Finland has implemented new policies in 2024 to streamline its work visa process, making it more accessible for international professionals in 2025.
These changes aim to attract skilled workers in sectors like technology, healthcare, and green energy, contributing to Finland’s thriving economy.
The updates include faster processing times, improved digital platforms, and expanded family reunification options.
According to the DAAD Scholarship, Finland’s efforts to simplify its work visa procedures are part of a broader strategy to remain competitive in the global talent market. These policy updates will help international workers navigate the visa process more efficiently.
Key changes to Finland’s work visa process for 2025
The new policies introduced in 2024 make Finland an appealing destination for skilled professionals. Key updates include reduced processing times for most work visas, with most applications now processed in 2–4 months.
Digital platforms, such as the Enter Finland portal, allow applicants to submit documents online, streamlining the process. Additionally, Finland has expanded family reunification options, enabling spouses and children of visa holders to apply for residence permits more easily.
Planning your application: timing and potential delays
Applicants should be aware of potential delays due to public holidays and peak vacation periods. According to reports, Finnish government offices close or operate with limited staff during the New Year (January 2025) and Christmas (December 2024) holidays, as well as throughout the summer months (July and August 2025).
Applicants are advised to submit their applications well in advance to avoid processing delays during these times.
Steps to apply for a Finnish work visa
1. Research in-demand occupations: Target sectors that Finland prioritizes, such as AI, technology, healthcare, engineering, green energy, and tourism. Companies in these fields are more likely to sponsor work visas.
2. Confirm your eligibility: Ensure you meet the required criteria, which includes having a job offer from a Finnish employer, relevant qualifications, proof of sufficient financial resources (€6,000 for three months), and health insurance.
3. Choose the right visa type: Finland offers several work visa types depending on the nature of employment. The most common types are for regular employees, specialists in high-demand fields like tech, entrepreneurs, researchers, and seasonal workers.
4. Prepare your application: Gather all necessary documents, including a valid passport, job offer, proof of qualifications, health insurance, and proof of financial resources. Submitting scanned copies of your documents through the Enter Finland platform can speed up the process.
5. Submit your application: Applications can be submitted online or in person at a Finnish embassy. The application fee is €495 for online submissions and €695 for paper submissions.
6. Consider a personal integration plan: Although not mandatory, including a personal integration plan may strengthen your application. This can demonstrate your commitment to learning Finnish or Swedish and integrating into Finnish society.
Family reunification and work visas
According to reports, in 2024, Finland introduced changes to its family reunification policy, making it easier for the families of skilled workers to join them in Finland. Spouses and children can now apply for residence permits alongside the primary applicant, and spouses are often allowed to work without additional permits.
These changes aim to improve the overall appeal of working in Finland for international professionals with families.
For more information and to apply for a Finnish work visa, visit the official portal.