Do you plan to study in Finland? Then, you are making the right choice. Finland is one of the best countries to live, study, and work. Its workers earn around $4,207 monthly, which is nearly three times higher than the minimum national wage in the United States. Whether you want to relocate or work in Finland, the study route is the easiest pathway to enter Finland. In this article, we will walk you through how to apply for a Finland Student Visa like a pro.
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Who needs a Finnish Student Visa?
A Finnish Study Visa is a type of visa that authorizes international students to stay in Finland for enrollment in a Finland-based educational institution. The visa is usually valid for the student’s study duration in Finland.
Exemptions for Finland Study Visa
A few categories of persons do not need to apply for a Finnish Student Visa and can stay to study in the country for up to three months. After that, however, they have to register as a temporary resident, supposing they need to stay longer.
The following persons have exemptions for a student visa to the Republic of Finland.
- Citizens of countries in the Schengen Area, the EU or EEA Member States
- Nationals of the United States, New Zealand, Australia, San Marino, Monaco, Japan, Andorra, and Vatican City
Why study in Finland?
Is studying in Finland worth it? Of course, Finland is one of the world’s best study destionations, with many accredited universities that charge reasonable fees.
Here are some reasons to consider studying in Finland:
- Finland’s unique education system attracts more than 14,000 international students yearly.
- Finland is a prosperous country with superb infrastructures and a social welfare system, welcoming locals, and several institutions offering first-rate academic programs. Some of the top universities in Finland include the University of Helsinki, Aalto University, the University of Turku, the University of Oulu, the University of Tampere, and the University of Eastern Finland.
- There are vast employment opportunities in Finland. Thus, graduates of Finnish educational institutions can quickly get a job. International students enrolled in Finland institutions can work for up to 25 hours every week.
- The healthcare system in the Republic of Finland is exceptional.
- Finnish universities charge lower tuition fees ranging from €6,000 to €19,000. Scholarships are also available to eligible international students.
- Graduates of Finland’s educational institutions have a pathway to becoming permanent residents after four (4) years of graduation.
- Immediately after graduation, you will receive a post-study visa, which allows you to secure a job within one year.
- Finland has many attractions open in winter and summer. These include Oy Levi Ski Resort, Santa Claus Village, Nuuksio National Park, Senate Square, Sibelius Monument, and the National Museum of Finland.
Duration of a Finland Student Visa
The validity period of a Finnish student visa is typically two years. However, remember that your visa’s duration will not be up to two years, supposing your academic program won’t last long.
However, you can easily extend your student visa’s duration before its expiry.
How much does a Finnish Study Visa cost?
Finland Student Visa fee varies depending on whether you want to apply online or in-person. If you choose to apply for your visa online, expect to pay €100 lower than those who applied on paper.
- Visa online application fee: €350
- Paper application fee: €450
How long does it take to get a Finnish Study Visa?
It takes a Finnish embassies one to three months to process study visa applications. However, the processing can take longer, especially if your visa application was incomplete.
Requirements for Finland Student Visa
Before applying for a visa to study in Finland, ensure you meet the following requirements without any exceptions.
- Must have applied for an academic program at a Finnish higher education institution and received an acceptance letter
- Must not have been banned by any country in the Schengen Area
- Must not pose any form of threat to Finland residents or the country in general
- Have no criminal record and be an ex-convict in your country of origin
Documents requirements for Finnish Student Visa
You will have to submit the following documents to the nearest Finnish embassy or consulate to support your study visa application:
- A passport that would be valid all through your period of study in Finland
- One recent passport-sized photograph
- A copy of your passport’s data page
- Proof of enrollment in a Finland university. You can prove this using the letter of acceptance sent to you by the university.
- Valid health insurance that covers all health conditions you may have in Finland while enrolled in a school.
- Evidence of tuition fee payment or proof of fund document such as a bank statement with a minimum of €560 for each month you would be staying in Finland.
- Proof of fully funded or partially funded scholarship (only if you have one)
- Proof of civil status. This is undoubtedly provable with your birth certificate, adoption documents, marriage certificate, divorce decree or certificate, etc.
- Credentials of previous education (if applicable)
How to apply for a Finland Student Visa
You can take the following steps to get a student visa to Finland.
- Receive an acceptance letter from a Finnish educational institution
- Complete the visa application form
- Arrange for an appointment with a Finnish diplomatic mission
- Visit the diplomatic mission to complete the visa application process
- Wait for the Finnish mission’s decision
- Travel to Finland and begin study
Conclusion
To sum up, enrolling in a Finnish university is a great decision as they offer affordable and high-quality academic programs. The visa application process is hassle-free and straightforward for students. So, if you are considering enrolling in a Finnish school or not, you are making an unmistakable move for your career.
You may also want to learn how to study in Canada from Finland.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can foreigners study in Finland?
Yes, foreigners can study in the Republic of Finland. However, you must apply for a study program in a Finland-based educational institution to begin the process.
Is it easy to get a visa to study in Finland?
Yes, the application process for a Finnish Student Visa is relatively easy to understand.
What is a Finland Student Visa acceptance rate?
The acceptance rate for student visas to Finland is about 93%.
Can I get PR in Finland after my study?
Yes, you obtain Finnish permanent residency after completing your study in the country. However, you must live in Finland for at least four (4) years to be eligible.
Is Finland expensive for international students?
Yes, the cost of living in Finland is a bit high for international students, but not as high as in other European countries. For instance, living in Finland’s capital, Helsinki, costs between €900 and €1,000 monthly. This covers food, housing, transportation, and more. Therefore, as an international student, you must set aside enough funds to study in Finland.