How to Apply for a Finland Student Visa (Residence Permit) – 2025–2026

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Studying in Finland offers international students the opportunity to experience world-class education, safety, and innovation in one of Europe’s most advanced countries. To study there, non-EU/EEA students must apply for a student residence permit, commonly known as the Finnish student visa. Below is the updated step-by-step guide and requirements for the 2025–2026 period.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Finnish student residence permit, applicants must:

• Have an official admission letter from a Finnish higher education institution for full-time studies that lead to a degree or qualification.
  
  
• Show proof of sufficient financial means to cover living expenses in Finland. The minimum required amount is generally around €560 per month, or approximately €6,720 per year. However, some applicants may be required to demonstrate a higher amount, up to €9,600 per year, depending on the study program.
  
  
• Have valid health insurance that covers medical expenses. For studies lasting less than two years, private insurance is mandatory; for longer studies, students may access Finland’s public healthcare system.
  
  
• Be enrolled in full-time studies at a recognized institution.
  
  

Documents Required

When applying, prepare and upload or submit the following documents:

1. Valid passport with blank pages and a recent passport-style photo.
   
   
2. Official admission letter from your Finnish university or institution.
   
   
3. Proof of sufficient funds, such as recent bank statements or a scholarship confirmation letter.
   
   
4. Health insurance certificate showing appropriate medical coverage.
   
   
5. Proof of tuition payment or a scholarship award (if applicable).
   
   
6. Residence proof if applying from a country other than your own.
   
   
7. Receipt for visa application fee and proof of online submission.
   
   

Certified translations must accompany all documents not in English, Finnish, or Swedish.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Receive your university admission letter confirming your place of study.
   
   
2. Create an account on the Enter Finland online portal and complete the student residence permit application form.
   
   
3. Upload all required documents and pay the application fee online.
   
   
4. Book an appointment at your nearest Finnish Embassy or Consulate for identity verification and biometrics (photo and fingerprints).
   
   
5. Attend your appointment with all original documents and your passport.
   
   
6. Wait for the decision from the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri). Processing times vary depending on your country and the volume of applications.
   
   
7. Once approved, you will receive a residence permit card, which allows you to enter Finland and begin your studies.
   
   

Visa Fees and Processing Times

• Online Application Fee: Approximately €450
  
  
• Paper Application Fee: Around €550
  
  
• Processing Time: 1–2 months for online applications; paper applications may take longer (up to 3 months).
  
  

It is strongly recommended to apply as soon as you receive your admission offer, especially before the start of the academic year in August or September.

Additional Information

• Students enrolled in programs longer than two years can access Finland’s public healthcare system and are required to register locally after arrival.
  
  
• Some applicants may be eligible for a D-type visa, which allows entry to Finland before the residence permit card is issued.
  
  
• You can work part-time for up to 30 hours per week during your studies, provided your employment is related to your degree or during holidays.
  
  
• After graduation, you can apply for a post-study residence permit to search for jobs or start working in Finland.
  
  
• Family members, such as spouses or children, can apply for dependent residence permits, provided they meet the financial requirements.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the duration of your study period.
  
  
• Always upload clear, readable documents in the Enter Finland portal.
  
  
• Apply early — the earlier you apply, the smoother your visa approval will be.
  
  
• Keep track of your application status through your Enter Finland account.
  
  

If you receive a scholarship, include the official scholarship confirmation letter to demonstrate financial stability.

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