What are the conditions for obtaining a residence permit in Finland for foreigners?

Finland's popularity among migrants

Finland is becoming increasingly popular among people from different countries who want to start a new life in Finland. This is due to its well-developed economy, high standard of living and social protection, which makes Finland particularly attractive for migrants. According to 2021 data, the country is confidently ranked fourth in Legatum's Global Prosperity Index, which confirms its status as one of the most prosperous countries in Europe.

Statistics on foreigners

By the end of 2021, more than 440,000 foreigners were living in Finland, which is about 8.3% of the total population. The most significant groups of migrants are citizens of Estonia, Russia and Iraq. The largest number of foreigners is registered in the Uusimaa region, as large cities such as Helsinki, Espoo and Vantaa are located there, offering many jobs. It should also be noted that the Åland Islands have long been home to Swedes, creating an interesting demographic picture.

Finnish visa conditions

Speaking of visa conditions, Finland, which is a member of the European Union and a member of the Schengen area, sets special rules for entry into its country. Citizens of such countries as Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan are required to obtain a Schengen visa issued either by Finland itself or by another member state of the agreement. It is important to remember that the first visa must be used to arrive exactly in the country that issued it, in accordance with Schengen rules. Ignoring these requirements may result in the denial of a visa in the future.

Tightening of visa conditions

In the current geopolitical situation, Finland has tightened visa conditions for Russian citizens. Now they face difficulties when trying to enter the country for tourist purposes on a Schengen visa, and the restrictions also affect transit migration to other Schengen states. A visa requires a valid reason for entry, such as:

• family visits
• work
• studies
• health care needs

Property owners may apply if their purpose is to make repairs or maintenance to their property.

Reasons for obtaining a residence permit

There are many grounds for obtaining a residence permit, such as owning real estate, employment or running a business. Owners of real estate may be eligible for a residence permit, which provides an opportunity to legalize their position in the country. Employers are also able to hire foreign employees, which opens up additional ways for professionals who have found work in Finland to obtain a residence permit.

Programs for startups

In addition, startup programs offer various residency opportunities, which helps attract foreign entrepreneurs with innovative ideas and promotes local business development.

The process of obtaining a residence permit

The process of obtaining a residence permit involves collecting the necessary documents and submitting them to the relevant authorities. Each candidate is required to prepare a package of documents, which includes supporting evidence, grounds for obtaining a visa and other important papers. The procedure may vary depending on the type of visa and the grounds on which it is requested.

Refusals to approve applications

It is important to realize that not all applications for a residence permit can be approved. There are various reasons for rejection, including incomplete documents or failure to meet the established criteria. Therefore, it is recommended to study all requirements before submitting an application.

Benefits of a residence permit in Finland

The cost of a residence permit can vary depending on the type of visa and the circumstances for which it is requested. Many potential migrants are interested in the benefits of a residence permit in Finland. The main benefits include:

• legal residence
• the right to work in the country
• access to social services
• future citizenship prospects

Conclusion

Thus, Finland continues to attract more and more foreigners who see the country as a new homeland, which confirms its attractiveness for both short-term travel and long-term residence. The country offers numerous opportunities for integration and comfortable living, making it one of the most desirable places to move to.

Basic information on obtaining a Finnish Schengen visa

As of September 1, 2022, the website of the visa center has important information: the Finnish Schengen visa is available for processing only in four Russian cities - Moscow, St. Petersburg, Murmansk and Petrozavodsk. Citizens who have a residence permit in any country of the European Union can cross the borders of Finland without a visa.

Visa categories for entry to Finland

There are several visa categories available to them, which authorize a stay on Finnish territory:

• Single entry visas
• Double entry visas
• Multivisas
• Transit visas
• Return visas (issued by the Finnish police)

Category C visas

Most often, tourists opt for C-category visas. These visas include both single-entry visas, which are valid for no more than three months, and multi-entry visas, which are valid for six months or a year. A maximum of 90 days of stay in the country is allowed on such visas in six months.

For those with a good visa history, visas for up to three years can be issued, but at the moment Russians rarely receive multi-visas. Single-entry visas are usually issued with specific travel dates in mind.

Documents for visa application

To obtain a visa for travel to Finland, you need to prepare a standard package of documents. The full list of documents can be found on the official websites of Finnish embassies and consulates. Forms for filling in are also available on these resources.

Finnish consulates operate in various countries, including Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan, but there is no consulate in Belarus. Citizens of Belarus have to apply for visas either to the Estonian consulate or to the Finnish consulate in Moscow.

Helsinki-Vantaa Airport

Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is the leading air port in Finland, surpassing the number of passengers served and the size of other airports in the country. The visa application process usually takes approximately two weeks, but the timeframe may vary depending on where the application is submitted.

Recently, the processing time for Russian citizens has lengthened: now the procedure takes 15 days or more, and the requirements for documents have become more stringent.

Changes in the visa regime

On September 12, 2022, the European Commission decided to suspend the agreement that simplified the visa regime for Russian citizens. As a consequence, the visa fee increased to€80for all categories of applicants, and for children aged 6 to 11 years there is a reduced tariff of€40.

Fees and filing procedure

In addition to the visa fee, there is a service charge for each application submitted of€33. This fee is not required for children under six years of age. A personal visit to the visa application center is not mandatory to submit documents, unless the applicant has not yet undergone the fingerprinting procedure: in such situations they must be provided.

Unique visa opportunity

The possibility to use the “mobile biometrics” service opens up a unique way for you to obtain a visa. An employee of the visa center can come to your home to take biometric data. At the same time you can prepare all the necessary documents for visa application.

It is worth emphasizing that if you wish, you can significantly reduce the time of obtaining a visa. An express visa can be issued in just three days, however, this option is available exclusively for citizens of Belarus and Ukraine, and its cost is as follows€70.

Long-term visa

If you plan to stay in Finland for more than90 daysfor six months, you will need to obtain a long-term visa. Reasons for this can be:

• Study
• Work
• Business management
• Family reunification

Unlike a tourist visa, you will need to be present in person to apply for a long-term visa. All documents must be filled out in Finnish, Swedish or English. If the applications are in Russian, they will need to be translated and notarized. Two passport-size photographs must be attached to the application.

A full list of required documents, processing times and fees can be found on specialized websites. For more detailed information on investment, immigration and real estate in Finland, it is worth subscribing to the relevant Telegram channel.

Residence permit in Finland

The conditions for obtaining a residence permit in Finland are regulated by the Aliens Act. Information on the current regulations can be found on the official website of the Finnish Migration Service (English version).

One of Helsinki's famous streets is the historic Aleksanterinkatu Alley, also known as Alexander Street.

Purchase of real estate and its impact on residence permit

Now about the tax status for property owners: buying real estate in Finland, regardless of its value, does not automatically entitle you to a residence permit. However, if you are applying for a residence permit for other reasons, such as work or business, having real estate may be a positive factor for your application.

It's important to consider that withJanuary 1, 2020Foreign nationals who are not from the European Union or the European Economic Area (EEA) require permission from the Finnish Ministry of Defense to purchase real estate. Full information on this issue is available on the Ministry's website.

Offer to buy real estate

If you are interested in the process of buying real estate in Finland, right now there is a great offer - a house for sale for a980,000 €in the Puumala district. The area of this facility is240 m²It has six rooms, including four bedrooms and two bathrooms.

You can pay for the purchase both in rubles and in cryptocurrency. This is a modern and comfortable house, which is located just in the50 kmfrom the Russian border and in80 kmfrom Lappeenranta Airport, which has regular flights to Europe.

Plot area1 hectareLocated on the shores of picturesque Lake Saimaa, in a secluded location with no neighbors. This house was lovingly built for a family and was originally used exclusively for personal use.

Apartment in Imatra

In the Finnish city of Imatra is for sale one bedroom apartment, which has an area of 57 square meters. The apartment is located on the second level of a three-storey building, which was erected in 1973.

The interior space includes:

• a relaxation area,
• kitchen,
• bedroom,
• bathroom
• balcony.

This decoration creates a comfortable living environment. The price of this dwelling is9,708 euroswith the possibility of installments from the management company in the amount of5,292 euroswith monthly installments.

Studio apartment in Pori

In another region of Finland, in the village of Pori, a studio apartment is offered. The area of this object is28 square meters, and it is on the second floor of a six-story building built in 1976, where an elevator is available.

Inside the apartment there are:

• living room,
• a separate room for the kitchen,
• bathroom
• a small walk-in closet.

This property is currently rented out. It's appraised at26,000 eurosand the monthly utility bills are140.25 euros.

Four-room apartment in Kayani

There is also a four-room apartment for sale in Kayani, located on the fourth floor. The total area is73.5 square meters.

The back yard has access to a ski slope, which is especially appealing to outdoor enthusiasts. This home was built in1953and equipped with central heating.

The annual cost of the apartment is14,900 eurosand monthly utility costs are equal to308.70 euros.

Townhouse in Kuwola

The town of Kuwola also offers an interesting option - a townhouse with an area of59 square meters. This two bedroom dwelling is located on the first floor and was built in thein 1976.

Inside it are:

• living room,
• kitchen,
• bedroom,
• bathroom
• sauna,
• terrace.

The price of this property is19,800 eurosHowever, additional utility costs should be kept in mind.

One bedroom townhouse in Harja Valta

Also worth considering is a one-bedroom townhouse in Harja Walta, which was built in thein 1977. This apartment occupies43 square meters, is located on the first floor and comprises:

• a living room,
• kitchen,
• a sleeping alcove,
• terrace.

You will have to pay for the purchase of such a dwelling24,932.34 euros. In addition, it is possible to execute installments from the management company.

Townhouse in Urjal

Equally attractive is the townhouse in Urjal, which is ideal for renting out. The area of this dwelling is27 square meters, it includes a kitchen area and living space located on its own plot with oil heating. The property was built in1964.and its price is18,960 euros.

Remote transaction processing

All of the above offers allow buyers to execute the transaction remotely, which makes it possible to purchase housing without the need to be physically present. All transactions can be carried out by power of attorney, which makes the process as convenient and accessible as possible for interested buyers.

Real estate in Finland: interesting offers

Real estate in Finland is an attractive market with many interesting offers. Let's take a look at some properties that stand out from the rest with their unique characteristics and price policy.

A house in Pori

The first property that deserves attention is a house in the town of Pori, available for a18,000 €This house has a total area of90 square metersIncludes three rooms and two bedrooms.Possibility to conduct the transaction remotelymakes it particularly convenient for those who cannot be on site. For example, this house is located on its own lot, but requires certain renovations. For heating purposes, the following are usedfirewood and oilThere is a heat pump, which contributes to the comfort of the room. The water supply is provided by the municipal network. A special feature is the presence of a sauna, also powered by wood.

Apartment in Nilsia

The next interesting offer is an apartment in Nilsia, the price of which is16,000 €The area of this apartment is55 square metersIt is located on the first floor with its own balcony. The building was built in1975Since then, work has been carried out to replace pipes, windows and renovate the facade. Utility costs are as follows247,50 € per month.

A house in Perho

Note also the home that is for sale in Perho for a19,500 €.

Real estate in Finland

In Finland, there is a wide selection of attractive real estate available for purchase. For example, in Savonlinna, a two-room apartment with an area of 46 square meters is on the market for just 10,000 euros. The apartment is located on the second floor and was built in 1956. Convenient transportation access will help you quickly reach the city center, and the bus stop is right across the street. Additionally, you can complete the transaction remotely using a power of attorney, which significantly simplifies the process of acquiring property.

Apartments in Forssa

A one-bedroom apartment is also available for sale in Forss for 33,000 euros, with an area of 38 square meters. This residence is located on the second floor of a building constructed in 1974. The interior space includes a cozy living room, kitchen, and bathroom. The monthly utility costs are 152 euros, and the water fee will be determined by the meter.

Spacious housing in Kemi

If you're interested in a more spacious option, a two-room apartment is available in Kemi for 26,000 euros with a total area of 65 square meters. This apartment is located on the first floor and was built in 1981. It includes:

• living room
• kitchen
• bedroom
• bathroom
• balcony

The utility bills amount to 248.54 euros per month, and the water fee is 20 euros.

House in Vantaa

In Vantaa, there is an opportunity to purchase a house for 414,000 euros, with an area of 69 square meters. For more detailed information, it is recommended to contact representatives of Habita International Estates Ltd.

Apartment in Varkaus

In the center of Varkaus, a one-bedroom apartment with a total area of 58 square meters is for sale at a price of 18,500 euros. This property is located on the third floor of a solid stone building built in 1954. The apartment has been recently renovated, including modern tiles in the kitchen and lacquered floors.

Apartments in Lahti

Additionally, a 28 square meter apartment is available in Lahti for 87,000 euros. Habita representatives can also be contacted for more information.

Work and residence permit

Don't forgetIf you plan to work in Finland, you will need to obtain a residence permit through employment. You must first find a suitable job before applying for a visa. The Ministry of Labor carefully checks every job vacancy and decides whether there are any available jobs before issuing a permit. However, the difficulty of finding a job should not be underestimated.

Conclusion

The Finnish real estate and job market offers many opportunities, thanks to which everyone can find something suitable for themselves.Don't miss the chance to own real estate in Finlandand work legally in the country. Obtaining a residence permit is especially important for those who plan to stay in Finland for an extended period. Approach the process carefully, and you will succeed!

Difficulties in obtaining a residence permit for specialists

Masters from non-European Union countries often face significant difficulties when applying for a residence permit in Finland, especially if there are specialists with similar qualifications in the European labor market. To successfully integrate into the Finnish labor system, it is crucial to master the Finnish language, and a corresponding level of English will also be a great advantage. Additionally, candidates are required to have the relevant skills and education in a profession that is in demand in the country.

In this regard, it is useful to familiarize yourself with recommendations for job searching in Finland, possible professions, and the average salary levels.

Key points for obtaining a work permit

One of the main stages in obtaining a work permit is that Finnish authorities typically issue permits strictly for the specific professions listed in the submitted documents. If there is a need to move to a different field, a new application for a change of residence permit must be submitted.

Rules for Entrepreneurs

There are special requirements for entrepreneurs. The primary requirement is the necessity of registering a business in Finland. Individual entrepreneurs can only legally operate if they have the appropriate residence permit.

When starting a new business rather than buying an existing one, the following steps need to be taken:

• Provide a detailed business plan.
• Indicate the potential for income and the possibility of paying a salary to the founder.
• Demonstrate financial stability and housing availability, confirmed by a rental agreement or property documents.

It is important to consider that entrepreneurial activity implies a necessityphysical presenceIn Finland, for example, renting housing or remote work cannot serve as a basis for obtaining a business residence permit.

Extension of residence permit

When renewing a residence permit issued on the basis of entrepreneurial activity, it will be necessary to provide documentation confirming the active conduct of business, as well as financial statements regarding its status.

Program for startups

Since 2017, there has been a special program for new initiatives and startups that allows individuals to obtain a residence permit in Finland. If business ideas can be...financially justifiedThe immigration authorities grant a permit for two years.

During this period, the foreign entrepreneur must:

• Move to Finland.
• Register your business.
• Start its active development.

If, at the end of this period, the business does not show stable financial results, certain financial guarantees of success will be required to extend the residence permit.

This program does not have strict restrictions on types of activities, and many startups require minimal investment. However, entrepreneurs who take advantage of this opportunity may face some difficulties, such as when opening a bank account.

Such problems can delay the business launch process by six months or even longer.

Planning a financial cushion

In the process of creating a financial cushion, it is necessary to consider many aspects. Since June 1, 2022, Finnish government authorities have begun using an expedited approach to processing residence permit applications through a special fast-track program. This program is aimed at certain categories of people, including highly skilled professionals, budding entrepreneurs, employees of international companies being transferred to work in Finnish offices, as well as individuals who wish to obtain a blue card – which combines a work permit and residence permit in EU countries – and family members of foreign citizens from the specified groups.

Application process

To apply, you need to use the online resource Enter Finland. Employers who hire highly skilled workers and those applying for a blue card, as well as organizations wishing to transfer their employees to Finland, must fill out a separate application format available on this platform. For detailed step-by-step information about the fast-track service process, it is recommended to study the special guide to avoid mistakes.

Immigration opportunities

As for immigration opportunities in Finland, a residence permit is offered for beginner entrepreneurs, which takes only three months to process and costs from2,500 eurosAdditionally, those who want to start their own business in the country can obtain a residence permit in seven months at a cost starting from3,500 eurosThere are also other grounds for obtaining a residence permit.

• Students studying at accredited Finnish educational institutions;
• Scientific workers;
• Professional athletes;
• Participants of the au pair program aimed at cultural exchange among young people.

It is important to note that regular educational courses do not qualify a person for obtaining a residence permit.

Grants and education

It's interesting that there are stories of people who received grants and went to study and live in Finland without any expenses.

Long-term residence

The rights for long-term residence can be obtained by:

• Descendants of Finnish citizens;
• Foreigners wishing to reunite with their family (if one of the spouses is already legally residing in Finland);
• Minor children (under eighteen years old);
• Temporary migrants, such as refugees.

Documents for residence permit

When applying for a residence permit, it is necessary to gather a number of important documents. The list includes:

• Application for a residence permit, which is recommended to be submitted online;
• Valid foreign passport(don't forget to attach a photocopy), the validity of which must exceed the period for which the residence permit is requested;
• Two standard size photographs 47×36 mmmade no later than six months before the application is submitted, in both black and white and color versions;
• Document confirming the basis for obtaining a residence permitFor example, a certificate of enrollment in an educational institution, a work contract, or an extract from the commercial register for registered companies.

Each type of residence permit requires its own supporting document.

The need to confirm financial viability

In some cases, to confirm your financial stability, you will need to provide a number of documents, among which a bank statement may be included. It is also necessary to provide proof of payment of the consular fee, which may vary depending on the reason for applying for a residence permit (RP). Depending on the visa category, additional documents may be required, so it is better to prepare them in advance.

The charm of the ancient city of Porvoo

Porvoo is a picturesque ancient town located just 50 kilometers from the capital of Finland, Helsinki, and its charm attracts many travelers. The process of obtaining the first residence permit requires a personal visit to Finnish consulates outside the country. For Russians, there are several options for submitting an application:

• Embassy of Finland in Moscow
• consulates in St. Petersburg, Petrozavodsk, and Murmansk

Processing times for applications

The processing time for applications can vary significantly — it usually ranges from one week to 11 months, depending on the grounds on which the application is submitted. In some situations, it is possible to submit documents on the territory of Finland if the applicant has a valid tourist visa.

Additional information about permissions

Additional information about residence permits can be found in English, which makes it easier for foreign citizens. The initial residence permit is usually issued for a period of up to one year and can also be granted depending on the duration of studies or employment. In special cases, the permit may be issued for a period of up to four years, for example, if the applicant was previously a citizen of Finland.

Extension of residence permit

As for the possibility of extending a residence permit, it can be renewed for a period of no more than four years. Applications for extension should be submitted exclusively to the local offices of the migration service located in Finland. Foreigners who wish to obtain permanent residence (PR) can apply after four years of continuous residence in the country, provided that they have met all the requirements related to the residence permit and have been in Finland for more than six months in the final year. Having five years of legal residence opens the door to obtaining Finnish citizenship.

The cost of obtaining a residence permit

The cost of obtaining a residence permit depends on many factors, including the amount of consular fees. Below is a table with approximate rates for different types of residence permits.

Prices for services:

• Primary residence permitexcluding special cases:
  • paper application - €520
  • electronic - 470 €
• Residence permit for work reasons:
  • paper application - €740
  • electronic - 490 €
• For seasonal workers:
  • for 3-6 months: paper - €480, electronic - €380
  • for 6-9 months: paper - €740, electronic - €490
• For entrepreneurs:
  • startup and other forms of business: paper - €480, electronic - €690
  • For other entrepreneurs: paper version - €350, electronic version - €490
• For students:
  • paper - 450 €
  • electronic - 350 €
• For minors:
  • paper - 270 €
  • electronic - 240 €

A complete list of services and the corresponding consular fees can be found on the embassy or consulate's website. It is important to remember that if the application for a residence permit is denied, the consular fee paid is non-refundable.

Payment of visa and residence permit fees

Payment of fees related to the processing of visa and residence permit applications can be made at the embassy in Moscow or at the consulate general in St. Petersburg after submitting the relevant documents.

Possible payment methods include cash payment in rubles at the current bank exchange rate, using the platform, or payment through the consulates, embassies, and visa centers of Finland.

In Russia, there are a significant number of legal companies that offer assistance in obtaining a residence permit in Finland. The minimum cost of services from such firms starts at approximately500 eurosfor one person. However, it is important to understand that the final decision on granting a residence permit is made solely by Finland and its immigration service.

This means that no legal organization can guarantee a positive outcome for applications, but they can assist in preparing all the necessary documents and correctly filling out the forms.

Reasons for refusal to issue a residence permit

The refusal to issue a residence permit can be caused by a variety of different circumstances. According to official data from the Finnish Immigration Service, nearly74 thousandrequest for the issuance of a residence permit.

As a result of this66,078A person received such permissions, while...5 148Applicants faced rejection.

The most common reasons for a negative decision are:

• errors in document formatting;
• lack of necessary documents;
• insufficiency of translations;

Other factors may include:

• providing false data or documentation;
• Violation of laws both in Finland and in other Schengen Agreement countries.

For example, if the applicant has already been denied a residence permit in another Schengen country, this may significantly reduce their chances of success with the Finnish immigration service.

Financial support and employment

Moreover, the lack of necessary financial support, such as insufficient income, can also affect the desired outcome.

Unreliable sources of employment, the presence of unpaid tax debts, and other obligations can also be grounds for denial.

Incomplete responses to additional requests from immigration authorities, as well as the Ministry of Labor and other agencies, can create further complications for a positive visa decision.

Specific cases where the work of foreign specialists is not in demand in the designated field can also play a negative role. The unprofitability of a business or the lack of a real need to be in Finland are also considered when making a decision.

Appeal against the refusal to obtain a residence permit

If your application for a residence permit has been denied, you have the option to appeal this decision in an administrative court.

If the appeal is successful, the fee is not charged. However, if the decision remains negative, it is necessary to carefully analyze the reasons for the refusal and the identified shortcomings.

If the decision was made based on incorrect information or included serious flaws, a petition for appeal can be quite effective.

Usually, the consideration of an appeal takes fromsix months to a yearIn some situations, it may be more sensible to submit a new application, addressing all identified shortcomings, in order to increase the likelihood of a positive outcome.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that the process of obtaining a residence permit in Finland presents numerous opportunities for foreign citizens seeking to start a new life in this prosperous country. Despite the growing complexities related to the visa regime and increasing documentation requirements, investments in real estate, employment, and entrepreneurial activities remain the most promising avenues for legalizing one's stay in the country.

Finland attracts not only with its high standard of living and stable economy but also with its cultural diversity and opportunities for personal and professional growth. As one of the most prosperous countries in the world, it offers a wide range of services and resources to support migrants, making it an appealing place to live and work.

Recommendations for obtaining a residence permit

Considering all the factors mentioned, I strongly recommend that those contemplating a move to Finland pay attention to the following aspects:

• Carefully explore the available options for obtaining a residence permit.
• Gather all the necessary documents.
• Follow the established procedures.

It's important to understand thatthorough preparationandcompliance with all rulessignificantly increase the chances of successfully obtaining a visa and comfortably living in this amazing country.

Prospects for life in Finland

So, upon arriving in Finland, you discover not only a new culture and unique nature but also a multitude of new opportunities that will allow you to grow and realize your dreams. Your new generation and quality of life await you in this beautiful northern land!