🛂 Visa Guidelines | Impel Overseas Consultants Limited

🧭 Navigating Your Path to Study and Stay in Finland

Your guide to Finnish student visas and residence permits

Finland offers a clear and student-friendly visa and residence permit system to support international learners. Whether you’re pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree, understanding the process will help ensure a smooth and successful academic journey in Finland.

🎓 Types of Student Residence Permits

Permit Type	Description	Duration	Eligibility
Student Residence Permit	Standard permit for degree-seeking students	Valid for entire program + 1 year	Admission to full-time studies at a Finnish institution
Exchange Student Residence Permit	For short-term academic exchanges between partner institutions	Duration of exchange	Acceptance in a student exchange program
Researcher Permit	For PhD students or academic researchers	Program-specific	Research plan and university acceptance

🔄 Most student residence permits are now granted for the entire duration of studies, plus 1 year for job search (effective from April 2022).

📝 Application Process for Finnish Student Residence Permit

✅ Admission Confirmation

Secure an official letter of acceptance from a Finnish university or university of applied sciences.

✅ Create Account on Enter Finland Portal

✅ Prepare Required Documents

Valid passport
Passport-size photos (as per Finnish standards)
University acceptance letter
Proof of sufficient financial means (~€560/month or €6,720/year)
Proof of paid tuition fee (if applicable)
Proof of accommodation in Finland
Health insurance (coverage of at least €40,000/year for under 2-year stay)
Academic records and certificates
Application form and processing fee payment (€350 online / €450 on paper)

✅ Book a Biometric Appointment

Schedule a visit to your nearest Finnish Embassy or VFS center for identity verification and biometrics.

✅ Await Processing

Processing time is typically 1–2 months, depending on your location and the season. Track your application via the Enter Finland portal.

🛬 After Arrival in Finland

🔹 Register Your Address

Report your address to the Finnish Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV) within 1 week of arrival.

🔹 Residence Card

Collect your residence permit card at the designated authority after arriving.

🔹 Finnish ID Number

You will be issued a Finnish personal identity code (important for accessing public services, opening a bank account, etc.).

🔁 Renewals & Extensions

If your studies are extended, apply to renew your residence permit before the current one expires. Apply online via Enter Finland and ensure you have updated documentation.

💡 Important Tips for Students

📆 Apply Early: Begin the process 3–4 months before your course starts
💳 Financial Proof: Required even if tuition is waived—bank statements, sponsorships, or scholarship letters are accepted
🩺 Health Insurance: Mandatory; choose a plan that meets coverage minimums and duration requirements
💼 Work Rights: Students can work 30 hours/week during the semester and full-time during holidays
👨‍👩‍👧 Family Members: Spouse and children can apply for residence permits under family reunification rules

📑 Student Residence Permit Checklist

✅ Passport (valid for entire stay)
✅ Biometric passport photos
✅ University admission letter
✅ Proof of accommodation in Finland
✅ Financial proof (~€560/month)
✅ Health insurance documents
✅ Academic transcripts and certificates
✅ Paid tuition receipt (if applicable)
✅ Completed application (Enter Finland portal)
✅ Biometric appointment confirmation

📩 Need Visa Assistance?

At Impel Overseas Consultants, we guide you through every step:

✔️ Personalized document checklist
✔️ Online application support via Enter Finland
✔️ Visa interview & biometrics preparation
✔️ Pre-departure and post-arrival guidance

🎓 Plan your academic future in Finland with confidence.
Contact us today for seamless visa assistance and expert counselling. 🇫🇮🛂