applications. After that, the decision will be made by the immigration Service. A residence permit for an employed person is connected with labor market testing, which means that the employer must establish if there is an available labor force within a reasonable time in Finland

Required Documents for Finland Residence Permit for Employed Person

1. Application Form

• Electronic application form or
• Paper application form

2. Valid Passport and Color Copy of the Main Page

• It must be presented with residence permit application form

3. Passport Photo

• It must comply with photo guidelines
• Black and white or a color photograph
• In the JPEG format (not JPEG2000) (for electronically submitted photo)
• The maximum size can be 250 kilobytes (for electronically submitted photo)
• Dimensions of the photo must be 500 x 653 pixels (for electronically submitted photo)
• It must be taken within the last 6 months

4. Document Proving Legal Resident Status in the Country where You Present the Application

5. Employment Contract or Job Offer

6. In case of Working in Health Care or Social Welfare

• Authorization to practice the profession

7. Form MP_1

• This form must be filled if the applicant applies for a first residence permit only after arrival in Finland

8. Income Requirement

• You need to earn sufficient income to maintain your living in Finland. You can find details about the minimum salary requirement here

9. Required Documents from the Employer

• TEM 0.54 form
• Certificate showing Tax Debt or Paid Tax. It must be issued within the last 3 months
• Certificate of Unemployment Insurance. It must be from Employment Fund
• TyEL insurance and accident insurance certificate from the insurance company
• Report expressing the number of employees in the company. Proportions of part and full-time employees must be included
• Recruitment Report. It must be from the Finnish Labor Market.

10. Specific Requirements

• If you intend to work in the food industry (worker in a restaurant, packaging and etc.):
  • Salmonella Certificate must be presented
• If your job includes taking care of children who are below school age
  • Tuberculosis Certificate

*Additional documents can be required.

Processing Time for Finland Residence Permit for Employed Person

The average processing time for a Finland Residence Permit for Employed Person is 2-6 months for an electronic application, 3-10 months for a paper application. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Residence Permit for Employed Person Fee

Finland Residence Permit for Employed Person fee is approximately 490 EUR for an electronic application, 690 EUR for a paper application. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Where to Apply for Finland Residence Permit for Employed Person?

You will apply for a Finland Residence Permit for Employed Person in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location. If you apply for a residence permit in Finland, please, visit a Migri service point. You can book an appointment prior to submitting the application. You can also apply for a residence permit through Enter Finland.

Finland Residence Permit for an Entrepreneur

Finland Residence Permit for an Entrepreneur allows you to enter Finland and become an entrepreneur. After submitting the application Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY Centre) will make a partial decision. Then, the Finnish Immigration Service will make the final decision regarding the application. Your business activity must be profitable. Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY Centre) will evaluate the profitability of the business. You can work additionally for an employer in Finland with an Entrepreneur residence permit. However, the main purpose of your stay must be entrepreneurship.

Required Documents for Finland Residence Permit for an Entrepreneur

1. Application Form

• Electronic application form or
• Paper application form

2. Valid Passport and Color Copy of the Main Page

• It must be presented with residence permit application form

3. Passport Photo

• It must comply with photo guidelines
• Black and white or a color photograph
• In the JPEG format (not JPEG2000) (for electronically submitted photo)
• The maximum size can be 250 kilobytes (for electronically submitted photo)
• Dimensions of the photo must be 500 x 653 pixels (for electronically submitted photo)
• It must be taken within the last 6 months

4. Document Proving Legal Resident Status in the Country where You Present the Application

5. Business Registration in the Trade Register

• It must be from Finnish Patent and Registration Office

6. Specific Attachments

• Trade Register Extract
• Details of business idea
• A report indicating number of employees
• Professional qualifications
• Documents showing assets and income of the business
• If the company is an established entity:
  • Latest financial statements
• If the company has not established yet:
  • The profitability of the company. It includes estimated numbers for revenue and expenses
  • Signed agreements with partners or customers (if any)

7. Form MP_1

• This form must be filled if the applicant applies for a first residence permit only after arrival in Finland

*Additional documents can be required.

Processing Time for Finland Residence Permit for an Entrepreneur

The average processing time for a Finland Residence Permit for an Entrepreneur is 7-11 months. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Residence Permit for an Entrepreneur Fee

Finland Residence Permit for an Entrepreneur fee is approximately 490 EUR for an electronic application, 690 EUR for a paper application. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Where to Apply for Finland Residence Permit for an Entrepreneur?

You will apply for a Finland Residence Permit for an Entrepreneur in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location. If you apply for a residence permit in Finland, please, visit a Migri service point. You can book an appointment prior to submitting the application. You can also apply for a residence permit through Enter Finland.

Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur

If you wish to come to Finland as a Start-up Entrepreneur you can apply for Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur. You can work additionally for an employer in Finland with a Start-up Entrepreneur residence permit. However, the main purpose of your stay must be entrepreneurship. Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur can be granted for the period of 2 years.

Required Documents for Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur

1. Application Form

• Electronic application form or
• Paper application form

2. Valid Passport and Color Copy of the Main Page

• It must be presented with residence permit application form

3. Passport Photo

• It must comply with photo guidelines
• Black and white or a color photograph
• In the JPEG format (not JPEG2000) (for electronically submitted photo)
• The maximum size can be 250 kilobytes (for electronically submitted photo)
• Dimensions of the photo must be 500 x 653 pixels (for electronically submitted photo)
• It must be taken within the last 6 months

4. Document Proving Legal Resident Status in the Country where You Present the Application

5. Positive Eligibility Statement

• It must be issued by Business Finland
• Without a Positive Eligibility Statement, you cannot apply for a residence permit
• No more than 2 months old

6. Secure Means of Support

• You need to have at least 1000 EUR per month to cover your expenses in Finland

7. Form MP_1

• This form must be filled if the applicant applies for a first residence permit only after arrival in Finland

*Additional documents can be required.

Processing Time for Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur

The average processing time for a Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur is 3-5 months. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur Fee

Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur fee is approximately 350 EUR for an electronic application, 480 EUR for a paper application. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Where to Apply for Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur?

You will apply for a Finland Residence Permit for Start-up Entrepreneur in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location. If you apply for a residence permit in Finland, please, visit a Migri service point. You can book an appointment prior to submitting the application. You can also apply for a residence permit through Enter Finland.

Finland Residence Permit for Specialist

If you wish to work as a specialist in Finland you can apply for Finland Residence Permit for Specialist. The tasks in your our job in Finland should require expert knowledge. You should earn higher wages than average. This requirement is at least 3000 EUR per month. If your job offers less than this amount you need to apply for residence for an employed person. You can work as a specialist even before obtaining a residence permit for a specialist if you are in Finland. But you should stay in Finland legally. However, you cannot work after the duration of the permitted stay ends.

Required Documents for Finland Residence Permit for Specialist

1. Application Form

• Electronic application form or
• Paper application form

2. Valid Passport and Color Copy of the Main Page

• It must be presented with residence permit application form

3. Passport Photo

• It must comply with photo guidelines
• Black and white or a color photograph
• In the JPEG format (not JPEG2000) (for electronically submitted photo)
• The maximum size can be 250 kilobytes (for electronically submitted photo)
• Dimensions of the photo must be 500 x 653 pixels (for electronically submitted photo)
• It must be taken within the last 6 months

4. Document Proving Legal Resident Status in the Country where You Present the Application

5. Employment Contract or Job Offer

• Terms and conditions must be included
• Job description

6. Consultancy Agreement

7. Fridge Benefit Certificate

• It includes additions to compensation that companies give their employees
• The certificate must be issued by the employer

8. Academic Qualifications

• Higher education certificates

9. Form MP_1

• This form must be filled if the applicant applies for a first residence permit only after arrival in Finland

*Additional documents can be required.

Processing Time for Finland Residence Permit for Specialist

The average processing time for a Finland Residence Permit for Specialist is 1-2 months for an electronic application, 2 months for a paper application. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Residence Permit for Specialist Fee

Finland Residence Permit for Specialist is approximately 410 EUR for an electronic application, 610 EUR for a paper application. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Where to Apply for Finland Residence Permit for Specialist?

You will apply for a Finland Residence Permit for Specialist in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location. If you apply for a residence permit in Finland, please, visit a Migri service point. You can book an appointment prior to submitting the application. You can also apply for a residence permit through Enter Finland.

Finland Residence Permit for EU Blue Card

EU Blue Card issued by Finland allows you to work only in Finland. You can move to another EU member country as an EU Blue Cardholder. If the second EU member country doesn’t issue EU Blue Card to you can return to Finland. The family member with a Finland residence permit who accompanies you can move and return to Finland with you. Finland EU Blue Card is issued for a maximum duration of 2 years. If your employment is less than 2 years you will obtain an EU Blue Card for the period of employment and additional 3 months. You cannot commence working before obtaining EU Blue Card. The duration of the work must be at least 1 year.

Required Documents for Finland Residence Permit for EU Blue Card

1. Application Form

• Electronic application form or
• Paper application form

2. Valid Passport and Color Copy of the Main Page

• It must be presented with residence permit application form

3. Passport Photo

• It must comply with photo guidelines
• Black and white or a color photograph
• In the JPEG format (not JPEG2000) (for electronically submitted photo)
• The maximum size can be 250 kilobytes (for electronically submitted photo)
• Dimensions of the photo must be 500 x 653 pixels (for electronically submitted photo)
• It must be taken within the last 6 months

4. Document Proving Legal Resident Status in the Country where You Present the Application

5. Employment Contract or Job Offer

• It must include a job description and salary details
• Your tasks must require special qualifications and expertise
• Your earning must be higher than average
  • At least 4929 EUR per month. Fridge benefits are not included here

6. Academic Qualifications from Recognized Educational Institutions’

• Higher education degree (diplomas, certificates)
  • They must be issued by competent authorities
  • Higher education must include at least 3 years of study

7. Form MP_1

• This form must be filled if the applicant applies for a first residence permit only after arrival in Finland

*Additional documents can be required.

Processing Time for Finland Residence Permit for EU Blue Card

The average processing time for a Finland Residence Permit for EU Blue Card is 1-2 months for an electronic application, 2 months for a paper application. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Residence Permit for EU Blue Card Fee

Finland Residence Permit for EU Blue Card fee is approximately 410 EUR for an electronic application, 610 EUR for a paper application. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Where to Apply for Finland Residence Permit for EU Blue Card?

You will apply for a Finland Residence Permit for EU Blue Card in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location. If you apply for a residence permit in Finland, please, visit a Migri service point. You can book an appointment prior to submitting the application. You can also apply for a residence permit through Enter Finland.

Finland Residence Permit for Researcher

If you are planning to perform scientific activities (scientific study or research for a Licentiate’s degree) in Finland you can apply for Finland Residence Permit for Researcher. You can work as a researcher even before obtaining a residence permit for a researcher if you are in Finland. However, you should stay in Finland legally. You cannot work after the duration of the permitted stay ends.

You are considered to be a researcher if:

• You have doctoral degrees. In this case, you have access to doctoral programs
• You are chosen by a research institution
• You have access to EU member countries to conduct research activities (Second cycle degree is requested)  

Required Documents for Finland Residence Permit for Researcher

1. Application Form

• Electronic application form or
• Paper application form

2. Valid Passport and Color Copy of the Main Page

• It must be presented with residence permit application form

3. Passport Photo

• It must comply with photo guidelines
• Black and white or a color photograph
• In the JPEG format (not JPEG2000) (for electronically submitted photo)
• The maximum size can be 250 kilobytes (for electronically submitted photo)
• Dimensions of the photo must be 500 x 653 pixels (for electronically submitted photo)
• It must be taken within the last 6 months

4. Document Proving Legal Resident Status in the Country where You Present the Application

5. Research Agreement

• An agreement between researcher and research institution must be signed. The agreement should include:
  • Reason and the title of the research
  • Undertaking to conduct ad completing the research activity
  • Duration of the research
  • The legal relationship between research institution and researcher
  • Working conditions

6. Certificates of Qualifications

• Doctoral or Second cycle degree certificates

7. Proof of Sufficient Means

• If you are not in an employment relationship:
  • You need to maintain your living in Finland. You must have at least 1000 EUR per month to cover the living expenses.
• If you are in an employment relationship:
  • Your gross salary must be at least 1252 EUR per month. Please, visit Income Requirement for more details

8. Form MP_1

• This form must be filled if the applicant applies for a first residence permit only after arrival in Finland

*Additional documents can be required.

Processing Time for Finland Residence Permit for Researcher

The average processing time for a Finland Residence Permit for Researcher is 1-3 months for an electronic application, 2-3 months for a paper application. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Residence Permit for Researcher Fee

Finland Residence Permit for Researcher fee is approximately 410 EUR for an electronic application, 610 EUR for a paper application. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Where to Apply for Finland Residence Permit for Researcher?

You will apply for a Finland Residence Permit for Researcher in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location. If you apply for a residence permit in Finland, please, visit a Migri service point. You can book an appointment prior to submitting the application. You can also apply for a residence permit through Enter Finland.

Finland Residence Permit for Au Pair

You can apply for Finland Residence Permit for Au Pair if you wish to perform light housework in exchange for being familiarized with the culture and language of Finland. However, basic knowledge of Finnish or Swedish is required. Au pair’s working hours must be scheduled carefully in order to allow him/her to take Finnish or Swedish classes in Finland. People between 17-30 can be au pair if they have not worked as au pair before. You should not be related to the host’s family members. You can work for 1 year with a residence permit. It is not allowed to work before obtaining a residence permit.

Required Documents for Finland Residence Permit for Au Pair

1. Application Form

• Electronic application form or
• Paper application form

2. Valid Passport and Color Copy of the Main Page

• It must be presented with residence permit application form

3. Passport Photo

• It must comply with photo guidelines
• Black and white or a color photograph
• In the JPEG format (not JPEG2000) (for electronically submitted photo)
• The maximum size can be 250 kilobytes (for electronically submitted photo)
• Dimensions of the photo must be 500 x 653 pixels (for electronically submitted photo)
• It must be taken within the last 6 months

4. Document Proving Legal Resident Status in the Country where You Present the Application

5. Agreement Between Au Pair and Host Family

• Accommodation, obligations, and rights must be included
• Benefits can be provided by the host family
• 280 EUR as pocket money
• Maximum 25 hours of duties and distribution of them
• The proportion of free days
• Courses in which au pair will improve his/her language (Finnish, Swedish) skills

6. General Health Certificate

• The certificate must show you are not suffering from tuberculosis, salmonella or hepatitis
• It must be issued within the last 3 months

7. Health Insurance

• It must cover the whole period of the stay

8. Language Skills Certificates

• Certificates showing you have acquired basic knowledge of Finnish or Swedish

9. Certificate of Interest

• It must express your interest in the culture of Finnish

10. Form MP_1

• This form must be filled if the applicant applies for a first residence permit only after arrival in Finland

*Additional documents can be required.

Processing Time for Finland Residence Permit for Au Pair

The average processing time for a Finland Residence Permit for Au Pair is 1-6 months. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Residence Permit for Au Pair Fee

Finland Residence Permit for Au Pair fee is approximately 410 EUR for an electronic application, 610 EUR for a paper application. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Where to Apply for Finland Residence Permit for Au Pair?

You will apply for a Finland Residence Permit for Au Pair in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location. If you apply for a residence permit in Finland, please, visit a Migri service point. You can book an appointment prior to submitting the application. You can also apply for a residence permit through Enter Finland.

Finland Residence Permit for Studies

If you are accepted to an educational institution in Finland you can apply for Finland Residence Permit for Studies. These educational institutions include universities, upper secondary schools, and vocational education institutions. Finland Residence Permit for Studies is granted for the period of 2 years if you don’t apply for a shorter duration.

  1. Application Form

• Electronic application form or
• Paper application form

2. Valid Passport and Color Copy of the Main Page

• It must be presented with residence permit application form

3. Passport Photo

• It must comply with photo guidelines
• Black and white or a color photograph
• In the JPEG format (not JPEG2000) (for electronically submitted photo)
• The maximum size can be 250 kilobytes (for electronically submitted photo)
• Dimensions of the photo must be 500 x 653 pixels (for electronically submitted photo)
• It must be taken within the last 6 months

4. Document Proving Legal Resident Status in the Country where You Present the Application

5. Acceptance Letter from Educational Institution

6. Health Insurance

7. Proof of Financial Means

• You need to have 560 EUR per month to cover the expenses
• Bank statements with the name of the account holder
• Sponsorship from parents or relatives
  • Source of funds must be included
• If a scholarship is granted:
  • Attachment of scholarship decision

8. Certificates of Earlier Degrees

9. For Minors (under the age of 18)

• Birth certificate (legalized)
• Consent letter from parents to move to Finland. It must be verified by a notary public

10. Document Proving Paid Tuition Fee

*Additional documents can be required.

Processing Time for Finland Residence Permit for Studies

The average processing time for a Finland Residence Permit for Studies is 2-3 months for an electronic application, 3 months for a paper application. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Residence Permit for Studies Fee

Finland Residence Permit for Studies fee is approximately 350 EUR for an electronic application, 450 EUR for a paper application. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Where to Apply for Finland Residence Permit for Studies?

You will apply for a Finland Residence Permit for Studies in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location. If you apply for a residence permit in Finland, please, visit a Migri service point. You can book an appointment prior to submitting the application. You can also apply for a residence permit through Enter Finland.

Finland Residence Permit for Moving to Finland with Family Member (Spouse)

If your spouse or partner is a resident or citizen in Finland you can move to Finland by obtaining Finland Residence Permit for Moving to Finland with Family Member (Spouse).  

Required Documents for Moving to Finland with Family Member (Spouse)

  1. Application Form

• Electronic application form or
• Paper application form

2. Valid Passport and Color Copy of the Main Page

• It must be presented with residence permit application form
• Spouse’s passport and a color copy of it must be included

3. Passport Photo

• It must comply with photo guidelines
• Black and white or a color photograph
• In the JPEG format (not JPEG2000) (for electronically submitted photo)
• The maximum size can be 250 kilobytes (for electronically submitted photo)
• Dimensions of the photo must be 500 x 653 pixels (for electronically submitted photo)
• It must be taken within the last 6 months

4. Document Proving Legal Resident Status in the Country where You Present the Application

5. Clarification of Family Ties: Residence Permit Application for Spouse

• The form must be filled by the spouse who lives in Finland

6. Marriage or Registered Partnership Certificate

• If the certificate is not issued in Nordic or EU member states it must be legalized
• In case of dissolved partnership certificate:
  • Dissolution certificate of registered partnership

7. Statements on Income

• They must be from the spouse in Finland
• Banks statements for the last 6 months and payslips
• Copy of Tax Return and Tax Card
• Copy of employment contract of the spouse
• If the spouse has business in Finland:
  • Financial statements, audit reports
  • Number of the employees
  • Trade Register Extract
• If you work in Finland:
  • Employment contract

8. Divorce Certificate

• A divorce certificate is required if you and your spouse have been married previously
• If the certificate is not issued in Nordic or EU member states it must be legalized

9. Death Certificate

• A death certificate is required if you and your partner have been previously been married or in a registered partnership and the former spouse has passed away

10. Form MP_1

• This form must be filled if the applicant applies for a first residence permit only after arrival in Finland

*Additional documents can be required.

Processing Time for Finland Residence Permit for Moving to Finland with Family Member (Spouse)

The average processing time for a Finland Residence Permit for Moving to Finland with Family Member (Spouse) is 2-8 months for an electronic application, 6-9 months for a paper application. It depends on your visa application country.

Finland Residence Permit for Moving to Finland with Family Member (Spouse) Fee

Finland Residence Permit for Moving to Finland with Family Member (Spouse) fee is approximately 470 EUR for an electronic application, 520 EUR for a paper application. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Where to Apply for Finland Residence Permit for Moving to Finland with Family Member (Spouse)?

You will apply for a Finland Residence Permit for Moving to Finland with a Family Member (Spouse) in Finland visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location. If you apply for a residence permit in Finland, please, visit a Migri service point. You can book an appointment prior to submitting the application. You can also apply for a residence permit through  Enter Finland.