Guide to Residency in Finland

Obtaining a residency visa in Finland is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Finland gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Check your eligibility for residency
  • Visit the Finnish Immigration Service website at Migri.fi to determine the type of residence permit you should apply for based on your situation (work, study, family ties, etc.).
  • Read through the requirements for the specific residence permit category to ensure you meet all the criteria.
• Gather necessary documents
  • Prepare your passport and make sure it is valid for the entire duration of your stay.
  • Collect any additional documents required for your specific residence permit application, such as employment contracts, study certificates, or proof of family ties.
  • Obtain comprehensive health insurance coverage for your stay in Finland.
• Apply for a residence permit
  • Complete the residence permit application online through the Enter Finland service at Enter Finland.
  • Pay the application fee, which varies depending on the permit type and can be paid online during the application process.
  • Book an appointment at the nearest Finnish embassy or consulate, or at a service point in Finland, to verify your identity and present the original documents.
• Attend your appointment
  • Go to the appointment you booked with all the required original documents and your passport.
  • Have your biometric identifiers taken, which include fingerprints and a photograph.
• Wait for a decision
  • Monitor the status of your application online through the Enter Finland portal.
  • Be prepared to provide additional information or documents if requested by the Finnish Immigration Service.
• Register with the local authorities upon arrival
  • Once you receive a positive decision and arrive in Finland, make an appointment with the local Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV) at DVV.fi.
  • Register your place of residence and obtain a Finnish personal identity code (henkilötunnus).
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the Finnish Tax Administration's website at Vero.fi to learn about the tax number and tax card application process.
  • Go to a local tax office to apply for a tax number and tax card in person.
  • Provide your Finnish personal identity code and employment details to the tax office.
• Open a bank account
  • Choose a bank in Finland and inquire about the requirements for opening an account as a foreign resident.
  • Bring your passport, residence permit card, and Finnish personal identity code to the bank appointment.
  • Some banks may require proof of address or employment, so have these documents ready as well.
• Enroll in the Finnish social security system (Kela)
  • Check your eligibility for Kela benefits at Kela.fi.
  • Fill out the appropriate application forms for social security coverage.
  • Submit the application along with the required documents, such as your residence permit and proof of moving to Finland permanently.

Please note that the process and requirements for obtaining residency status in Finland can change, so it is important to consult the official Finnish Immigration Service website for the most up-to-date information.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Finland?

"In order to visit Finland, foreign nationals must obtain a visa from a Finnish embassy or consulate prior to their arrival. The type of visa required depends on the purpose of the visit, such as tourism, business, study, or work. Applicants must provide a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and supporting documents such as proof of financial means, a letter of invitation, and a valid travel insurance policy. In order to apply for residency in Finland, foreign nationals must first obtain a residence permit. The type of residence permit required depends on the purpose of the stay, such as work, study, family reunification, or entrepreneurship. Applicants must provide a valid passport, a completed residence permit application form, and supporting documents such as proof of financial means, a valid travel insurance policy, and a valid employment contract or proof of studies," commented one member living in Finland.