Migration questions Finland

Types of Residence Permits

 

 

 

Temporary Residence Permit: Usually issued for purposes such as work, study, or family reunification. The duration is typically one year but can be extended if conditions are met.

 

Permanent Residence Permit: Allows you to reside in Germany indefinitely. To obtain this permit, you typically need to have a temporary residence permit for a certain period, demonstrate financial stability, and meet other criteria, such as language proficiency.

 

EU Blue Card: Designed for highly qualified workers from non-EU countries. A higher education degree and a job offer in Germany with a minimum annual salary are required.

 

 

 

Necessary Documents

 

 

 

- Valid Passport: The passport must be valid for the entire stay.

 

- Application Form: Completed and signed.

 

- Proof of Health Insurance: Mandatory for all applicants.

 

- Biometric Photographs: Recent passport-sized photos.

 

- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, employment contract, or blocked bank account for students.

 

- Proof of Accommodation: Rental contract and confirmation from the landlord.

 

- Documents supporting the purpose of stay: Depending on the reason for stay (e.g., employment contract, university admission letter, marriage certificate).

 

 

 

The application processing can take some time. If necessary, you can request a temporary visa for the waiting period. Results are usually communicated by mail or email.

Submitting documents to obtain a residence permit in Finland involves the following steps:

 

 

Determine the basis for obtaining a residence permit

 

Choose the appropriate category depending on your purpose of stay: work, study, family reunification, or other reasons. Each category has its own requirements and corresponding application forms.

 

 

Prepare the necessary documents.

 

 

Application submission

 

Online application: It is recommended to submit the application through the Enter Finland online service. This accelerates the process and allows you to track the status of your application.

 

Paper submission: If online submission is not possible, you can submit the application in paper form at a Finnish representation abroad or at a service point of the Finnish Immigration Service in Finland.

 

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Paying the Fee

 

Pay the appropriate fee for processing the application. The fee amount depends on the type of residence permit and the method of submission (online or in paper form). Exact amounts are listed on the Finnish Immigration Service website.

 

 

Identity Verification

 

After submitting the application, you must personally verify your identity:

 

Outside Finland: Visit the nearest Finnish representation (embassy or consulate) for identification.

 

In Finland: Visit a Finnish Immigration Service service point.

 

Identification is mandatory for the first residence permit.

 

 

Receiving the Decision

 

Once a decision is made, you will receive a notification via the Enter Finland service or by mail. If the decision is positive, you will be issued a residence permit card.

 

 

Note that requirements and procedures may change. It is recommended to always check the current information on the official Finnish Immigration Service website.

Citizens of the European Union and the European Economic Area, including Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, have special rights to stay and work in Finland.

 

 

Right to Stay

 

Short-term stay: EU and EEA citizens can stay in Finland without registration for up to 90 days during any 180-day period.

 

Long-term stay: If planning to stay for more than 90 days, you must register the right to reside with the Finnish Immigration Service. Registration must be completed within three months of entering the country.

 

 

Right to Work

 

Without restrictions: EU and EEA citizens have the right to work in Finland without needing a work permit or residence permit. They can start working immediately upon arrival in the country.

 

 

Registration of the Right to Reside

 

Procedure: Registration is done through the Enter Finland online service or at Finnish Immigration Service service points. To register, you will need:

 

- A valid passport or ID card.

 

- Proof of grounds for stay (e.g., employment contract, proof of studies, or financial means).

 

 

Personal Identification Number: After registration, you will receive a Finnish personal identification number, necessary for interactions with government services and employers.

 

 

Social Rights and Responsibilities

 

Social security: After registration, you have access to social services and benefits similar to those of Finnish citizens, provided certain requirements are met.

 

Taxation: Income earned in Finland is subject to taxation. It is recommended to register with the tax office to obtain a tax number and information on tax obligations.

 

 

Family members: Family members of EU and EEA citizens, who are not citizens of these countries, have the right to join you in Finland. They must apply for a residence card for family members of EU citizens.

 

 

Note that, despite simplified procedures for EU and EEA citizens, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the current information and requirements on the official Finnish Immigration Service website.

Citizens of countries outside the European Union or the European Economic Area must consider specific requirements for staying and working in Finland.

 

Visa and Short-term Stay

 

Visa: For short-term stays (up to 90 days during any 180-day period), citizens of most non-EU countries require a Schengen visa. The visa may be issued for tourism, business trips, or visiting relatives. Working on a Schengen visa is generally not allowed. Exceptions are countries with which the EU has visa waiver agreements.

 

Residence Permit: For stays in Finland longer than 90 days, a residence permit is required. Grounds:

 

Work: Employment contract with a Finnish employer.

 

Studies: Enrollment in an accredited Finnish educational institution.

 

Family ties: Reuniting with close relatives residing in Finland.

 

Business: Starting own business or investment.

 

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Work Permit

 

For employment, a work permit is required, which is usually processed together with a residence permit.

 

Types of Permits

 

Residence Permit for Employment: Issued based on an employment contract.

 

Residence Permit for Entrepreneurs: For individuals planning to conduct business in Finland. Conditions: The employer must comply with Finnish legislation, and working conditions must meet collective agreements.

 

Social Rights and Obligations

 

Social Security: After obtaining a residence permit, you are entitled to certain social services, although access may depend on the type of residence permit and the duration of stay.

 

Taxation: Income earned in Finland is subject to taxation. It is recommended to register with the tax office to obtain a tax number and information about tax obligations.

 

 

 

Family Members: Family Reunification: Family members can apply for a residence permit based on family ties. Requirements include proof of relationship and financial means.

 

Please note that requirements and procedures may change. It is recommended to always check the current information on the official website of the Finnish Immigration Service.

Application Deadlines

 

 

 

When to Apply: It is recommended to apply for an extension no earlier than three months before the current residence permit expires. If you are applying based on employment, it is optimal to do so two months before the current permit expires.

 

 

 

The Importance of Timely Submission: Submitting the application before the current permit expires ensures the retention of your right to stay and work in Finland under the previous conditions until a decision is made on the new application.

 

 

 

Ways to Submit an Application

 

 

 

Online via Enter Finland: Submitting an application through the online service Enter Finland is the preferred method. If you use, for example, bank credentials for identity verification, you may not need to visit a service point for identification.

 

 

 

In-Person Visit: If online submission is not possible or personal identification is required, it is necessary to schedule an appointment at a service point of the Finnish Immigration Service.

 

 

 

Required Documents

 

 

 

- Valid Passport: Provide the original and copies of pages with personal data and stamps.

 

 

 

- Photograph: An up-to-date photograph that meets the requirements of the Finnish police. You can obtain an individual photo identification code at a photo studio or photo booth.

 

 

 

- Proof of Stay Basis: Depending on the basis for extension (work, study, family circumstances), provide relevant documents such as an employment contract, certificate from an educational institution, or evidence of family ties.

 

 

 

- Proof of Financial Means: Confirm the availability of sufficient funds for living in Finland.

 

 

 

Fee Payment: Pay the appropriate fee for processing the application. The fee amount depends on the type of permit and the method of application (online or paper-based). Exact amounts are listed on the website of the Finnish Immigration Service.

 

 

 

Waiting for a Decision: Processing times depend on the type of permit and the completeness of the submitted documents. On average, processing takes from a few weeks to several months. You can track the status of your application through the service Enter Finland.

 

 

 

Receiving a Decision: Once a decision is made, you will receive a notification via the service Enter Finland or by mail. In case of a positive decision, a new residence permit card will be issued to you.

 

 

 

Important Points

 

 

 

Permanent Residence Permit: If you have lived in Finland long enough and meet other requirements, you can apply for a permanent residence permit or a long-term EU residence permit for third-country nationals.

 

 

 

Change of Grounds: If your circumstances have changed, you can apply for an extension on new grounds. Ensure that you meet the requirements for the new type of permit.

 

 

 

Please note that requirements and procedures may change. It is recommended to always check the current information on the official website of the Finnish Immigration Service.

To obtain a residence permit in Finland, it is necessary to acquire medical insurance that meets certain requirements. The insurance must cover medical care and medication expenses for the entire duration of your stay in the country.

 

 

 

Medical Insurance Requirements

 

 

 

Expenses Coverage:

 

- If your plans to stay in Finland are for less than two years, the insurance must cover medical expenses up to 120,000 euros.

 

- If you plan to stay in Finland for two years or more, the insurance must cover medication expenses up to 40,000 euros.

 

 

 

Validity Period:

 

- For stays of less than a year, the insurance must be valid for the entire period of stay.

 

- For stays longer than a year, the insurance must be valid for at least one year without interruptions.

 

 

 

Deductible: The maximum deductible amount should not exceed 300 euros.

 

 

 

Geographical Coverage: The insurance must be valid in Finland and should not have any restrictions on the duration of stay. Standard travel insurance valid only for short-term trips is not suitable.

 

 

 

Exceptions: If you possess a valid Kela card, European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), you are not required to obtain additional insurance. These cards must remain valid even after your move to Finland.

 

 

 

You can get the insurance in your home country or contact international insurance companies that offer suitable policies. Some of them are: Assurances Courtages et Services; Aon Student Insurance; International Student Insurance; Swisscare – ESI Finland plan; SIP Integral.

 

 

 

When applying for a residence permit, attach:

 

- An insurance certificate or a copy of the Kela card, EHIC, or GHIC.

 

- An insurance policy indicating your personal details, validity period, geographical coverage, insurance coverage, insurance amounts, and deductible amount (if applicable).

Obtaining Finnish citizenship is a process that requires meeting certain conditions and going through several stages.

 

Main requirements for obtaining citizenship:

 

Age: The applicant must be at least 18 years old.

 

Residency Period: From October 1, 2024, the general required period of residence in Finland is 8 years, with the last 2 years being continuous. In certain cases, this period may be reduced.

 

Reliable Identity Establishment: The applicant's identity must be reliably established.

 

Language Proficiency: It is necessary to demonstrate sufficient proficiency in Finnish, Swedish, or Finnish sign language.

 

Reliability: Absence of serious offenses and debts to the state.

 

Means of Subsistence: Availability of a stable and legitimate source of income.

 

Additional Information

 

Children: You can include children under 18 years old under your care in your application.

 

Dual Citizenship: Finland recognizes dual citizenship, so upon obtaining Finnish citizenship, you can retain your country's citizenship if its legislation permits.

 

Note that requirements and procedures may change. It is recommended to always check the current information on the official website of the Finnish Immigration Service.

Holders of temporary residence permits in Finland have the right to leave the country and return. However, several important aspects should be considered:

 

 

 

Validity of the Residence Permit

 

 

 

Validity Period: Ensure that your residence permit is valid at the time of your return to Finland. If the validity period expires during your stay abroad, you may face difficulties upon returning.

 

 

 

Travel within the Schengen Zone

 

 

 

Freedom of Movement: With a Finnish residence permit, you can freely travel within the Schengen Zone countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

 

 

 

Travel outside the Schengen Zone

 

 

 

Entry Requirements: When traveling to countries outside the Schengen Zone, familiarize yourself with their visa requirements. Having a Finnish residence permit does not always exempt you from needing a visa for other countries.

 

 

 

Return to Finland

 

 

 

Valid Residence Permit: To return to Finland, you must have a valid residence permit.

 

 

 

Passport: Your passport must be valid upon entry.

 

 

 

Extension of Residence Permit

 

 

 

Timely Application Submission: If your residence permit is about to expire, submit an application for extension before it ends. It is recommended to apply no earlier than three months before the expiration of the current permit.

 

 

 

Important Points

 

 

 

Long Absence: Prolonged stay outside Finland may affect your rights and ability to renew your residence permit. If you plan to be absent for more than six months, it is advisable to notify the Finnish Immigration Service.

 

 

 

Document Check: Before traveling, ensure all your documents are in order and meet the requirements for entry and exit from Finland.

 

 

 

Note that rules and requirements may change. It is advisable to always check the latest information on the official websites of the respective authorities before planning your trips.

If you have been denied a residence permit in Finland, it is important to act thoughtfully and promptly. Below are the steps to take in case of a denial:

 

 

 

Review the Decision and Appeal Instructions

 

 

 

Receiving the Decision: You will receive a written notification of the denial from the Finnish Immigration Service.

 

 

 

Appeal Instructions: The decision is accompanied by instructions containing information on the appeal process, deadlines, and necessary documents.

 

 

 

Evaluate the Possibility of Filing an Appeal

 

 

 

Appeal Deadlines: The appeal deadlines are specified in the instructions and generally are 30 days from receiving the decision.

 

 

 

Grounds for Appeal: Consider whether there is new evidence or arguments that might influence the review of the decision.

 

 

 

Prepare the Appeal

 

 

 

Drafting the Appeal: The appeal should be filed with the administrative court indicated in the instructions. It should detail the reasons why you disagree with the decision and provide relevant evidence.

 

 

 

Legal Assistance: It is recommended to seek the help of a qualified lawyer or attorney specializing in immigration law for preparing and filing the appeal.

 

 

 

Submitting the Appeal

 

 

 

Methods of Submission: The appeal can be submitted in person, by mail, or through electronic services if applicable.

 

 

 

Payment of Fees: Note that filing an appeal may involve court fees. Confirm the amount and payment procedure with the respective administrative court.

 

 

 

Review Timelines: The timelines for reviewing the appeal depend on the court's workload and the complexity of the case.

 

 

 

Possible Outcomes: The court may reject the appeal, change the decision, or return the case for reconsideration to the Immigration Service.

 

 

 

Alternative Actions

 

 

 

Submitting a New Application: If the appeal does not yield the desired result, you can submit a new residence permit application, addressing the reasons for the previous denial.

 

 

 

Voluntary Return: In the event of a final denial, consider the possibility of voluntary return to your home country. The Finnish Immigration Service provides support and benefits for voluntary return.

 

 

 

It is important to act according to established procedures and adhere to all specified deadlines. Seek professional legal advice to increase the chances of successfully appealing the decision.

During immigration procedures in Finland, there might be a need for translation services and document translation. Below are the key aspects to consider.

 

 

 

Document Translation

 

 

 

Translation Requirements: Finnish authorities may require that documents drafted in a foreign language be translated into Finnish or Swedish. The translation must be done by an authorized translator.

 

 

 

Legalization of Translations: If the translation was done outside Finland, the authorities might require its legalization. This confirms the authenticity of the translation and its compliance with the original.

 

 

 

Translation Services

 

 

 

Authorized Translators: The Finnish National Board of Education maintains a register of authorized translators. Contact information can be obtained through the Finnish Association of Translators and Interpreters.

 

 

 

Translation Agencies: There are specialized agencies that provide document translation services for migration purposes.

 

 

 

Interpretation Services

 

 

 

Necessity: If you do not have a sufficient command of Finnish or Swedish, an interpreter may be required during personal meetings with immigration authorities.

 

 

 

Organization: In some cases, such as when applying for asylum, the Finnish Immigration Service provides interpretation services for free. However, when applying for other types of permits, such as a residence permit or EU citizen registration, you must arrange and pay for interpretation services yourself.

 

 

 

Please note that requirements may change. It is recommended to always check the latest information on the official websites of the respective authorities before starting migration procedures.