Residence permit for studies
Finland
Last updated: December 24, 2025
Entire study period
$600-$750
30 days
Medium
About this Visa
Finland offers a student residence permit for international students who want to study at Finnish universities or vocational schools. You can stay for your entire study period—typically 3-4 years. This visa is for people who aren't from EU or EEA countries. If you're from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you don't need this visa. The main benefit is that you can legally stay, work part-time, and access Finland's education system. After graduation, you can look for a job and potentially stay permanently.
Key Benefits
- Work 30 hours per week while studying (full-time during holidays)
- Bring spouse and children with residence permits
- Travel freely across Europe (31 Schengen countries)
- Access emergency healthcare
- 2-year job search period after graduation
- Path to permanent residency after 4-6 years
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be accepted to Finnish university or vocational school
- Must speak English, Finnish, or Swedish at required program level
- Must have health insurance
- No serious criminal record
- Cannot have been denied residence permit in past 3 months
Financial Requirement
Must have €800 per month ($940) in bank account. For 4-year degree: €9,600 ($11,283) minimum. If school provides free housing, only €400/month required.
Documents
- Valid passport6+ months validity after arrival
- Letter of acceptanceFrom Finnish university or vocational school
- Bank statementShowing €9,600+ available funds
- Health insurance certificatePrivate insurance required
- Passport-sized photoMeets standard requirements
- Proof of tuition paymentEvidence you can pay tuition fees
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.