Advantages of residence permits in Finland and the grounds for obtaining them

Read in the article: what advantages are there for holders of a residence permit under the visa regime?

The advantages of obtaining a residence permit include the ability to study, get married, work, run a business, purchase real estate, or for retirees. The residence permit in Finland is popular among Russians, especially due to its convenient geographical location bordering Russia. The high level of culture, quality education, and healthcare in Finland also attract migrants.

Features of Finland's visa regime

Finland is the only country that has an agreement with both the European Union and the Schengen Area. Entry into the country is possible with a Schengen visa. Finnish politicians express a desire to abolish the visa regime for residents of St. Petersburg and possibly for all Russians, but for now, this is just a statement. A tourist visa is usually valid for six months to a year, but it is also possible to obtain a one-year multiple-entry visa allowing a stay in the country for up to 180 days.

Residence permit in Finland

Obtaining a residence permit in Finland requires a stay in Finland for more than three months and may be due to a work visa. may be granted on the basis of a work visa, student visa, family residence permit and other reasons. grounds. A temporary residence permit has an "A" or "B" status, which determines how long a foreigner stays in Finland. of the foreigner's stay in Finland.

Having a residence permit in Finland is an advantage for foreigners.

One of the most common types of residence permits (RP) in Finland is the RP with the letter "B". This is a temporary residence permit that allows you to stay in the country for one year, with the possibility of extending it for another year.

Change of grounds for staying in the country

If a foreigner with a temporary residence permit in Finland has a change in circumstances (for example, getting married), they can apply for a continuous residence permit.

Residence permits with "A" and "B" statuses for foreign workers

Foreign workers usually receive a residence permit with status "B". Status "A" grants the right to reside for a period of 4 years. Holders of status "A" have all the rights and privileges of Finnish citizens, except for visa-free entry to certain countries and the right to vote in elections. Status "A" can also be obtained after a previous residence permit with status "B", for example, upon signing a permanent employment contract.

Advantages of "A" status holders

The owner of status "A" has the right to receive unemployment benefits, as well as to send children to kindergarten or school, just like Finns do.

The possibility of obtaining "A" status and permanent residency

The basis for obtaining A status may change, for example, if a foreigner first resided in Finland for work and then married a Finnish citizen. in Finland for work and then married a Finnish citizen. After that, the residence permit can be extended for a further for a further 4 years or permanent residence (P status) can be granted. However, in order to do so, you must pass a Finnish or Swedish language test.

Reasons and process for obtaining a residence permit in Finland

The grounds for obtaining a residence permit and the process of its consideration and appeal in Finland are regulated by the "Aliens Act," which was adopted on May 1, 2004. According to this law, a foreign citizen can obtain a residence permit if they plan to stay in the country for more than three months. The processing time for a residence permit application can vary and, in some cases, may take up to 11 months.

Reasons for obtaining a residence permit in Finland

A residence permit in Finland can be granted on the following grounds: study and marriage. A residence permit is granted for for the period of study or for one year. A foreign spouse can enter Finland on a regular visa and apply for a residence permit at the Migration Board. Migration Service with a marriage certificate and income certificate, although in some cases the Finnish spouse may do so. can be done by the Finnish spouse.

Foreign worker and work permit in Finland

A foreign worker wishing to work in Finland must have a specific job, position, and other information that they can provide in their application for a work permit. Finland primarily offers jobs to its citizens before opening vacancies to foreigners. Job openings are regularly published on the website of the Finnish Ministry of Labor. The first work permit is issued for one year but can be extended according to the contract. It is important to note that foreign workers often need to have knowledge of the Finnish language for employment.

Obtaining residence permits for business purposes

To obtain a residence permit in Finland for business purposes, you need to either open your own company in the country or obtain a license for individual entrepreneurship. Finland has a well-developed small and medium-sized business sector, with around 260,000 companies operating. Most of these are owned by local entrepreneurs, but there are also representatives from Russia and the CIS. The residence permit for business purposes is issued for one year, and after six months of staying in the country, it can be extended for a period of one to four years. Indicating the ownership of real estate when applying can be an additional advantage.

Real estate purchase and Schengen multivisa

Buying real estate in Finland is currently not a basis for obtaining a residence permit. residence permits. However, owning real estate can be indicated as an additional advantage when applying. If a foreign national owns real estate in Finland, he or she can obtain an annual or two-year Schengen multivisa.

Emigration of retirees to Finland and opportunities

Emigration to Finland does not offer any special benefits for pensioners, except for the opportunity to live in a country with a developed healthcare system, favorable ecology, and beautiful nature. For pensioners, moving to Finland can be relatively easy if they have close relatives or property in the country.

Increase in the number of Russian citizens who have obtained residence permits in Finland

In 2018, there was an increase in the number of Russian citizens who obtained residence permits and citizenship in Finland, despite a decrease in the total number of documents issued. citizenship in Finland, despite a decrease in the total number of documents issued. According to the Finnish Migration Service Finnish Migration Service, the number of residence permit applications from Russians decreased by 13% to 8,700, but the number of people, who received permission to stay in the country increased by 12% to 7,900 people (+12%).

Foreign citizens who have obtained a residence permit in Finland

In addition to Russians, the list of foreign nationals granted permission to reside in Finland also includes Chinese, Indians, Vietnamese, and Iraqis.

Increase in denials to citizens of the Russian Federation

The rejection rate for citizens of the Russian Federation in obtaining residence permits has increased from 5% to 7%.+2%).

Purposes of obtaining a residence permit and student groups

Among those who were granted residence permits, 42% are family immigrants, 29% immigrated for work, and 28% came for education.

Students from Russia make up the second largest group of students, surpassing international students from outside the European Union.

Pandemic and changes in the process of obtaining a residence permit

The coronavirus pandemic has significantly affected the process of obtaining residence permits not only in Finland but also in many other countries. Applications for visas and residence permits at Finland's foreign representations were temporarily suspended.

However, foreigners still have the opportunity to apply for a residence permit or registration of the right of residence through the Migration Board's online service "Enter Finland".

It is worth noting that the service fee can be paid remotely. However, the application will only be processed after the foreigner appears in person at the Finnish representation or at a service point of the Migration Service to confirm their identity.

Due to the pandemic, the visiting dates have been extended until April 30, 2021.

Information about the work of the Finnish representation

Additional information about the work of the Finnish representation that processes applicants' documents in a specific country can be found on the "Finland Abroad" portal.

On-site processing of documents

If a foreign citizen is already in Finland and wishes to submit documents on-site, they can use the online portal Enter Finland. However, it is necessary to make an appointment at the nearest Immigration Service office beforehand. It is also possible to submit an application by regular or electronic mail, although this is a less commonly used option.

Necessary documents for obtaining a residence permit

To apply for residence permits in Finland, the following documents will be required:

• Valid foreign passport and its copies
• Application for residence permit
• Two 47x36 mm photographs
• Document confirming the purpose of the visit
• Receipt for the payment of the consular fee

The required documents may vary depending on the type of residence permit being applied for. For example, a work visa will require a labor contract, while a student visa will need a certificate of enrollment in a study program. Documents confirming business registration, marriage, or housing in Finland may also be required. Some applicants may need to provide a bank statement, while others may need a certificate of no debts and legal issues.

Permanent residency application

In order to obtain permanent residence in Finland, you must have lived in Finland for 4 years after the first residence permit has been issued. Permanent residence does not have an expiration date, but can be If a person leaves Finland and lives abroad for two continuous years, it can be revoked.

Finnish citizenship

There is a repatriation program for obtaining Finnish citizenship, which allows citizens of other countries with Finnish ancestry to acquire a Finnish passport. To do this, the applicant must prove their nationality and pass a language proficiency exam. The processing of the application can take up to a year or longer. Finnish citizenship can also be obtained by birth or through marriage to a Finnish citizen, as well as through the foster family program or notification of citizenship acquisition.

Rejections

If a foreigner is in Finland and receives a refusal from the Migration Service for a residence permit, they must either leave the country (if already there) within 30 days or appeal the decision. In the case of an appeal, the applicant may remain in Finland until the appeal is reviewed. The right to appeal is granted to a foreigner who applied for a residence permit from abroad, but in this case, the appeal will also be processed outside of Finland. It is important to note that during the entry ban, the foreigner is not allowed to visit Finland or other Schengen countries.

Appeal against a decision

By nature, the country is meticulous, and the decision to issue a residence permit is always accompanied by instructions for appeal. Appeals are reviewed by the administrative court (hallinto-oikeus), which can either reject them or send them back for reconsideration. A rejection by the administrative court means that the decision of the Migration Service remains in effect. If the rejection is appealed to the Supreme Administrative Court (korkein hallinto-oikeus), and permission to appeal is granted, it means that the appeal is accepted for consideration. It is recommended to consult a private lawyer or a state legal aid office (valtion oikeusaputoimisto) for drafting an appeal.

Reasons for refusal of residence permit in Finland

When initially obtaining or subsequently renewing a residence permit in Finland, refusals may occur due to insufficient reasons for permanent residence or violations of laws, such as a sham marriage. Additionally, if a foreigner has spent more than two years outside of Finland after receiving the permit, issues may arise. However, in the case of a valid reason, the ban on renewal can be lifted. Authorities also closely monitor cases of violations of EU laws and verify the accuracy of the information provided by the applicant about themselves.

Conclusion

I am fascinated by Finland and all the advantages it offers to residence permit holders. The opportunity to live in a country with excellent environmental indicators, outstanding healthcare, and quality education is truly an attractive proposition. It is especially nice that Finland shares a border with Russia, which makes moving and communicating with relatives easier. Despite all these advantages, it is worth noting that Finland takes the residence permit application process quite seriously. The visa regime can be restrictive, and obtaining a residence permit requires submitting a certain number of documents. This can take time and require additional effort. However, once the permit is obtained, residence permit holders enjoy the freedom and privileges that allow them to live and work in the country. Depending on the type of residence permit, they may have access to numerous opportunities and benefits, including full integration into Finnish social and economic structures. As for the process of obtaining a residence permit, it can be complex and requires careful planning. It is important to have clear and convincing reasons for obtaining a residence permit, such as studying, working, or starting a business. Additionally, owning property in Finland can be an added advantage. Overall, Finland is an attractive and promising choice for anyone seeking a quality life in a modern and developed country. Despite some challenges in the residence permit application process, it is worth dedicating time and effort to realize your dream of living in this beautiful country.