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.

• Determine the Type of Residence Permit You Need
  • For work, apply for a work residence permit.
  • For studies, apply for a student residence permit.
  • For family reasons, apply for a residence permit on the basis of family ties.
  • Check the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) website for other types: https://migri.fi/en/residence-permits
• Prepare the Required Documents
  • Valid passport
  • Passport photo
  • Application form (can be filled online: https://enterfinland.fi/eServices)
  • Supporting documents (varies depending on the type of permit; check Migri website for details)
• Apply for a Residence Permit
  • Submit the application online or at a Finnish embassy/consulate abroad.
  • Pay the application fee (fees listed on the Migri website).
  • Wait for processing ( processing times vary; check Migri website for estimated times).
• Register with the Finnish Population Information System
  • After arrival in Finland, register at the Local Register Office (Maistraatti): https://dvv.fi/en/registering-as-a-resident-in-finland
  • Bring your residence permit, passport, and any other relevant documents.
• Apply for a Personal Identity Code
  • This is done simultaneously with the population registration.
  • The personal identity code is crucial for many services in Finland.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the Tax Administration (Vero Skatt) office with your passport and residence permit: https://www.vero.fi/en/individuals/moving-to-or-leaving-finland/
  • Fill out the required forms at the office or online.
• Open a Bank Account
  • Visit a Finnish bank with your passport, residence permit, and personal identity code.
  • Most banks require a Finnish personal identity code for opening an account.
• Register with Kela (The Social Insurance Institution of Finland)
  • Visit the Kela office with your passport, residence permit, and personal identity code: https://www.kela.fi/web/en/moving-to-finland
  • Apply for a Kela card, which is your health insurance card.
• Learn the language
  • Enroll in Finnish or Swedish language courses to facilitate integration.
  • Many municipalities offer free or subsidized courses for immigrants.

Important Notes

Always check the official websites for the most up-to-date information and forms, as requirements may change.

If you are an EU citizen, the process is slightly different; please refer to the Migri website for EU citizen-specific instructions.

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.