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A Comprehensive Guide to Finland Study Visa
Finland is quickly becoming one of the most popular study destinations for international students. With world-class universities, innovative research opportunities, and a high quality of life, Finland has a lot to offer students from abroad. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about studying in Finland as an international student.
Quick Facts About Country
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Northern Europe, one of the Nordic countries |
| Capital | Helsinki |
| Largest City | Helsinki |
| Shares Borders with | - Sweden to Northwest |
| - Norway to the North | |
| - Russia to the East | |
| - Estonia to the South | |
| Official Language | Finnish and Swedish |
| Climate | Light-filled Summer, Colour-drenched Autumn, Frost-glazed Winter, Bloom-covered Spring |
| Government | Unitary Parliamentary Republic |
| Area | 338,424 km2 (130,666 sq mi) |
| Distance from India | 9471 km, approximately 20h 52m |
| Population | Around 5.5 million |
| Time Zone | UTC+2 (EET), Summer (DST) UTC+3 (EEST) |
| Currency | Euro since 1999 (initially Finnish Mark) |
| Conversion | 1 Euro = 90.84 INR |
| GDP Per Capita | $46,342 |
| Popular Cities and Campuses | Vantaa, Espoo, Vaasa, Oulu, Rauma, Turku (former capital and second-largest city), Tampere , Rovaniemi (home of Santa Claus) |
Navigating the Finland Study Visa
- Citizens from non-EU/EEA countries will need to obtain a residence permit for studies in order to study in Finland for longer than 3 months.
- The application process takes about 1-3 months and you will need acceptance from a Finnish educational institution before applying. Some of the requirements include:
- Proof of acceptance from an approved Finnish educational institution
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover living and tuition expenses
- Valid passport
- Proof of comprehensive health insurance
Make sure to start the visa process well in advance of your studies! The application can be submitted online or by visiting your nearest Finnish embassy.
Key Facts and Benefits to Study in Finland
- Over 20,000 international students study in Finland each year.
- Universities offer plenty of Bachelor's and Master's degrees fully taught in English.
- Finland ranks #1 in the world for the availability of high-quality tertiary education.
- Finnish universities are world-class in technology, IT, forestry, and life sciences fields.
- Students can work part-time during studies and full-time during holidays.
Eligibility Criteria for Studying in Finland
To be eligible to study in Finland as an international student, you will need:
- To be aged 18 or over.
- To have completed your prior degree with good grades.
For Bachelors
- 12 years of Education
- Percentage- 55 % above
Duration 3 to 4 years
For Masters
- Bachelors 3-4 years
- Percentage- 55 % above
Duration 1 to 2 years
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
- Acceptance from an approved Finnish university.
- Proof of comprehensive health insurance.
- To meet any English or Finnish language requirements set by the university.
Make sure to carefully review and meet the eligibility criteria for any programs you plan to apply for.
Top Universities in Finland for International Students
Finland has many high-quality universities to choose from. Here are some of the top options for international students:
- University of Helsinki - The highest ranked university in Finland, offering degrees in over 150 subjects.
- Aalto University - Located in Helsinki, highly ranked for technology and business degrees.
- University of Turku - Based in Turku, strong in law, economics, and marine science programs.
- University of Oulu - Located in northern Finland, excellent for technology and ICT degrees.
- University of Tampere - Known for social sciences, public health and IT degrees, based in Tampere.
- University of Jyväskylä - Focused on humanities, education and sport science in the lake district city of Jyväskylä.
Be sure to research universities fully to find the best fit for your academic interests and career goals.
Intakes to Study in Finland
The main intakes for degree programs in Finland are
| Intake Period | Start Semester |
|---|---|
| August-September | Fall Semester |
| January | Spring Semester |
- However, some universities like University of Helsinki have 3 intake periods in August, January, and September.
- For exchange studies, you can normally apply to start in the Fall, Spring or even Summer sessions.
- Each university will have its own application deadlines so check carefully. Popular programs can fill up quickly!
Application Process for Finland Study Visa
If you are a non-EU/EEA student, you will need to get a residence permit for studies from the Finnish Immigration Service before you can study in Finland.
Here is the step-by-step process:
- Step 1. Research universities and degree programs in Finland to find the right fit.
- Step 2. Apply to your chosen university/universities and ensure you meet all academic and language requirements.
- Step 3. After receiving your acceptance letter, gather all required documents for the study permit.
- Step 4. Tuition Fee to be paid in University -Full Tuition Fee Before Visa
If University allows semester wise then Balance Tuition Fee has to be shown with the living expenses.
If you have to pay the tuition fee for the first year after arriving in Finland, you need to attach documentation of the necessary means for paying the tuition fee. You cannot use means reserved for your support to pay the tuition fee.
- Step 5. Complete the study permit application form online and book an appointment at your nearest Finland embassy.
- Step 6. Attend your appointment and submit your original documents, application fee, and biometrics.
- Step 7. Wait for 1-3 months for a decision on your study permit. Check your application status online.
- Step 8. Once approved, make arrangements to arrive in Finland before your studies start!
Different Types of Finnish Visas
About Visa Type & Categories:
- Student permit - For degree students completing a Bachelor's, Master's or PhD
program at a Finnish university.
We apply for Residence Permit based upon the study offer received from Finnish University.
- The Residence Permit can be granted for the entire duration of studies.
- For Degree Students applying in higher education institutions, can get a continuous A Type Visa.
- For Other studies you can get a temporary B type Visa.
- Trainee permit - For internships, volunteer programs, sports or educational exchanges.
- Work permit - For skilled workers, specialists, researchers, investors, entrepreneurs, and more.
- Family reunification permit - For family members of Finnish or EU citizens living in Finland.
- Permanent residence permit - For non-EU citizens after 4+ years of living in Finland.
Requirements Of Finnish Study Visa
Requirement for Student Study Visa:
- Unconditional acceptance letter from a Finnish educational institution
- Tuition Fees:
- Evidence of Paid tuition fee
- Enough money in your account
- Scholarship (if any)
- Health Insurance:
- If your studies last less than a year. You need to provide proof that your insurance is valid throughout your intended stay
- If your studies last longer than a year then it is enough to show that your insurance is valid for one year from the day of your intended arrival.
- If your studies take at least two years, Insurance must cover pharmaceutical expenses up to 40,000 Euros.
- If your studies take less than two years, Insurance must cover medical expenses up to 120,000 Euros.
- You do not need private insurance if you have a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global health Insurance card (GHIC) or KELA Card.
- Funds for Main Applicant:
- 560 Euros per month and 6720 Euros per year, In Indian INR approx. 6.5 -7.0 Lakhs on higher side
- The amount has to be in the main applicant's account with the Origin of Funds and at least 6 months old funds.
- If the funds are fresh then source of fund would also be required
- Valid passport, at least 60 days beyond your planned studies
- Documents supporting your academic qualifications
- Biometric data collected as part of the application process
- Processing fee of €300-500 depending on nationality
Make sure you meet all the requirements before submitting your study permit application!
Transitioning to Permanent Residence in Finland
Pathways to Permanent Residence
Here is an overview:
- You can stay and search for a job for up to 1 year after finishing your studies, without needing a new permit.
- If you find qualified employment within that year, you can apply for a new residence permit as a worker.
- After 4 years of continual residence with work permits, you become eligible for permanent residence.
- With permanent residence, you have access to all education and social services, can work without restrictions, and can apply for Finnish citizenship.
Requirements for Permanent Residence
You can apply for a residence permit in Finland: • If you have a job, a study place or a family member in Finland.
- If you have lived for an uninterrupted period of 4 years with a continuous residence permit (an A Permit), you need to have resided in Finland for at least 2 years during the past 4 years
- Once you obtain full-time employment, you can go ahead and apply for a work-based residence permit.
work-based residence permits are a foot in the door towards permanent residency After you've worked in Finland for four consecutive years, you'll become eligible for a permanent residence permit.
Securing an Finland Work Permit while Studying
International students have some great options when it comes to working during or after their degree program:
- During your studies, you can work up to 30 hours a week with your student residence permit.
- You can work full-time during summer and winter holidays on a student permit.
- After graduation, you get a 2 year window to find employment before needing a new work permit.
- Startups and tech companies are welcoming to international graduates and may sponsor work permits.
- If you studied in Finnish or Swedish, you'll have an advantage for local job opportunities.
Check if you qualify for the ""Look for Work"" scheme after graduating to extend your job search time.
Understanding Work Permit Restrictions and Conditions
- Main applicant up to 30 hours a week during all stay
- Spouse- can work full time
Cost of Studying in Finland
Finland offers high quality education and living standards at a reasonable cost compared to many other countries. Here are some typical costs:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
| Tuition Fees | €0-15,000 per year (depending on the program) |
| Rent | €300-600 per month (depending on location) |
| Food | €200-300 per month (for home cooking) |
| Public Transportation | €30-60 per month (for a student pass) |
| Health Insurance | €80-150 per month (depending on coverage) |
| Books, Entertainment, etc. | €150-300 per month |
| Total Budget | €800-1400 per month (as a student) |
There are also scholarships and part-time work opportunities to help offset costs.
Post-study Work Opportunities in Finland
Post Study Work Permit:2-year post-study visa to cover your stay while you search for a job.
Finland actively tries to retain international students to help fill skills shortages in many occupations. Here are some top options:
- Start-up visa - 1 year visa to launch an innovative startup in Finland after graduating.
- Career change to work visa - For finding a qualified job relevant to your degree within 1 year.
- Skilled worker visa - For graduates who have secured a job offer in a skilled profession.
- Entrepreneur or investor visa - For graduates wanting to start a business or invest in Finland.
- Work Holiday Visa - 1 year visa for temporary work, available for some nationalities.
Finland is an excellent choice for international students looking for world-class education, research opportunities, and a high quality of life. With tuition-free programs at globally ranked universities, innovative tech and research centers, and a welcoming environment for immigrants - study in Finland can launch your global career or transition to permanent residence in the Nordic country.