How To Get Finland Student Visa | Step-by-Step Guide

You want to get a Finland Student Visa, that's why you're here. Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience, opening doors to new opportunities and broadening horizons. If you're considering Finland as your destination for higher education, you're on the right track!

With its world-class universities, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Finland offers an exceptional academic experience. To make your dream a reality, understanding the process of obtaining a Finland Student Visa is crucial.

Finland is a great place to study with many ‘International Students friendly' Universities and colleges. But before applying and securing admission to a Finnish higher Institution, it is pertinent to have a complete understanding of the whole process.

One of these processes is procuring a Finland Student Visa, undertaken after securing admission into your Finland school of choice.

I tell you if you really need to study in Finland and you want to get a Finland Student visa, this post is just for you.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the steps, requirements, and everything you need to know about securing your Finland Student Visa.

The iParrot Team has documented easy step-by-step procedures to get a Finland Student Visa and other necessary information that I believe will help you in applying.

So, relax, and let's get started.

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Available Types of Student Visa in Finland

Any student who wants to study in Finland as an international student will require either a student visa or a student residence permit.

These are the two types of Finland student Visas.

1. A Finland student visa is a temporary, short-term permit issued to a foreign student who wants to stay and study in Finland for a maximum of 90 days (3 months). This is suitable for foreign students who plan to take a short-term language course in Finland or want to appear in an entrance examination.
2. A Finland student residence permit is issued to a foreign student to wants to stay and study in Finland for more than 90 days (3 months). Normally, Finland's student residence permits are granted one year at a time. This is suitable for those foreign students who have been accepted into full-term degree courses in Finland.

However, citizens of the Nordic countries (Sweden, Norway, Iceland, and Denmark) have the right to live and study in Finland without applying for a residence permit.

However, they will still have to register with the local authorities, especially if their degree takes more than 90 days.

Usually, the student residence permit is valid for one year, so, if you intend to stay longer, you will have to apply for an extension at the local Police station.

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What are the Eligibility Criteria for a Finland Student Visa or Residence Permit?

To be eligible for a Finland Student Visa, you must fulfill the following conditions to qualify for Finland Student Visa Requirements or Residence Permit:

• Provide the official acceptance letter issued by your Finnish higher institution of choice.
• A valid passport must have a validity that exceeds the duration of the visa or residence permit you are applying for by at least 3 months. Also, this passport must have been issued within the previous 10 years.
• A copy of your completed and signed application form.
• Provide proof of your financial ability, enough to support you financially during your entire period of study in Finland, and cater to your return transportation. A student's living cost in Finland is EUR 560 per month. This translates to a minimum of EUR 6720 per year.
• Provide a recent statement of your bank's financial situation showing you have at least EUR 6720 in your bank account. Students undertaking degree courses in Finland must have funds for one year at a time, while Exchange Students must have funds for the entire duration of their stay in Finland. Suppose you do not have the amount mentioned above in your account. In that case, you must provide written evidence of having received a stipend or scholarship or have been selected for benefits to be provided by your educational institute.
• Provide proof of obtaining valid health and medical insurance covering your stay in Finland.
• Be in good physical and mental health and free from any contagious disease.
• I have no criminal record.
• have not been previously refused entry into Finland.
• Intend to leave Finland at the end of your authorized stay

Please Note: Bank statements of the applicant’s parents or a shared or joint account will not be accepted for a Finland student visa or residence permit.

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How to Acquire a Finland Student Residence Permit

This is a step-by-step procedure, so make sure to follow suit till the end. Also, note that you can apply for a residence permit at the embassy or representative office in your country.

You can also apply online, but you will still need to visit the local embassy to verify your identity and submit copies of other documents you might need during the application process.

If your home country doesn't have a Finland embassy, you can always find the country's representatives using the link.

It's very important that you apply for a student residence permit before you arrive in Finland.

Here are the necessary steps to getting a Finland Student Visa Requirements and Procedures:

Step 1. Get the residence permit application form

Your first step is to obtain the residence permit application form here using this link. It is downloadable, so go ahead and get it now.

Step 2. Fill up the residence permit application form

Fill out the details required in the residence permit application form carefully.

After filling, you can submit it electronically here or take a printed copy to the Finland Embassy or Consulate in your home country for submission.

Step 3. Gather the required documents for the residence permit application

Make a checklist of the documents to be submitted along with your application form at the Finland Embassy or Consulate.

Gather all the documents and keep them ready for submission.

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Step 4. Provide a photograph for your residence permit application

A recent color photograph is required for the residence permit application. Ensure your selected photograph matches or corresponds to all the specifications required for residence permit photographs.

Ensure that your photograph is not more than 6 months old. It is advisable to take a new photograph.

Step 5. Check the residence permit application fee

Confirm the fees required for processing your residence permit application and keep it ready along with your visa application form.

The fee for electronic submission is less than that charged for direct submission at the Finland embassy or consulate.

Step 6. Submit your residence permit application form

Gather all the completed documents in the previous steps and submit them at the Finland Embassy or Consulate nearest to you.

Make sure to submit your application during office hours and in person.

NOTE:  Even if you have submitted your application electronically, you will have still to visit the Finland Embassy or Consulate nearest to you to verify your identity and present the original copies of the documents needed for the application to be processed.

A Finland student residence permit application cannot be processed until the applicant visits the embassy, regardless of whether it has been submitted electronically or at the embassy.

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Step 7. Provide your biometric data

You will be requested to provide your biometric data at the Finnish Embassy or Consulate. This is personal data. The Embassy officials will take your fingerprints.

Also, this step is applicable to all applicants, regardless of whether they have submitted their residence permit application electronically or in person at the embassy.

Step 8. Pay the required residence permit application fee

Check with the Finland Embassy or Consulate regarding the current processing fee for the residence permit and the mode of payment they accept, then make your payment.

In the case of the electronic application, the processing fee will be charged via the electronic service.

Step 9. Collect your residence permit card

After your residence permit is issued, you will be notified regarding the issuance. You can collect your residence permit card in person or send it to you.

Required Fees for Finland Residence Permits for Students

• Fees for Finland Residence Permit for Studies (for application on paper) – EUR 330
• Fees for Finland Residence Permit for Studies (for electronic application) – EUR 300

Note:

• Your application fee will not be refunded if your application for a residence permit is refused or rejected for any reason.
• The visa application fee is subject to change at any time.

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FAQs about Finland Student Visa

Conclusion

Embarking on a journey of international education in Finland is an exciting prospect.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can navigate the process of obtaining a Finland Student Visa with confidence.

Remember to start your preparations early, gather all necessary documents, and stay informed about the latest visa requirements.

Studying in Finland will not only provide you with a quality education but also a chance to immerse yourself in a unique culture and create lasting memories.

Remember, your dream of studying in Finland is within reach. Seize the opportunity and take the first step towards a brighter future!

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