Finland

Finland stands out as an excellent destination for international students seeking quality education. The country warmly welcomes non-EU or EEA students to apply for a student visa to pursue various academic programs, including graduate, postgraduate, and master’s courses.

For shorter courses lasting less than 3 months, students can apply for a short-term student visa. However, for long-term studies extending beyond 1 year, such as degree programs, students are granted a student residence permit valid for one year. This permit can be renewed as needed, depending on the duration of the course.

Finland Student Visa Requirements 

Third-country nationals require a visa to study in Finland, excluding individuals from:

The Schengen Area or the EEA/EU.

Countries such as the US, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Republic of Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican City, and others with a visa agreement with Finland.

Students eligible to study in Finland without a visa can do so for up to 90 days. For longer study programs, registration as temporary residents in Finland is necessary until studies are completed.

International students needing a visa can apply for either a Schengen visa or a long-term student visa.

Finland Student Visa Requirements:

Essential documents required for your visa application:

1. Valid Passport:

Your passport must be valid for the next three months beyond your planned departure from Finland.

2. Identity Picture:

Provide a recent identity picture adhering to Schengen visa photo guidelines.

3. Passport Bio Page:

Attach a copy of your passport’s bio page.

4. Proof of Enrollment:

Provide evidence of acceptance into a study program at a Finnish university.

5. Health Insurance:

Obtain international student health insurance covering all medical emergencies during your stay.

6. Financial Means:

Demonstrate financial capability with a minimum of €560 per month in your bank account.

7. Paid Tuition Fee:

Include a certificate confirming payment of tuition fees or proof of financial means to cover them.

8. Scholarship Evidence:

If supported by a scholarship, provide a certificate confirming financial support.

9. Civil Status Documents:

Birth certificate, marriage license, divorce decree, or adoption papers.

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for a student visa, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Enrolled at a Finnish university.
2. No travel bans for the Schengen Area.
3. No criminal charges.
4. Not a danger to Finland and its interests.

How to Apply for a Finland Student Visa?

Follow these steps to apply for a Finland Student Visa:

Apply for University:

Choose and apply to a Finnish university offering your desired study program.

Apply for Student Visa:

Upon acceptance, apply for a student visa/residence permit based on studying.

Visit Finnish Mission:

Visit a local Finnish embassy to prove identity, submit fingerprints, and pay the application fee.

Wait for Response:

Await a decision on your visa application.

Travel to Finland:

Once approved, travel to Finland to commence your studies.

Application Procedure:

Apply to a university first.

After acceptance, apply for a student visa/residence permit.

Fill the online application or visit a local embassy/consulate.

Provide necessary documents, fingerprints, and pay the fee.

Attend an interview if required, to discuss your study intentions.

Residence Permit Processing Time in Finland

• Duration: The processing of your application may take between 1 to 5 months.
• Collection: You can collect your residence permit upon your arrival in Finland.

Working with a Residence Permit

• Eligibility: International students holding a residence permit.
• Work Hours: Students are allowed to work up to 25 hours a week during the program and full-time during vacation breaks, provided the work is related to their course.

Working in Finland while Studying

• Eligibility: International students with a residence permit.
• Work Hours: During the program, students can work 25 hours per week and full-time during summer breaks if the work is relevant to their course.

Finland Dependent Visa

• Eligibility: Spouse and children of a student with a residence permit.
• Application: Spouse and children must independently apply for a permit.
• Processing: Finnish immigration authorities will endeavor to process applications together.
• Financial Requirement: Proof of sufficient funds to support their stay in Finland is necessary.

Finland Student Visa Cost

• Long-term Resident Permit: Online applications cost between 350 to 500 Euros, while offline applications cost between 450 to 550 Euros.
• Short-term Visa (up to 90 days): Costs approximately 80 to 100 Euros.

Finland Student Visa Processing Time

• Online Application: Typically takes 2 to 4 months.
• Offline Application: Generally takes 3 to 5 months.
• Course Options: Finland encourages international students to pursue graduate, postgraduate, and master’s courses.