Finland is considered to be the happiest and one of the most successful countries. The country often attracts people with a high standard of living. Find out more about how to move to Finland for permanent residence and what you need to apply for a temporary residence permit

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Finland, the country of a thousand lakes, is often in the spotlight of potential immigrants. Foreigners are attracted by the stability of the local economy, advanced healthcare, a well-built education system, incredible nature, and high levels of happiness. Here's what foreigners need to move to the country.

How to move to Finland for permanent residence?

To obtain a residence permit that allows foreigners to reside in Finland on a permanent basis, you need to go through three stages 

- obtain a temporary residence permit (TRP) for 12 months

- extend its validity period;

- apply for permanent residence 4 years after the first residence permit.

There are two types of primary residence permit in Finland:

- Temporary (type B) - issued to students and those who come for seasonal work for a period of 6 months to 2 years. It can be extended for up to six months;

- continuous (type A) - depending on the grounds for obtaining it, it is issued for a period of 1 to 4 years. This type of residence permit entitles immigrants to enjoy the social package provided for citizens of the country.

Permanent residence (permanent residence, type P) is available to foreigners who have been residing in Finland with a continuous residence permit for at least 4 years. 

What do I need to apply for a temporary residence permit in Finland?

The easiest and most convenient reason to move to Finland is to buy an existing business or to find a job in the country. However, there are other possibilities: 

- studying at local universities;

- family reunification or marriage;

- re-immigration (suitable for those with Finnish roots);

In addition, since June 2022, Finland has simplified the requirements for obtaining a residence permit for foreign specialists and startups. The simplified procedure provides for a two-week period for consideration of the application (while the standard statutory period is six months). 

Benefits of living in Finland

Finland will be ideal for those who dream of a quiet, peaceful life in a successful European country. Introverts and adherents of the cottage-country lifestyle will feel especially good among the Finns, because

- there are few people in cities, many one-story buildings and parks;

- beautiful nature, care for the environment and ecology;

- the main value of the locals is life, not survival, so there is no problem of laboriousness, overwork and the need to be constantly at the workplace; 

- free healthcare and education;

- no corruption and public services at a click away: almost everything can be done online;

- most of the country's population speaks English well.

What difficulties can immigrants face in Finland?

Moving to Finland may require the famous Finnish equanimity, as expats will face specific aspects of living in the country. For example: 

- the need to learn Finnish or Swedish. To obtain permanent residence, you will need to provide a certificate confirming language proficiency at a level not lower than B1 (it is possible to pass the exam with Finnish-Swedish sign language);

- the need for a personal car for those who do not live in the capital: public transportation is developed only in Helsinki;

- high taxes;

- lack of high salaries: wages here allow you to live comfortably, but you will definitely not be able to get rich in Finland;

- lack of active city life and entertainment.

Moreover, foreigners are often unprepared for the rather harsh climate, the phlegmatic and unhurried nature of the locals, and the high cost of traveling in Europe due to Finland's remoteness from other countries.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in Finland;

Legal advice on business and tourism in Finland;

Travel and health insurance for foreigners in Finland;

Legal advice on immigration and education in Finland;

Insurance for international students in Finland.