Finland Visa Types, Requirement, and Application
A Finland visa is a temporary authorization granting individuals the opportunity to enter and reside in Finland for a specified duration. The Schengen countries have eliminated internal borders, allowing their residents to travel freely within the area without the need for a visa. However, individuals from countries lacking a visa agreement must obtain a Schengen visa to travel to Finland. For more details, let’s check it out!
Who needs a visa to enter Finland?
- If you are a citizen of one of the following EU or Schengen countries, you will be able to travel freely into Finland however you must carry a valid passport or identity card when traveling to Finland. Children must also have their own passport or ID card. These countries include:
- If you are a citizen of a country that has a visa-free agreement with the Schengen area, you do not need a visa to visit Finland. You can stay in Finland for 90 days without a visa or residence permit. These countries include:
Finland visa types
Short stay visits
- Airport transit visa: Enabling smooth airport transits for connecting flights, this visa is valid exclusively within international zones. Citizens from these countries must apply for a Finnish airport transit visa:
- Business visa: Aimed at those intending to conduct business in the Schengen area, this visa allows stays of up to 90 days. It’s a prerequisite for applying for the Schengen visa.
- Tourist visa: Designed for third-country citizens seeking leisure visits to Schengen states, this visa permits stays of up to 90 days.
- Visitor visa: Mandatory for third-country citizens visiting family, relatives, or friends in the Schengen area. A letter of invitation is required, and the visa is valid for 90 days within a 6-month period.
- Cultural visa: Issued for short-term cultural visits, allowing attendance at cultural, sports, and religious events. The duration of stay is limited to 90 days within a 6-month period.
Long stay visits
- Student visa: Granted to third-country citizens pursuing studies in Finland. Admission to a study program is a prerequisite, and holders can apply for a residence permit for stays exceeding 90 days.
- Employment visa: Awarded to non-EU citizens meeting specific conditions for working in Finland. An employment contract or binding offer is essential for application processing.
- Seasonal work visa: Necessary for seasonal work, although it doesn’t include a residence permit. Allows a stay of up to 90 days.
- Family reunion visa: Available for family members of Finnish residents who wish to visit Finland.
- Researcher visa: Granted to non-EU citizens engaged in research activities in established research institutions for a designated period.
- Freelancer visa: Issued to third-country nationals working as freelancers in Finland. Requires a portfolio, professional authorization, evidence of a freelance plan, and letters of commitment from future customers.
- Language course visa: Educational visa for non-EU citizens enrolling in a language course for 3–12 months.
Finland visa requirements
These are the requirements you need to meet when applying for a Finland visa:
- Passport/Travel document: A valid passport issued within the last ten years is required. Ensure its validity for at least 3 months beyond your return from Finland.
- Identity picture: Include a recent identity picture adhering to the Schengen visa photo guidelines.
- Finland visa application form: Download, print, and complete the visa application form. Attach it along with your supporting documents.
- Schengen travel insurance: Obtain mandatory Schengen travel insurance covering medical expenses and emergencies, with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
- Invitation letter: If invited by a friend or family member, submit an invitation letter detailing essential information about both yourself and your host, such as names, dates of birth, addresses, and the nature of the relationship.
- Sufficient financial means: Demonstrate financial capability by providing evidence of funds, with a minimum requirement of €30 per day as per Finland’s regulations.
- Evidence of a place to stay: Depending on the embassy, submit proof of accommodation, including hotel bookings, rental agreements, or Airbnb reservations.
- Travel itinerary: Present a comprehensive travel plan with details like departure and return dates, flight numbers, and the duration of your stay.
- Copies of previous Schengen visas: Include copies of any previous Schengen visas if applicable to your travel history.
- Cover letter: Write a letter outlining your reasons for visiting Finland and the intended duration of your stay.
- Civil status documents: You have to attach relevant civil status documents such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, divorce decrees, or adoption papers.
How to apply for Finland visa?
You need to follow these steps to apply for Finland visa:
- Step#1. Find your nearest Finnish mission: Locate your local Finnish embassy or consulate as they are the ones responsible for issuing visas to third-country nationals. This is the starting point for your visa application.
- Step#2. Complete the visa application form: The visa application form is a key component of your application. Ensure that you fill it out accurately and promptly to avoid any delays in the process.
- Step#3. Organize your documents: Gather and prepare all necessary documents for submission. If any document is not in Finnish, Swedish, or English, ensure it is translated. Additionally, if required, legalize the documents with an apostille stamp.
- Step#4. Schedule an appointment: To hand in your application, you must schedule an appointment with the embassy. Keep in mind that personal submission of documents is a requirement.
- Step#5. Submit your documents: On the day of your scheduled appointment, submit all your gathered documents to the representative authority.
- Step#6. Prepare for an interview: Be ready for a possible interview at the embassy. This interview aims to better understand the purpose of your visit to Finland.
Finland visa fees
The cost of a Finland visa varies based on your age and the type of visa you’re applying for:
- Schengen visa fees for adults: €80
- Schengen visa fees for children (6-11 years old): €40
- Schengen visa fees for children (under 6 years old): Free
- Schengen visa fast-track request fee: €70
For certain countries, the Finland visa fee is €35. These countries include:
There are exemptions from visa fees. If you hold a diplomatic passport or if minors are traveling for educational purposes, you won’t need to pay the visa fee.
In some situations, an additional fee of €10 may apply for specific forms if Finland doesn’t recognize your travel documents. Keep in mind that the visa fee is generally non-refundable in case of rejection. However, there are specific instances where a refund may be possible, such as applying for the wrong visa type.