Residence Permits in Finland — Official Guide
What Is a Residence Permit?
If you are coming to Finland from outside the EU/EEA for more than 90 days, you generally must apply for a residence permit. The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) is the official authority that handles all applications, decisions, extensions, and related matters. Maahanmuuttovirasto
📍 Official website (Finnish Immigration Service - Migri):
➡️ https://migri.fi/en/residence-permit Maahanmuuttovirasto
Where to Apply
All residence permit applications are submitted through the official Finnish e‑service:
➡️ Enter Finland (Online service) — https://enterfinland.fi/ ➟ Apply for residence permits, extensions, permanent residence, renewals, etc. enterfinland.fi
Types of Residence Permits
The main permit types are: Maahanmuuttovirasto
1. First Residence Permit
This is for your initial move to Finland, depending on your purpose: work, studies, family, research, etc. Maahanmuuttovirasto
➡️ Official info & categories:
https://migri.fi/en/first-residence-permit Maahanmuuttovirasto
Important:
First permits are normally applied from outside Finland before arrival.
You must prove your identity at a Finnish embassy/consulate abroad.
In some special cases (e.g., victim of exploitation), you can apply from inside Finland. Maahanmuuttovirasto
2. Permit Types Based on Purpose
Residence permits depend on the reasons you are coming:
Work & Employment
Employed person
Specialist
Seasonal work
Entrepreneur
For details: https://migri.fi/en/residence-permit-types and specific sections on Migri. Maahanmuuttovirasto
Study & Research
Student permits
Researchers
Apply via Enter Finland and follow rules for students (proof of acceptance, insurance, funds). enterfinland.fi
Family Members
If you plan to live with family in Finland, you can apply on that basis. Maahanmuuttovirasto
➡️ Official guide for student’s family members:
https://migri.fi/en/students-family-members Maahanmuuttovirasto
3. Extended Residence Permit
If you already hold a permit and want to stay longer, apply for extension before your current permit expires.
➡️ https://enterfinland.fi/eServices/info/residenceextension enterfinland.fi
4. Permanent Residence Permit
After living in Finland on a continuous residence permit (A permit) for at least 4 years, you may be eligible for a permanent residence permit (P permit).
➡️ Application (Enter Finland): https://enterfinland.fi/eServices/info/permanentresidencepermitchildapply enterfinland.fi
Residence Permit Types Explained
Residence permit cards are marked with letters showing what type:
🔹 A permit – Continuous permit (long‑term): often used for long‑term work, family, specialist categories.
🔹 B permit – Temporary permit: often for temporary stays like internships, short‑term work or studies.
🔹 P permit – Permanent residence: after meeting residence and other requirements. Maahanmuuttovirasto
➡️ Full list of permit types and details:
https://migri.fi/en/residence-permit-types Maahanmuuttovirasto
Basic Requirements (General)
Although details vary by category (work, study, family), you generally must provide:
✔ A valid passport
✔ Correct and complete application
✔ Proof of financial means (sufficient income or funds)
✔ Health insurance (especially for students and long stays)
✔ Purpose documentation (job contract, acceptance letter, family ties)
✔ Biometric data (at embassy/service point when required) Maahanmuuttovirasto
Important Financial Information
✔ Income minimums and thresholds for family & work permits changed recently, and the Finnish Immigration Service checks whether you can financially support yourself and your family. PAM
✔ As of January 1, 2025, a minimum salary requirement of €1,600 per month may apply for work‑based residence permits to ensure a reasonable standard of living. STT Info
Processing Times
Processing times vary depending on the type of permit and volume of applications. You can check the status or estimated processing time here:
Check processing time and application status
https://migri.fi/en/check-the-processing-time-of-your-application Maahanmuuttovirasto
Key Official Links
📎 Finnish Immigration Service (Migri – official)
➡️ https://migri.fi/en/residence-permit Maahanmuuttovirasto
📎 Enter Finland – Official Online Application Portal
➡️ https://enterfinland.fi/ enterfinland.fi
📎 First Residence Permit (Official details)
➡️ https://migri.fi/en/first-residence-permit Maahanmuuttovirasto
📎 Residence Permit Types
➡️ https://migri.fi/en/residence-permit-types Maahanmuuttovirasto
📎 Processing Times & Status
➡️ https://migri.fi/en/check-the-processing-time-of-your-application Maahanmuuttovirasto
📎 Family Members’ Residence Permits (Students)
➡️ https://migri.fi/en/students-family-members Maahanmuuttovirasto
Tips When Applying
✔ Apply early (well before your planned travel date).
✔ Always use EnterFinland.fi — the official system — to avoid scams.
✔ Prepare all documents carefully and upload clear scans.
✔ Use the official Migri contact info if you need help.
✔ Keep your passport valid throughout the permit process.
⚠️ Important Note / Disclaimer
Information may change: Please note that residence permit rules, requirements, and processes in Finland can change at any time. Always double-check the latest information on the official Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) or Enter Finland websites.
Official sources only: Do not rely on third-party websites or social media for your application guidance. Always refer to Migri and EnterFinland.
Translations may vary: Some words or terms may change slightly when translated from English to other languages. Always confirm the original meaning in the official English pages.
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Your safety, legal compliance, and accurate guidance are our top priority. This page is for informational purposes and does not replace official legal advice.