Immigration Law at Finland
Finland has a well-structured and transparent immigration system governed by Finnish law and EU regulations. Here's an overview of immigration law in Finland:
Immigration Law in Finland: Key Points
1. Visa and Entry Requirements
Schengen Area Member: Finland follows Schengen visa policies.
Short stays (up to 90 days) for tourism/business may require a Schengen visa unless you're from a visa-exempt country.
For longer stays, you'll need a residence permit, not a visa.
2. Residence Permits
Finland offers various types of residence permits based on:
✅ Work
Must have a job offer or employment contract.
Common permits:
Specialist permit (for highly skilled workers)
Startup permit (for entrepreneurs)
Seasonal work permit
✅ Study
Granted for full-time higher education.
You must prove sufficient funds and a place to live.
✅ Family
For spouses, registered partners, children, or other close family of a Finnish citizen or residence permit holder.
✅ Asylum and International Protection
Refugees and asylum seekers are processed under Finnish immigration law and EU asylum rules.
Decisions made by the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).
3. Permanent Residence and Citizenship
Permanent residence typically requires 4 years of continuous legal stay.
Finnish citizenship can be applied for after:
5 years of continuous residence (or 4 years with strong integration),
Sufficient language skills (Finnish or Swedish),
Clean legal record,
Ability to support yourself.
4. EU/EEA Citizens
Can enter and live in Finland without a visa.
Must register right of residence if staying over 90 days.
5. Deportation and Appeals
Migri can deny or cancel residence permits for legal violations or false information.
Decisions can be appealed to the Administrative Court.
6. Integration Support
Finland offers integration programs: language training, job support, and civic education for newcomers.
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