FINLAND RESIDENCY

A residence permit is required if you intend to stay in Finland for over three months. Nationals of the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland, do not require a residency permit to visit Finland. Non-Europeans must obtain work and residency permits. There are several Finnish visa types depending on the work grade and status. Highly trained professionals with employment offers in Finland can apply for a specialist permit. For startup entrepreneurs, a two-step process begins with a company plan evaluation and leads to a startup permit, which qualifies for personal work and residence permit application.

How do you apply for a residence permit?

• A person can apply for a residence permit in Finland if they have a job, a study place (university/college), or a family member in Finland. 
• You must apply for a residence permit and wait for its approval before moving to Finland.
• Fill out the application for a residency permit carefully. Check the appendices for accuracy.
• You can track the processing’s progress online. You may be requested for additional information or invited to an interview.
• You will be officially notified if your visa request has been accepted.