Finland attracts numerous international students with its beautiful scenery and top-notch education. If Finland is your study destination, you need a Finland student visa. But how do I get a student visa for Finland? No worries. The Visa Library has a detailed guide to Finland student visas. We’ll discuss student visa types, eligibility, documents, application procedures, and tips for a smooth application.
Keep reading to learn how to study in Finland with spouse. We will also answer the question: “Does Finland accept dependent visas?“
Table of Contents
ToggleWho is Eligible for a Finland Student Visa?
To be eligible for a Finland student visa, you must meet various specific requirements:
- Admission to a Finnish Educational Institution. An official letter of acceptance from an accredited school in Finland is required.
- Proof of Sufficient Funds. To pay for living costs and tuition (if applicable), you must prove that you are financially stable. Bank statements, a sponsorship letter, or a scholarship award letter can all serve as Finland proof of funds. The Finnish Immigration Service specifies the minimum required amount and is typically revised yearly. How much money do you need for a Finland student visa? For a Finland student visa, you need to show that you have at least 560 euros per month, or 6,720 euros for a year, to cover your living expenses.
- Health Insurance. AIG, Allianz, or Cigna, among others, are reputable providers of comprehensive health insurance that you will need. The policy should cover medical and emergency expenses in Finland, which should have a minimum coverage of 30,000 Euros.
- Intent to Leave After Studies. Family, a job offer, or even just properties from your home country can serve as evidence of this. You can further show your intention to do this by including a cover letter that details your post-graduation plans.
- Language Proficiency. Tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS are typically accepted for admission to English-taught programs. In general, Finland student visa IELTS requirements are 6.0 and 6.5, though the exact score needed to be accepted can vary from one institution to another. Language proficiency tests are necessary for programs in Swedish and Finnish, respectively. For specific language requirements, contact the school of your choice.
- Passport Validity. The validity of your passport should extend for a minimum of three months beyond the duration of your planned stay in Finland. For peace of mind, carrying a valid passport for at least six months is recommended.
- No Criminal Record. As a rule, you need to have a clean criminal record. Some applications may require a certificate stating that the applicant has no criminal record.
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Finland Student Visa
How to Apply for a Finland Student Visa?
A Finland student visa process includes several steps, particularly for courses lasting longer than 90 days. Here’s how to apply a Finland visa as an international student:
- Secure Admission. Obtain an acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution in Finland. Applying directly to Finnish colleges and universities through online application portals is the best way to secure admission. A statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and academic transcripts are usually required. Once accepted, the institution will provide an acceptance letter once you’re accepted.
- Gather Necessary Documents. Get all of your paperwork in order, including:
- A valid passport with at least one blank page for the visa, valid for at least three months beyond your period of stay.
- Passport-sized color photographs
- Official acceptance letter from the Finnish educational institution.
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay. The renowned health insurance providers in Finland are P&C Insurance, Pohjola Insurance, Fennia, Turva, and Euro Accident.
- Evidence of arranged accommodation in Finland. The famous accommodation websites are Forenom, Oikotie, SATO, HOAS, Vuokraovi, Booking.com, Airbnb, and Campus Helsinki.
- Completed and signed the application form for a residence permit for studies.
- Proof of payment of the application fee (350 euros for electronic applications).
- Educational documents like copies of your previous educational certificates and transcripts.
- Complete the Application Online. Applicants for student residence permits usually use the Enter Finland website, which the Finnish Immigration Service runs. Sign up for an account on the site, complete the lengthy application, and attach supporting documents like your passport, proof of income, health insurance information, and an acceptance letter from your Finnish school.
- Pay the Application Fee. Pay the Finland student visa cost for the online residence permit application through the Enter Finland portal. The electronic application fee for a student residence permit is approximately 350-450 Euros. These fees could change at any time.
- Visit the Nearest Finnish Embassy or Consulate. After submitting your online application, schedule an appointment at the closest Finnish consulate or embassy. This will allow them to collect biometric data, verify your identity, and possibly arrange an interview. You must bring the original documents with you.
- Wait for a Decision. Processing times might differ. We will talk about it more in the following sections.
- Receive Your Residence Permit. You will be granted a student residence permit upon approval of your application. This permit will grant you entry to Finland and allow you to stay throughout your academic program.
- Register in Finland
- If you stay longer than 90 days in Finland with your student residence permit, you need to register your right of residence. In Finland, you do that at a local police station or the Digital and Population Data Services Agency. Don’t forget to bring your passport and residence permit. To be able to live legally in Finland, you’ll have to register. You’ll have to provide details like your address, study program, and other info.
- Register your place of residence at the Local Register Office (Maistraatti) and get your Finnish personal identity code (henkilötunnus). This code is essential for many aspects of living in Finland, including banking, healthcare, and dealing with authorities.
- Register for access to student benefits, health insurance, and social services if eligible at the Social Insurance Institution of Finland (Kela). International students can apply for Kela services if they have a residence permit for studies and their stay in Finland is considered permanent.
- Student Union Membership is not a governmental registration, but joining your educational institution’s student union can provide you with various benefits, healthcare services for students, and discounts. For university students, this is often mandatory.
- Depending on your municipality, there might be additional registrations for local services, such as libraries or sports facilities.
- Tax office registration is required if you plan to work during your studies. You need to register with the Finnish Tax Administration to get your tax card.
Finland Student Visa Processing Time
Let’s answer the question, “How long does a Finland student visa take?” A Finland student visa’s processing time is usually one to three months after application submission:
- Preparation Phase. Gathering documents, getting accepted, and arranging finances can take weeks to months. You should start this process six to nine months before your trip.
- Application Submission. As soon as you submit your application, the processing time starts. Generally, it is 1-3 months.
- Post-Decision Phase. When you’re approved, it takes time to get your affairs in order, arrange travel, and book accommodations. After you get your visa, give it a few weeks.
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Who Needs and Does Not Need a Finland Student Visa?
Typically, you’ll need a Finland student visa if you’re a foreigner and your program is longer than a month. Let’s learn more:
Who Needs a Finland Student Visa?
- Non-EU/EEA Citizens. You’ll need a student visa or residence permit if you’re from outside the EU or EEA. It doesn’t matter how long your program is.
- Short Courses (Less than 90 Days). Non-EU/EEA citizens typically need a Schengen visa, also known as a short-stay visa, for short-term courses less than 90 days long.
- Longer Programs (More than 90 Days). Non-EU/EEA citizens taking courses longer than 90 days must apply for a student residence permit.
Who Does Not Need a Finland Student Visa?
- EU/EEA Citizens. Citizens of any EU or EEA country don’t need a visa or residence permit to study in Finland. If you stay longer than 90 days, you have to register your right of residence.
- Nordic Citizens. Finland doesn’t require a visa or residence permit for citizens of Nordic countries (Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Iceland). Also, they don’t have to register their stay.
Finland Student Visa Requirements
There are a few more aspects and procedural requirements to consider for a Finland student visa in addition to the criteria mentioned before:
- Signed Finland student visa application form. You’ll need to complete and sign an application for a student visa or residence permit.
- Biometric Information. You’ll have to provide fingerprints and a photo for the residence permit.
- Residence Permit Application. Non-EU/EEA students over 90 days must apply for a student residence permit.
- Application via Enter Finland Portal. The Enter Finland portal lets you submit your application online, followed by a visit to a Finnish embassy or consulate for biometrics.
- Academic Records and Transcripts. The application process may require you to send your academic records, transcripts, and acceptance letter.
Can I Work in Finland with a Student Visa?
Yes, with a student visa in Finland, you can work during term time and full-time during holidays in any sector as long as the work does not interfere with your studies.
How Much Can a Student Earn in Finland Per Hour?
In Finland, a student can typically earn between 9 to 15 euros per hour, depending on the job and their level of expertise.
Finland Student Visa Working Hours
During the academic year, students are permitted to work for a maximum of 25 hours per week. No limitations are placed on the number of hours that can be worked during holidays or breaks.
How Much is the Tuition Fee in Finland?
- Bachelor’s and Master’s Programs (Non-EU/EEA Students). It depends on the university and the program, but tuition for these programs is about €6,000 to €18,000.
- Doctoral Programs. Tuition is usually free.
- Bachelor’s and Master’s EU/EEA Students. No tuition fees.
- Specialized Programs. There might be a difference in tuition rates for some specialized programs, like those in business and technology.
Can I Bring my Family to Finland while Studying?
Yes, you can bring your family to Finland while studying. To do so, you must provide sufficient funds to support them and adequate living arrangements. Your family members must apply for their own residence permits based on family ties.
Finland Student Visa with Spouse
Getting a Finland study visa with spouse involves a series of steps that intertwine with both your study application and your application for a residence permit based on family ties. Here’s how to navigate the Finland student spouse visa process:
- Gather the Finland student spouse visa requirements.
- Secure an acceptance letter from a Finnish educational institution for yourself.
- Obtain an official marriage certificate to prove your relationship.
- Demonstrate sufficient funds for both you and your spouse (approximately 1,260 euros per month).
- Arrange comprehensive health insurance for both parties for the duration of the stay.
- Verify that your study program qualifies for a residence permit and that your spouse is eligible to apply for a residence permit based on family ties.
- Complete the residence permit application for studies on the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) website or Enter Finland portal. Simultaneously, your spouse should apply for their residence permit based on family ties through the same platform.
- When applying, indicate that you are applying together and link the applications. This helps Migri understand the relationship between the two applications.
- Collect and submit required documents.
- Completed application forms
- Passport and passport-sized photos
- Acceptance letter from the educational institution
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements)
- Health insurance documents
- Marriage certificate (for spouse)
- Accommodation details
- Ensure you pay the required fees for both applications. These fees are separate and must be paid online during the application process. The fee for a Finnish residence permit for studies is approximately 350 euros for electronic applications and 450 euros for paper applications. For a spouse applying for a residence permit based on family ties, the fee was around 470 euros for electronic applications and 600 euros for paper applications.
- Schedule and attend a biometrics appointment at a Finnish embassy or consulate to provide your biometric information.
- Wait for processing. Both applications are usually processed together to ensure decisions are made around the same time.
- Once a decision is made, both you and your spouse will be notified. If approved, you can then proceed to collect your residence permit cards.
- Plan your travel to Finland after receiving the residence permits.
- Upon arrival, both you and your spouse should register your residence in Finland and obtain Finnish personal identity codes.
Is It Hard to Get a Finland Student Visa?
Is a Finland study visa easy? Getting a Finland student visa involves meeting specific criteria, such as acceptance from a Finnish institution, proving sufficient finances, and having comprehensive health insurance. While the process is straightforward for those who meet the requirements, it can be challenging if any criteria are not fully met or documented.
Let’s Sum Up…
Finland student visas and residence permits are covered extensively in this blog, including eligibility, application steps, fees, and frequently asked questions. In the menu and sidebar of the Visa Library, you will find detailed guidance for all your needs regarding your Finland visa.
If you have any advice for people applying for visas, please share it in the comments. Your insights are valuable!
FAQs
It depends on how you meet the requirements. You can get in if you have an admission letter, enough funds, and meet other requirements.
If you can financially support your spouse, he or she can apply for a residence permit.
International students are allowed to work part-time in Finland, but students usually don’t get paid. There may be scholarships available.
It’s not too expensive to live in Finland. It can vary depending on your lifestyle, location, and spending habits.
No, not always. Getting into some programs is possible if you don’t have an English proficiency test.
To cover living expenses, you need around €6,720 a year.
Permanent residency is possible if you meet certain conditions, like a continuous stay.
The residence permit specifies how long students can stay.
Finland has a supportive education environment that welcomes international students.
For living expenses, you’ll need about €6,720 a year.
The success rate for Finland student visas depends on the applicant’s background, the completeness of their application, and other things.
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560 Euros? God! it costs a fortune. I think I should work for 10 years to make that money. Thx 4 the neat info btw.
I want to go finland for study. What are the requirements? How many year gap is acceptable for applying student visa for bachelor level?
The list of visa requirements is explained in the article.
You need to apply to the university for a bachelor’s degree to find out if they accept it or not.
You can fill the gap with work experience.
I want to come to Freeland for study I like so much and I want to finish university please help with me I am from Iraq can I move with my mom and dad?
Hello dear Maria. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website.
You can definitely apply for a Finland student visa if you meet the eligibility criteria. You may come with your family, however, they should apply for their visas separately.
Hello there
As a student visa applicant, can I include my wife in my application and go with me to finland or should she apply later after I’ve arrived in finland for some months
Dear Babatunde Saheed
You can submit your application together but whether you can move to Finland together is up to the official’s decision. You would better ask Finish embassy in your home country.
So pls which is best option going with me or joining me in finland after some months
Dear Babatunde saheed
Ask the Finnish embassy in your home country whether they accept that your wife applies at the same time with you or if she needs to wait so you get to Finland. There is no clear data on this.
What if my wife gets a student residence permit and we are not ready to move with her and the kids immediately.am I allowed to join with our kids a few months after she arrives in school?
Yes, indeed. Your wife can move to Finland and you can apply a few months later as a dependant, however, she should be able to cover your expenses. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website.
hi! i already applied for student visa as single status but im planning to get married before going to finland in january. i just want to ask if there’s no issue in that case especially in processing my documents? one more thing, if i will take him soon, he can be able to work there?pls guide me. Thank you!
Hello there. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website. We are afraid you should reapply, as your marital status has changed. Good luck.
My daughter is 3 years old… Should I need to show same funds amount as spouse?
Hello there. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website. You should apply for a separate visa other than your spouse’s; however, he/she should be able to cover all your expenses while you both live in Finland. There is no need for you to prove financial capability, so to speak.
Do children of international student get access to free schooling? and spouse gets free work permit?
Hello there. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website. If you have an adolescent at home between 13-15 years, they can benefit from free high school. However, if they are older, they will have to pay to enter a secondary upper school. Furthermore, your dependents are not allowed to work under your visa, which includes your spouse as well.
Hi,
My name is Zakiunnisa. I have got admission in SEAMK university finland for september intake. I want to take my husband and my daughter with me, i have to show how much bank balance for my huband and my daughter 6 year old.
Hello there. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website. You must have at least 560 EUR per month to study in Finland, therefore you should prove enough bank statements for your duration of stay. If your husband and children come along as your dependents, you should be able to cover their expenses as well.
Hello and thank you for information
I want to know that can dependant work during his/her hasband or wife studying as a student in one of acceptable Finland universities?
Hello there. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website. The holder of a Finland student visa should prove enough funds to cover their family expenses in the first place, therefore you cannot work in Finland as your spouse’s dependent.
To give more education to my daughters one 12 years old and 8 years old
Hello there. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website. By applying for a Finland student visa your children can go to school for free, as Finland’s educational institutions require no expenses.
Hello, I have already applied for Student visa on Single status as I’m still unmarried, but now I’m planning to get married before I go to Finland for January Intake -2022. So my question is.. Then how can I take my spouse later to Finland on Students spouse visa? Kindly guide me.
Hello there. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website. You are able to bring dependents under your visa. However, they should apply for the visa on their own. Therefore, you should prove you have enough funds beforehand.
Hello, i got the student Visa just now. And i want to apply my husband as my dependents just now so what i have to do in this case? Can my husband can apply and show his funds only because i already got Visa?
Hello there. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website. If you want to bring dependents along to Finland, you have to show enough funds so that the government finds out you can support your husband financially. In other words, your husband is not allowed to work there.
Can dependent work during his wife studying as a student in Finland?
Hello there. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website. Your spouse should be able to cover your expenses, so you can’t work in Finland.
I am sorry to interrupt but the dependent is allowed to work full time in Finland and the student can work up to 25 hours per week.
Dear Karmila Shahi
Thank you for your information. Bets of luck with your life in Finland.
hi! i already applied for student visa as a single status but im planning to get married before going to finland for january intake..i just want to know if there will be no issue for that?one more thing is,if i take him in finland is it allowed for him to work there?Thanks!
Hello there. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website. You can bring your spouse; however, you should be capable of covering his expenses, as he won’t be allowed to work.
My daughter applied for student visa.Is it posible that i can be her dependent and work as well?
Dear Bren.
You can apply for a Finland work visa if you have a job offer from a Finnish employer, that would be an easier way. Also, you can include yourself as your daughter’s dependent and move to Finland. However, check the rules with the Finnish embassy or consulate in your home country. Also, check whether you can be your dependent in her application.
The page is good but I wish you had information about the general deadlines for university applications in Finland.
Dear John
The guidelines for each university and colleague are different and are up to that academic year. Also, It might lead to other confusion for students. You would better see the official university website for the exact dates. bear in mind that even each department might have a different deadline.
I want to study in Finland and I applied in many many universities , 2 months already have completed but I have not received any offer letter for admission. Please help me ,
Dear Fakeer Chand
Thank you for your comment.
You are kindly informed that Visa library is a website offering visa news and we are unable to help you with your university application. You need to contact the university and ask them how long does the processing takes so they inform you of whether you are accepted or not.
Best wishes
Hi there, I’m applying for a scholarship in Finland, and plan to go with my husband, who works remotely for Mexico, does he need any kind of permission or visa to be able to work from Finland for Mexico? Thanks in advance.
Wendy
Dear Windy
If your husband is receiving his income from Mexico as a freelancer or a remote job, you might have to inform the authorities. but he needs a visa to enter the country, but it is unlikely that he needs a work permit to work, yet you would better inform the authorities.
Applying for student visa with spouse and dependents for 4 years program. Main applicant passport is valid until 2028 but spouse and dependents passport is getting expire in 2025 and 2023 respectively. My concern is that I order to get the 4 years resident permit for my spouse and dependents of 4 years is it mandatory to have a passport with the validity of 4 years?
You’d better renew your spouse’s passport but if not, you may renew their passport and yours in Finland through your home country’s embassy if there is one available.
Hi there, I’m from pakistan.
I wanted to ask whether I can study in a university in Finland if I’m on spouse visa?
My spouse is also from Pakistan and he’s on student visa.
If you have been granted a residence permit on the basis of family ties, your right to work and study in Finland is not limited in any way.
Can my spouse apply for masters in finland if she is on spouse visa?
If you have been granted a residence permit on the basis of family ties, your right to work and study in Finland is not limited in any way.
For someone from an English-speaking country like Nigeria, is it mandatory to provide English proficiency document?
Hello dear FORTUNE CHUKWUDI ONYEMAECHI,
Non-EU Students must demonstrate their English language proficiency using an English test if English was not the language of instruction during their prior studies and they are not a student from another member country of the European Union or Economic Area.
Hello,
My wife wants to apply in Bachelor of Business in Finland. it is known to me that she can work up to 25 hours per week during educational period. I Just want to know if I can work full time if I apply for Spouse visa with her?
Hello,
If you have been granted a residence permit based on family relationships, your option to work and study in Finland is not limited in any way.
Team, im going to Finland with My wife student visa as spouse. can i have rights to work there , we are applying for my 6 yrs son also for get any scholarship for his study
You can only work part time.