Visa requirements

Finland

General visa requirements for travelling to Finland. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Tourist visa (Finland Tourist Visa-Free Entry (EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Fee: Free
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a citizen of an EU, EEA member state, or Switzerland

Eligible countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland

Work / Immigration visa (Finland Work Residence Permit (Employed Person - TTOL))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 30-120 calendar days
Fee: EUR 750
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a non-EU/EEA national. EU/EEA citizens have freedom of movement and do not need a work permit.
Employment
Must have a confirmed employment contract with a Finnish employer. Employer must complete their part of the application (TEM054 form). Subject to labour market testing unless exempted.

Required status: Confirmed employment contract with Finnish employer
Financial
Gross salary must be at least EUR 1,600 per month in 2026. If no collective agreement applies or if working part-time, minimum is EUR 1,463 per month.

Minimum funds: EUR 1,600 per month

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-sized photographs meeting ICAO standards
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Employment contract showing salary, employer confirmation of terms; Minimum amount: Gross salary of at least EUR 1,600 per month (2026) or EUR 1,463 if part-time or no collective agreement
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment via Enter Finland, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 750 (online application), EUR 900 (paper application)
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain a signed employment contract from a Finnish employer. The employer must also complete their part of the residence permit application.
Online application
Complete and submit the residence permit application for an employed person at enterfinland.fi
Fee payment
Pay the processing fee of EUR 750 (online) or EUR 900 (paper)
Appointment booking
Book an appointment at the nearest Finnish embassy/consulate for identity verification
Document submission
Attend the embassy/consulate appointment with passport and original documents. First residence permits must be applied for abroad.
Biometrics
Provide fingerprints and photograph at the embassy/consulate
Processing wait
The TE Office (Employment and Economic Development Office) assesses whether labour is available domestically. Total processing time 1-4 months.
Visa collection
Once approved, a residence permit card is issued. If employer has obtained employer certification, a D visa may be issued simultaneously for immediate travel to Finland.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Diplomatic visa (Finland Diplomatic Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay: 90 days
Fee: Free
Validity: 90 days
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
Must hold a valid diplomatic or official/service passport
Purpose of visit
Visit must be of considerable importance for the relations between Finland and the foreign state. Must be on official government business, diplomatic mission, or accredited to an international organization.
Includes
- Official government business
- diplomatic mission

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 3

Tourist visa (Finland Tourist Visa-Free Entry (Schengen Annex II Countries))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay: 90 days
Fee: Free
Validity: 180 days
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a national of an Annex II visa-exempt country

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

Journalist visa (Finland Short-Stay Journalist Schengen Visa (C-type))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 15-45 calendar days
Fee: EUR 90
Validity: 180 days
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a national of a Schengen Annex I country (visa-required)
Employment
Must be a working journalist, correspondent, or photographer on assignment

Required status: Working journalist, correspondent, or photographer
Purpose of visit
Must be visiting Finland for press/media work such as reporting, coverage, interviews, or documentation
Includes
- Press/media work
- reporting
- coverage
- interviews

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-sized colour photographs, 35x45mm, white background, taken within the last 6 months
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, employer sponsorship letter, assignment fee documentation; Minimum amount: EUR 50 per day of stay
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: No
Travel insurance
Coverage area: Entire Schengen area; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Hotel reservation, company-arranged accommodation; Must cover full stay: Yes
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Invitation letter
Host requirements: Assignment letter from media organization detailing the purpose, location, and duration of the assignment in Finland
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen Visa Application Form; Form url: https://finlandvisa.fi/
Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/; Location: VFS Global application centre or Finnish embassy/consulate
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, credit card, debit card (varies by application centre); Amount: EUR 90
Press credentials
Provide a press card, assignment letter or accreditation from the media organisation you represent.

How to apply

Online application
Fill out the Schengen visa application form indicating journalism/press as purpose
Document gathering
Collect press credentials, assignment letter, and all standard Schengen visa documents
Appointment booking
Schedule an appointment at the nearest VFS Global centre or Finnish embassy
Document submission
Submit all documents in person at the appointment
Biometrics
Provide fingerprints and photograph if not previously provided within 59 months
Fee payment
Pay EUR 90 plus any VFS service fee
Processing wait
Standard processing time 15 calendar days
Visa collection
Collect passport with visa sticker

Business visa (Finland Schengen Business Visa (C-type))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 15-45 calendar days
Fee: EUR 90
Validity: 180 days
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a national of a country listed in Schengen Annex I (visa-required countries)
Purpose of visit
Visit must be for legitimate business purposes such as meetings, conferences, trade fairs, or contract negotiations
Includes
- Business meetings
- conferences
- trade fairs
- negotiations
Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient financial means for the duration of stay
Employment
Must be employed or self-employed; company registration documents may be required for business owners

Required status: Employed or self-employed

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-sized colour photographs, 35x45mm, white background, taken within the last 6 months
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements for the last 3 months, company sponsorship letter, employer guarantee of financial support; Minimum amount: EUR 50 per day of stay
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

Must include leave approval: Yes; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
Travel insurance
Coverage area: Entire Schengen area; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Hotel reservation, company-arranged accommodation confirmation; Must cover full stay: Yes
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Invitation letter
Host requirements: Invitation letter from Finnish company or business partner, including company details, invitee details (name, DOB, passport number), purpose of visit, duration, and statement of financial coverage if applicable
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen Visa Application Form; Form url: https://finlandvisa.fi/
Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/; Location: VFS Global application centre or Finnish embassy/consulate
Travel itinerary
Provide an itinerary showing travel dates, destinations and planned accommodation.

Must include addresses: Yes; Must include dates: Yes
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, credit card, debit card (varies by application centre); Amount: EUR 90 (adults), EUR 45 (children 6-11), free (children under 6)

How to apply

Online application
Fill out the Schengen visa application form indicating business as the purpose of visit
Document gathering
Collect invitation letter from Finnish business partner, company registration, employment letter, financial proof, and all standard Schengen visa documents
Appointment booking
Schedule an appointment at the nearest VFS Global application centre or Finnish embassy/consulate
Document submission
Attend the appointment in person and submit the completed application form with all supporting documents
Biometrics
Provide fingerprints and photograph at the application centre if not previously provided within 59 months
Fee payment
Pay the Schengen visa fee of EUR 90 plus any VFS Global service fee
Processing wait
Standard processing time is 15 calendar days, may take up to 45 days
Visa collection
Collect your passport with the visa sticker from the VFS centre or embassy

Student visa (Finland Student Residence Permit)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 30-120 calendar days
Fee: EUR 600
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a non-EU/EEA national. EU/EEA citizens have freedom of movement and do not need a residence permit.
Purpose of visit
Must have been accepted as a student at a Finnish higher education institution or other educational institution for degree studies or vocational qualification
Includes
- Study at Finnish higher education institution
Financial
Must have at least EUR 800 per month (EUR 9,600 for one year) available for living expenses

Minimum funds: EUR 9,600
Health
Must have private health insurance covering medical and pharmaceutical expenses in Finland

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-sized photographs meeting ICAO standards
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statement showing at least EUR 9,600 in applicant's personal account, scholarship award letter, grant confirmation, financial guarantee from sponsor; Minimum amount: EUR 9,600 (EUR 800 per month for 12 months)
Admission letter
Must be notarized: No; Must be original: Yes; Must show program dates: Yes
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment via Enter Finland, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 600 (online application), EUR 750 (paper application)
Academic transcript
Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes
Private health insurance
Coverage territory: Finland; Minimum coverage: Must cover medical and pharmaceutical expenses during stay in Finland

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain an official acceptance/admission letter from a Finnish higher education institution
Online application
Complete and submit the residence permit application online at enterfinland.fi. Upload all required documents.
Fee payment
Pay the processing fee of EUR 600 (online) or EUR 750 (paper) via the Enter Finland portal
Appointment booking
Book an appointment at the nearest Finnish embassy/consulate to verify your identity in person
Document submission
Attend the embassy/consulate appointment with your passport and original documents for identity verification
Biometrics
Provide fingerprints and photograph at the embassy/consulate
Processing wait
Processing time varies from 1-4 months depending on the embassy and time of year. You can track your application status online.
Visa collection
Once approved, a residence permit card will be issued. If you applied for a D visa simultaneously, a visa sticker will be placed in your passport for initial entry.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Transit visa (Finland Airport Transit Visa (Type A))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1 days
Processing time: 15-30 calendar days
Fee: EUR 90
Validity: 1 day
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
Required for nationals of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, DR Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, and Sri Lanka

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-sized colour photographs, 35x45mm, white background, taken within the last 6 months
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: No
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen Visa Application Form (Airport Transit); Form url: https://finlandvisa.fi/
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, credit card, debit card (varies by application centre); Amount: EUR 90 (adults), EUR 45 (children 6-11), free (children under 6)

How to apply

Online application
Fill out the Schengen visa application form indicating airport transit as the purpose
Document gathering
Collect confirmed onward flight tickets, passport, and photos
Appointment booking
Schedule an appointment at the nearest Finnish embassy/consulate or VFS Global centre
Document submission
Submit all documents in person at the appointment
Fee payment
Pay the airport transit visa fee of EUR 90
Processing wait
Processing takes approximately 15 calendar days
Visa collection
Collect your passport with the airport transit visa sticker

Tourist visa (Finland Schengen Tourist Visa (C-type))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 15-45 calendar days
Fee: EUR 90
Validity: 180 days
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a national of a country listed in Schengen Annex I (visa-required countries)
Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient financial means of at least EUR 50 per day of intended stay

Minimum funds: EUR 50 per day
Visa history
Previous visa history and travel history may be assessed; previous Schengen visa compliance is considered

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-sized colour photographs, 35x45mm, white background, taken within the last 6 months
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements for the last 3 months, credit card statements, employment letter confirming salary, sponsorship letter with sponsor's financial documents; Minimum amount: EUR 50 per day of stay
Travel insurance
Coverage area: Entire Schengen area; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Hotel reservation, rental agreement, invitation from host with proof of their accommodation; Must cover full stay: Yes
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen Visa Application Form; Form url: https://finlandvisa.fi/
Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/; Location: VFS Global application centre or Finnish embassy/consulate
Travel itinerary
Provide an itinerary showing travel dates, destinations and planned accommodation.

Must include addresses: Yes; Must include dates: Yes
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, credit card, debit card (varies by application centre); Amount: EUR 90 (adults), EUR 45 (children 6-11), free (children under 6)

How to apply

Online application
Fill out the Schengen visa application form online at finlandvisa.fi or obtain a paper form from the embassy/consulate
Document gathering
Collect all required documents including passport, photos, insurance, financial proof, accommodation proof, and flight reservations
Appointment booking
Schedule an appointment at the nearest VFS Global application centre or Finnish embassy/consulate. Apply no earlier than 6 months and no later than 15 days before travel.
Document submission
Attend the appointment in person and submit the completed application form with all supporting documents
Biometrics
Provide fingerprints and photograph at the application centre. Biometrics are valid for 59 months and may not need to be retaken if previously provided.
Fee payment
Pay the Schengen visa fee of EUR 90 (adults) at the application centre. VFS Global service fee may also apply.
Processing wait
Standard processing time is 15 calendar days. May take up to 45 days in complex cases.
Visa collection
Collect your passport with the visa sticker from the VFS centre or embassy, or arrange courier delivery if available

Work / Immigration visa (Finland Entrepreneur Residence Permit)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 30-120 calendar days
Fee: EUR 750
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a non-EU/EEA national
Employment
Must be starting or running a profitable business in Finland. The business must provide sufficient income. Assessed by Business Finland.

Required status: Starting or running a profitable business in Finland
Financial
Must demonstrate the business can provide sufficient livelihood and that investment capital is available

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-sized photographs meeting ICAO standards
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Business plan with financial projections, proof of investment capital, bank statements; Minimum amount: Sufficient income to support yourself from business operations (at least EUR 1,000 per month)
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment via Enter Finland, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 750 (online application), EUR 900 (paper application)
Company registration
Provide company registration evidence for the inviting, sponsoring or employing organisation.
Business plan
Provide a business plan showing the activity, funding, market and expected costs.

Must include financials: No

How to apply

Document gathering
Prepare a comprehensive business plan, financial projections, and company registration documents if the company is already established
Online application
Complete and submit the residence permit application for an entrepreneur at enterfinland.fi
Fee payment
Pay the processing fee of EUR 750 (online) or EUR 900 (paper)
Appointment booking
Book an appointment at the nearest Finnish embassy/consulate
Document submission
Attend the appointment with passport and original documents
Biometrics
Provide fingerprints and photograph
Processing wait
Business Finland assesses the viability and profitability of the business. Then Migri makes the final decision. Total processing time 1-4 months.
Visa collection
Once approved, a residence permit card is issued

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Medical visa (Finland Schengen Medical Visa (C-type))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 15-45 calendar days
Fee: EUR 90
Validity: 180 days
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a national of a country listed in Schengen Annex I (visa-required countries)
Health
Must have a medical condition requiring treatment at a Finnish healthcare institution; acceptance letter from the institution is required
Financial
Must demonstrate ability to pay for medical treatment and living expenses during stay

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-sized colour photographs, 35x45mm, white background, taken within the last 6 months
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, proof of pre-payment to hospital, letter from home country ministry of health confirming coverage, medical insurance covering treatment; Minimum amount: EUR 50 per day of stay plus proof of payment for medical treatment
Travel insurance
Coverage area: Entire Schengen area; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Hotel reservation, hospital accommodation confirmation, rented apartment; Must cover full stay: Yes
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Invitation letter
Host requirements: Official acceptance letter from the Finnish medical institution confirming the treatment, specifying the medical condition, treatment plan, estimated duration, and cost of treatment
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen Visa Application Form; Form url: https://finlandvisa.fi/
Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/; Location: VFS Global application centre or Finnish embassy/consulate
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, credit card, debit card (varies by application centre); Amount: EUR 90 (adults), EUR 45 (children 6-11), free (children under 6)

How to apply

Document gathering
Secure an official acceptance letter from the Finnish medical institution confirming the treatment plan, duration, and costs
Online application
Fill out the Schengen visa application form indicating medical treatment as the purpose of visit
Appointment booking
Schedule an appointment. Medical cases may receive priority processing depending on urgency.
Document submission
Attend the appointment in person and submit all documents
Biometrics
Provide fingerprints and photograph if not previously provided within 59 months
Fee payment
Pay the Schengen visa fee of EUR 90 plus any VFS Global service fee
Processing wait
Standard processing time is 15 calendar days. Urgent medical cases may be expedited.
Visa collection
Collect your passport with the visa sticker

Journalist visa (Finland Journalist/Media Worker Residence Permit)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 30-120 calendar days
Fee: EUR 750
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a non-EU/EEA national
Employment
Must work as a correspondent, journalist, or photographer in the field of mass media

Required status: Journalist, correspondent, or photographer

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-sized photographs meeting ICAO standards
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Employment contract with media organization, freelance contract, proof of income from media work; Minimum amount: Sufficient income from media work to support yourself in Finland
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment via Enter Finland, bank transfer; Amount: EUR 750 (online application), EUR 900 (paper application)
Press credentials
Provide a press card, assignment letter or accreditation from the media organisation you represent.

How to apply

Online application
Complete and submit the residence permit application for work in the field of mass media at enterfinland.fi
Fee payment
Pay the processing fee of EUR 750 (online) or EUR 900 (paper)
Appointment booking
Book an appointment at the nearest Finnish embassy/consulate
Document submission
Attend the appointment with passport and original documents. First residence permits must be applied for abroad.
Biometrics
Provide fingerprints and photograph
Processing wait
Processing time 1-4 months
Visa collection
Once approved, a residence permit card is issued. A D visa may be issued simultaneously for immediate travel.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.