Foreign nationals moving to Finland have several options for obtaining residency status. The type of residency depends on factors such as the length of stay, the purpose of the visit, and the individual’s circumstances.
Temporary residence
Schengen Visa
Foreign nationals who are citizens of certain countries require a Schengen visa to enter Finland. The Schengen visa allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The visa can be used for tourism, business, or other short-term visits.
Residence Permit for a Fixed Period
Foreign nationals who plan to stay in Finland for more than 90 days but less than one year can apply for a residence permit for a fixed period. This permit is available for a variety of purposes, including work, study, family reunification, and research.
Seasonal Work Permit
Foreign nationals who come to Finland for seasonal work can apply for a seasonal work permit. This permit allows stays of up to nine months within a 12-month period. The permit is available for work in certain industries, such as agriculture and tourism.
Permanent residence
Residence Permit for an Unlimited Period
Foreign nationals who plan to stay in Finland for longer than a year can apply for a residence permit for an unlimited period. This permit is available for a variety of purposes, including work, study, family reunification, and research.
EU Blue Card
Foreign nationals who are highly skilled workers can apply for an EU Blue Card, which allows them to work and live in Finland for up to four years. The card is available to workers who have a job offer in Finland and meet certain salary and education requirements.
Applying for Residency in Finland
The process for applying for residency in Finland varies depending on the type of residency being sought. In general, the application process involves submitting an application and supporting documents to the Finnish Immigration Service.
Temporary residence
Applications for temporary residence in Finland are typically submitted to a Finnish embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country. The application must be submitted in person, and the applicant must provide biometric data, such as fingerprints.
Permanent residence
Applications for permanent residence in Finland are submitted to the Finnish Immigration Service. The application can be submitted online or in person at a service point. The applicant must provide biometric data, such as fingerprints.
Supporting documents
To support a residency application in Finland, foreign nationals must provide certain documents. The exact documents required depend on the type of residency being sought and the individual’s circumstances.
Temporary residence
Supporting documents for a temporary residence application may include a passport, travel insurance, a letter of invitation, and proof of sufficient funds.
Permanent residence
Supporting documents for a permanent residence application may include a passport, proof of income, proof of accommodation, and a criminal record certificate.
Registering with the government
Foreign nationals who plan to stay in Finland for more than three months are required to register with the Finnish Population Information System. This can be done at a service point of the Digital and Population Data Services Agency.
Where to find information
The Finnish Immigration Service is the primary source of information for foreign nationals seeking residency in Finland. The Service’s website provides detailed information on the various types of residency, the application process, and supporting documents. Additionally, the Finnish embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country can provide information and assistance.
For reliable and up-to-date information on residency in Finland, individuals can visit the following websites:
- Finnish Immigration Service (Migri): https://migri.fi/
- Finnish Population Register Center (PRC): https://vrk.fi/en
- Finnish Ministry of the Interior: https://intermin.fi/en
Individuals can also seek advice from immigration lawyers or consult with the Finnish Immigration Service.