First Residence Permit Finland

About

If you intend to stay in Finland for more than 90 days, a First Residence Permit must be applied for. Choose the appropriate application form, depending on whether you plan to live in Finland with a family member, work or study there, or both.

The best application form for you will depend on why you are visiting Finland when you apply for your first residence permit there. The duration of this residence may differ, and the visa is provided for several reasons, which are mentioned below.

  • Employment in Finland 
  • Research in Finland 
  • Relocating to Finland to be with a family relative.
  • A residence permit for a trafficking victim.
  • Remigration 
  • Arriving in Finland for unrelated reasons.

Eligibility

To be eligible, you must;

  • have a valid passport.
  • be applying for one of the above reasons.
  • Suppose you are a citizen of the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In that case, you do not need a residency permit to live in Finland. Still, you do need to register your right to live there.

Documents

Gather the following before you apply for the first residence permit.

  • Identity documents
  • Documents of qualification
  • Invitation from the institute related to your purpose of stay. For instance, an invitation letter from a university if you are a student.
  • Documents of dependents, if any.

Process

When to Apply
The residence permit should be requested at least a few months before you intend to relocate.

Visa Processing Time
The first residence permit is usually processed within 60 days. But it can take longer depending on various factors.

How to Apply
You must personally apply for your residence permit. For example, you cannot request a residence permit for your partner or employee. You may also hire a visa consultant to avoid any trouble.

Duration & Fees

Duration
Unless you specifically request a shorter length of validity, the first permit is normally granted for one year. Permits for continuous residency can be renewed for up to three years.

Fees
While enrolled in the course of study in Finland, you must pay 350 EUR for the visa to apply for your first residence permit. Moreover, the price can be lower for a minor applicant.

Extension

Before the visa expires, you can apply for an extended permit. It can also lead to a permanent residence permit.

Highlights

Study
Live in the country while studying.

Work
Apply for residence as an employee.

Dependents
Include family members, if any.

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