According to The World Happiness Report 2022, Finland was named the world’s happiest country for the fifth year in a row.
Due to its unique school system, low study prices, excellent standard of living, and plenty of fantastic career possibilities, it has become a favorite study destination for international students.
To study in Finland, you must have a student visa. If your studies in Finland go more than 90 days, you will need a residence visa.
A short-term visa is necessary if the course of study is less than 90 days.
In this post, we will discuss how to study in Finland as an international student, how to obtain a Finland study visa, Finland study visa requirements, Finland visa fees, and Finland student visa processing time, among other important Finland student visa details.
Finland Student Visa: General Information
As previously indicated, a Residence Permit is required if the studies in Finland will last more than 90 days. In most cases, a residence permit is provided for the duration of the studies.
However, it can only be provided for the duration of the student’s passport’s validity.
Students who are traveling to Finland to study and have been accepted as students at a Finnish educational institute can apply for a residence permit.
A university, a university of applied sciences, or a vocational education institution are all examples of educational institutes. A residence permit is not issued for studies that include online distance learning and do not require students to stay in Finland.
Students who do not have a residence visa may study in Finland for a maximum of 90 days. Even if they only remain in Finland for 90 days, they must obtain a visa.
This visa is a temporary entrance permit valid for no more than 90 days.
Students who want to come to Finland for postgraduate studies after finishing a master’s degree must apply for a residence permit for scientific research.
Students, on the other hand, who seek to come to Finland to pursue a higher education degree will be awarded a continuous residence permit (A permit).
Finland Student Visa Requirements
Students must complete the standards listed below in order to obtain a residence visa to study in Finland.
Have assistance during your studies: Students must be self-sufficient in Finland for the duration of their studies.
In a sense, students must have at least EUR 560 available to them each month in order to pay for housing, food, and other necessities.
Students must include in their application how they plan to finance their stay during the first year of study.
At the time of application, they must have 6,720 Euros in their bank account.
It should be noted that if the studies take less than a year, you will need 560 Euros every month.
However, if the student’s educational institute covers their living expenses in Finland, they do not need 560 Euros per month.
In this instance, students must attach to their application papers the support provided by their educational institute.
Study Place: Students who have been accepted by a Finnish educational institute can obtain a residence permit. Their studies must result in a degree or a vocational certificate. It should be noted that students cannot obtain a residency permit in order to complete their basic education.
Insurance: As an international student in Finland, you must bear the costs if you become ill. In order to obtain a residence permit in Finland, students must obtain private insurance that covers their medical and pharmaceutical costs.
Other common entrance criteria for Finland
In addition to the following requirements, make sure to meet the general conditions listed below before applying for a Finland student visa:
- A current passport
- A prohibition on admission has not been prescribed.
- There is no threat to public order or security.
- Not a threat to public health Not a threat to Finland’s international relations
Documents Required to Get a Finland Student Visa
To obtain a Finland student visa, the following documents are required:
- A passport
- The authorities require a passport-size photograph.
- A colored duplicate of the passport page, including the student’s personal information
- Documents proving that students are lawfully residing in the nation where they intend to apply for a residence visa in Finland (if applicable).
- Acceptance/attendance certificate from a Finnish educational institute
Documents demonstrating adequate financial resources, such as bank statements from the last three months.
At the time of submitting your Finland student visa application, you must have €6,720 in your bank account. If your course lasts less than a year, you must bring €560 every month.
If your university/college provides free housing, you must bring €280 per month with you. If your university/college offers you free housing and meals, you must pay €195 per month.
Certificate of Insurance
Document demonstrating payment of the tuition price or scholarship document
Other documents, such as previous degree certificates or test scores, are acceptable.
If students are under the age of 18, they must attach a validated birth certificate as well as their parent’s or guardian’s authorization to move to Finland.
How do I apply for a Finnish Student Visa?
The following are the stages for applying for a Finland study visa:
- To begin, fill out the application form for a residency permit online or at the Finnish Embassy, and attach all required papers. Students can submit an online application or a paper application based on their preference.
- After that, pay the processing cost.
- After that, go to an embassy, consulate, or service center to establish your identity.
- Following that, you must await the application’s decision.
- The application will then be processed.
- Student Visa for Finland Time Required for Processing: Electronic applications are likely to take 1-2 months to process. Paper applications are likely to take 2-3 months to process.
Finland Study Visa Cost
The application fee for a residence permit in Finland is listed below. The processing period for a Finland student visa varies depending on the manner of application. Check the table below
| Type | Application Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic Application Fee | €350 | 1-2 months |
| Paper Application Fee | €450 | 2-3 months |
Note: If a student wishes to pursue research or a PhD degree, he or she must apply for residence permission as a researcher. The electronic application charge for the first permit is €380, whereas the paper application fee is €480.
Tips for a Successful Visa Application
1. Start Early: Begin the application process as soon as you receive your acceptance letter. Visa processing times can be unpredictable, so it’s best not to leave things until the last minute.
2. Gather Required Documents: Ensure that you have all the necessary documents, including your acceptance letter, proof of sufficient funds, health insurance, and a valid passport. Check the official website of the Finnish Immigration Service for a detailed list of requirements.
3. Financial Planning: Be prepared to demonstrate your financial stability. Maintain a bank account statement or scholarship confirmation that covers your living expenses in Finland.
4. Health Insurance: Make sure you have comprehensive health insurance that meets Finnish requirements. Some universities offer insurance plans specifically tailored to international students.
5. Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided by the Finnish embassy or consulate in your home country. Any deviation from the prescribed process could result in delays or rejection.
6. Language Proficiency: While many programs are offered in English, having some knowledge of Finnish can be beneficial for daily life in Finland. Consider taking language courses if possible.
Living and Studying in Finland
1. Cost of Living
Finland is known for its high quality of life, but it’s essential to budget accordingly. Depending on where and how you live, your cost of living may change.
On average, a student in Finland should budget for accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses. It’s a good idea to check with your university for estimates and tips on managing your finances.
2. Accommodation
Finnish universities often provide accommodation options for international students, including student dormitories and shared apartments.
These options are convenient and offer a chance to meet fellow students. However, there’s also the possibility of renting a private apartment if you prefer more independence.
3. Part-Time Work
As an international student in Finland, you are generally allowed to work part-time while studying.
This can be a great way to offset some of your living expenses and gain work experience.
However, make sure to check the specific regulations and restrictions regarding part-time work for international students in Finland.
4. Cultural Experiences
Studying in Finland is not just about academics; it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in a unique culture.
From enjoying traditional Finnish cuisine to experiencing the stunning Northern Lights, Finland offers a wide range of cultural experiences.
Be sure to explore the local culture and make the most of your time in this beautiful country.
5. Working with a Residence Permit in Finland
A student who has been granted a residence visa for academic purposes is free to work for pay as long as it is related to their studies and includes practical training or work toward a diploma.
Additionally, students are permitted to labor for pay for a total of 30 hours per week.
Only if the average weekly work hours at the end of the year are no more than 30 hours can the number of hours be surpassed on occasion.
Students who have earned a degree in Finland but have not yet found employment are eligible to apply for a residence visa in order to hunt for employment.
Applicants may apply for a work extension permit as soon as they graduate or no later than five years after they have received their diploma.
Keep in mind that a residency permit for job searching can only be issued for up to two years.
However, students can apply for a residence permit for work based on a degree earned in Finland, provided they have done so and have found employment.
Finland Visa Requirements for Family Members
If a student has been given a residency visa in Finland for academic purposes, then their spouse and children will also be given a residency permit based on familial links.
The first residence permit for student family members is only good for a year, while the extended residence permit is only good for four years.
Even a student’s family members may be given an A permit for continuous residence if they are enrolled in a higher education institution to pursue a degree.
The initial A permit for family members may be valid for a year. However, the extended permission for family members can only be valid for a maximum of four years.
When applying for study abroad, students need to exercise extreme caution. Make sure to plan out your applications well in advance, to leave yourself wiggle room in case of unforeseen events, and to have a backup strategy.
FAQS
1. Is it simple to obtain a student visa to Finland?
You must be enrolled at a Finnish university, which means you must apply for your study program before applying for your visa. You must not have any travel restrictions in the Schengen Area. You must be free of all criminal charges. You must not pose a threat to Finland or its interests.
2. How much bank balance is required for a student visa to Finland?
At the time of submitting your Finland student visa application, you must have €6,720 in your bank account. If your course lasts less than a year, you must bring €560 every month. If your university or college provides free housing, you must bring €280 per month with you.
3. Who is qualified for a study visa to Finland?
You must be enrolled at a Finnish university before applying for a visa. There must be no travel restrictions in the Schengen Area. You must not be the subject of any criminal charges. You must not endanger Finland’s national interests.
Conclusion
Studying in Finland as an international student is a rewarding and enriching experience. With its world-class education system, cultural diversity, and innovative research opportunities, Finland has become a top choice for students worldwide.
Obtaining a Finland study visa is a crucial step in this journey, and by following the eligibility criteria and application process outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can set yourself on the path to a successful academic adventure in the Land of a Thousand Lakes.
Remember to plan ahead, gather the necessary documents, and embrace the unique cultural experiences that Finland has to offer.
Your educational journey in this beautiful Nordic country awaits!