Study / Student in Finland
One documented route of this kind in Finland, with its conditions, documents, official government fees and process.
Residence permit for studies
Students accepted to a Finnish educational institution for a degree or vocational qualification apply for a study-based residence permit, proving sufficient funds and health insurance.
- Processing time
- Typically several weeks to a few months.
- Validity
- Up to 2 years or duration of studies for a first permit.
- Language requirement
- No language requirement to obtain the permit; programmes may be in English, Finnish or Swedish.
- Permanent residence
- Study time counts at half toward permanent residence; full count begins from a continuous (A) work-based permit.
- Citizenship
- Study years are generally credited at half toward the citizenship residence requirement.
Requirements
- Acceptance to a Finnish educational institution
- Studies leading to a degree or vocational qualification
- Funds of at least EUR 800/month (EUR 9,600 for one year or more)
- Private health insurance valid on arrival
- Valid passport
Required Documents
- Certificate of admission to the educational institution required
- Bank statement for the past 6 months showing sufficient funds required
- Certificate of private health insurance required
- Valid passport required
Official fees
- Online application fee (studies) 350 EUR
Process Steps
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1
Get admitted
Receive acceptance to a Finnish degree or vocational programme.
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2
Arrange funds and insurance
Ensure required funds in your account and take out qualifying health insurance.
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3
Apply in Enter Finland
Submit the studies application online and pay the fee.
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4
Identity verification
Prove identity at a Finnish mission or Migri service point.
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5
Receive permit
Collect the residence permit card and travel to Finland.