Are you interested in obtaining a Finland student visa to enter the country This article will help you learn about its requirements, Finland Student Visa exemptions, validity, fees, and more.Finland is in northern Europe and shares borders with Russia, Sweden, Norway, and the Gulf of Bothnia. Residents of Finland communicate in Finnish, Swedish, Sámi, Karelian, and Finnish Kalo. Finland has a total of 338,455 km2 and a population of 5,536,146 as of 2020. Finland is undeniably prosperous, with superior infrastructures, a social welfare system, hospitable citizens, and several institutions offering exceptional academic programmed. The best universities in Finland include the University of Helsinki, Aalto University, the University of Turku, the University of Oulu, the University of Tampere, and the University of Eastern Finland. Several reasons exist for enrolling at a Finnish educational institution. Continue reading to investigate further.
Motives for Studying in Finland
These are some considerations for enrolling at an educational institution in Finland.
- The unique educational system of Finland has attracted over 14,000 international students from around the world.
- Finland offers numerous work alternatives. Hence, graduates of Finnish educational institutions can find employment rapidly. International students enrolled in institutions in Finland are
- permitted to work up to 25 hours per week.
- The Republic of Finland’s healthcare system is unusual.
- Universities in Finland charge reduced tuition rates ranging between €6,000 and €19,000. Also available to eligible international students are scholarships.
- After four (4) years, Finland’s educational institution’s graduates are eligible to become permanent residents.
- You will receive a post-study visa that allows you to seek employment within one year of graduation.
There are several winter and summertime attractions in the Republic of Finland. The Oy Levi Ski Resort, Santa Claus Village, Nuuksio National Park, Senate Square, the Sibelius Monument, and the National Museum of Finland are among these.
What is a Student Visa for Finland
A Finnish Student Visa is an official document that enables international students to stay in Finland for enrollment in a Finland-based educational institution. The visa is typically valid for the student’s studies in Finland.
Exemptions for Finland Student Visa
A few groups of individuals are exempt from obtaining a Finland Student Visa and may study in the nation for up to three months without one. Afterwards, though, they must register as a temporary resident if they intend to remain longer.
The following individuals are exempt from obtaining a student visa for the Republic of Finland
Citizens of Schengen Area, EU, and EEA Member States Citizens of the United States, New Zealand, Australia, San Marino, Monaco, Japan, Andorra, and Vatican City
Finland Application Cost for Student Visa international students applying for a Finland Student Visa must pay an application fee in person or online. Whether you apply for your Finland student visa on paper or online determines whether you must pay a charge, as detailed below.
- Finland Student Visa application on paper: €450
- Finland Student Visa Application Online: €350
- Finland Student Visa Processing Time
- A Finnish diplomatic mission processes student visa applications between one and three months. Yet, processing may be delayed if your application needs to be completed.
Student Visa Eligibility Requirements for Finland
The following requirements must be met to qualify for a student visa to Finland.
- You must have already applied to a university in Finland and obtained an acceptance letter from the institution.
- No Schengen country may have imposed a travel ban on you. Examine the list of Schengen countries.
- You may not pose any threat to Finland’s citizens or the country as a whole.
- Lastly, you must not have a criminal record and not have been convicted in your home country.
Finland Student Visa Requirements
When applying for a student visa, you must submit the following documents to the Finland embassy or consulate in your home country.
- A passport that is valid for the duration of your studies in Finland
One recent image of passport size
A copy of the passport’s information page
Evidence of enrollment at a university in Finland. The letter of acceptance issued to you by the university will serve as evidence.
While enrolled in school in Finland, you are required to obtain health insurance that covers all potential medical concerns.
Proof of payment of tuition fees or evidence of funds, such as a bank statement with a minimum of €560 per month for each intended stay in Finland. - Documentation of fully or partially supported scholarship (only if you have one)
Evidence of civil status This is unquestionably supported by documents such as birth certificates, adoption papers, marriage certificates, divorce decree or certificates, etc.
Prior academic accomplishments (if applicable)
How to Get a Student Visa for Finland
- Obtain a letter of admission from an educational institution in Finland
- Complete the Student Visa Application for Finland
- Schedule a meeting with a Finnish diplomatic mission
- Visit the diplomatic embassy to finalize your visa application.
- Wait for the decision of the Finnish mission.
- Go to Finland and start your studies.
- Step 1: Get an acceptance letter from an educational institution in Finland
- The first step in obtaining a Finnish student visa is to apply for admission to an accredited institution in Finland. If accepted, you will get a letter of acceptance from the school.
- Make sure to apply to a school whose tuition rates you can afford and whose prerequisites you can meet.
Complete the Student Visa Application for Finland
Next, you must submit an online application for a Finland Student Visa. This needs the creation of an account. In addition, you must compile any supporting documents and prepare them for submission alongside the application form. Submitting your visa application at an embassy or consulate in your home country is also permissible. Schedule a meeting with a Finnish diplomatic mission Appointment scheduling with the Finnish embassy or consulate is the third of six stages required to obtain a Finland student visa. The most systematic method for doing so is via a telephone call. Visit the diplomatic embassy to finalize your visa application. The fourth stage in acquiring a student visa for Finland is to visit the diplomatic mission for verification, document submission, and payment of the application cost. Providing your biometrics during your visit to the embassy or consulate is equally crucial. Also, you must submit all supporting documentation and pay the visa cost at the embassy or consulate. Moreover, an interview with a consular authority may be required. Wait for the decision of the Finnish mission.
After then, you must be patient while the Finnish diplomatic mission decides on your application for a student visa. The processing time can vary but is often no longer than three months. Go to Finland and start your studies there. Upon approval of your visa application, you can retrieve your passport from the embassy or consulate. Then, you can book a flight to Finland for your studies abroad. Visa validity for Finland students The standard validity duration for a Finnish student visa is two years. However, remember that if your academic program is short-term, your access will be limited to up to two years.nYet, you can easily extend the validity of your student visa before it expires.
Commonly Requested Information (FAQs)
Can international students study in Finland?
Foreigners are permitted to study in the Republic of Finland. You must apply to a Finnish educational institution to begin the application procedure.
Is obtaining a student visa for Finland simple
Yeah, the Finland Student Visa application process is relatively straightforward.
What is the acceptance rate for student visas to Finland?
The acceptance rate for Finland student visas is approximately 93%.
Can I obtain permanent residency in Finland after completing my studies?
Yes, you are granted permanent residency in Finland upon completion of your studies in the nation. To be eligible, you must have lived in Finland for at least four (4) years.
Finland: Is it costly for international students?
Indeed, the cost of living in Finland for international students is relatively high but lower than in other European countries. The monthly cost of living in Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is between €900 and €1,000. This includes food, lodging, and transportation. As an international student, you must earn sufficient cash to study in Finland.
Conclusion
Enrolling in a Finnish educational institution is a wise choice because they provide affordable and high-quality study programmes. The visa application process for students is likewise simple and uncomplicated. Suppose you are considering whether or not to enroll in a Finnish school. In this scenario, you are unquestionably making a career-enhancing decision.