Finland Visa
Finland, nestled in the Northern part of Europe and sharing borders with Russia, Sweden, Norway, and the Baltic Sea, became a part of the Schengen Area in 1996. This means that if you’re from one of the countries in the Schengen Area, you don’t need a visa to visit Finland. However, if you’re from a non-Schengen country without a visa agreement, you’ll need a Finland visa to enter and stay in the country for a fixed period. Let’s dive into the specifics of Finland visas, including requirements, types of visas, costs, and the application process.
Do I Need a Visa for Finland?
You don’t need a visa to visit Finland if:
- You’re a resident of a Schengen Area, EEA/EU, or any country with a visa agreement with Finland.
However, some visitors from countries without a visa agreement will need to apply for a Schengen visa. This requirement depends on the purpose, duration, and your profile. It’s best to check with your local Finnish embassy for clarification. Remember that visa-free visitors can stay in Finland for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Requirements for a Finland Visa
When applying for a Finland visa, you’ll need the following:
- Passport/Travel Document: A valid passport issued within the last ten years, valid for three months after returning from Finland.
- Identity Picture: A recent photo meeting Schengen visa photo guidelines.
- Finland Visa Application Form: Download, print, and fill out the form, then attach it to your documents.
- Schengen Travel Insurance: Coverage of at least €30,000 for medical expenses and emergencies.
- Invitation Letter: If invited by a friend or family member, include their information and relationship with you.
- Sufficient Financial Means: You need at least €30 per day to support yourself during the trip.
- Evidence of a Place to Stay: Provide hotel bookings, rental agreements, or Airbnb reservations.
- Travel Itinerary: Detailed travel plan, including departure and return dates.
- Copies of Previous Schengen Visas: If applicable, include them.
- Cover Letter: Explain the reasons for your visit and how long you plan to stay.
- Civil Status Documents: Birth certificates, marriage licenses, divorce licenses, or adoption papers.
- Evidence of Legal Stay: Proof of your legal residence in your current country.
For minors, you need:
- Permission from a legal guardian if the minor is traveling alone or with one parent.
- Birth certificate.
The Finnish embassy reserves the right to ask for additional documents.
Types of Finland Visas
Finland offers various visa types depending on your purpose of visit:
- Finland Tourist Visa: For tourists who want to explore Finland. Valid for three months within a six-month period.
- Finland Business Visa: For business visits.
- Finland Transit Visa: For travelers transiting through Finland.
- Finland Seasonal Work Visa: A 90-day permit for seasonal work.
- Long-Term Visa: If you plan to stay for more than 90 days. This includes family, student, and work visas.
How to Apply for a Finland Visa?
Follow these steps to apply for a Finland visa:
- Find Your Local Finnish Mission: Locate the nearest Finnish embassy or consulate where you’ll apply for your visa.
- Fill Out Your Visa Application Form: Download and fill out the form with accurate information.
- Prepare Your Documents: Translate and legalize any documents not in Finnish, Swedish, or English with an apostille stamp.
- Make an Appointment: Schedule an appointment with the embassy to submit your application.
- Submit Your Documents: Bring all required documents to the appointment.
- Prepare for an Interview: You might be asked to explain your reasons for visiting Finland.
Finland Visa Costs
Visa fees for Finland vary based on age and the type of visa:
- Adults: €80 for a Schengen visa.
- Children (6-11 years): €40.
- Children (under 6 years): Free.
- Fast-Tracked Visa: €70.
The Finland visa fee for certain countries is €35, including Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia, and Ukraine. Diplomatic passport holders and minors traveling for educational purposes are exempt from fees. Note that visa fees are non-refundable in case of rejection.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Finland Visa?
It takes 15 days to process a Finland visa application. You can apply up to six months in advance, but it’s recommended to do so at least 15 days before your departure.
Reasons for Finnish Visa Application Denial
A Finnish visa application can be denied for several reasons:
- Your travel documents are expired or will expire during your stay.
- You didn’t clearly state the reason for your visit.
- You lack the financial means to support yourself in Finland.
- You’re banned from returning to your country or entering the Schengen Area.
- The embassy suspects you won’t return after your visa expires.
What Can I Do If My Finland Visa Is Denied?
If your visa application is denied, you can appeal against the decision. The instructions for appealing should be included in your rejection letter. You can file a request for review from the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs within 30 days of receiving the denial notice, with a €170 fee. If you wish to appeal against the Ministry’s decision, you can request another review from the Helsinki Administrative Court for €260. You can also reapply for another visa if your application was denied.
How Long Can I Stay With a Finland Visa?
A Schengen Finland visa allows a stay of three months within a six-month period. You can travel to other Schengen countries, but the time spent in other countries also counts towards your 90-day limit.
Can I Extend a Finland Visa?
Yes, but only in specific cases such as force majeure (natural disasters, political situations in your home country), serious personal reasons, or unexpected illnesses. Extensions aren’t granted for extending your stay for non-urgent reasons.
Can I Use My Finland Visa to Travel to Other Countries?
Yes, a Finland visa allows travel within the Schengen Area. Just remember that the days you spend in other Schengen countries count towards your 90-day limit.
This guide should give you a comprehensive overview of Finland visas and the application process. Follow these steps and tips for a smooth visa application experience. Good luck with your travels to Finland!