How to Apply for Finland Work Visa?

If you're looking to build your career in Finland, known for its innovation, high quality of life, and excellent work environment, securing a Finnish work visa is your first step. Officially, Finland issues residence permits for employed persons, which allow non-EU/EEA nationals to live and work in the country.

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer from a Finnish Employer

Before applying for a residence permit, you must first obtain a valid job offer from a company in Finland. This involves:

Searching for job openings that match your qualifications and skills.
Successfully applying and interviewing for a position.
Receiving a binding employment contract or a written job offer from the employer.

Make sure the job meets the conditions required for a work-based residence permit, including adequate salary and work duration.

Step 2: Submit a Residence Permit Application

Once you have your job offer in hand, you can proceed to apply for a residence permit for an employed person. The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) handles these applications.

How to Apply:

Online via the Enter Finland portal: This is the preferred method, allowing you to track the progress of your application and communicate with the authorities efficiently.

Documents Required:

A valid passport.
A passport-size photo that meets Finnish specifications.
A copy of your employment contract or job offer.
Educational certificates and proof of relevant work experience.
Evidence of sufficient financial resources to support yourself in Finland.
Health insurance coverage that complies with Finnish regulations.
Any additional documents as required by Migri, based on your specific job or background.

Don't forget to pay the application processing fee, which can vary depending on whether you apply online or on paper.

Step 3: Visit a Finnish Mission Abroad

After submitting your online application, you must book an appointment at the nearest Finnish embassy or consulatein your country of residence. In some countries, Finland may also partner with authorized visa application centers.

During your visit, you will need to:

Verify your identity in person.
Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).
Submit original documents, if requested.

Check the website of the local Finnish mission or visa center for specific instructions and appointment scheduling.

Step 4: Application Processing

Once you've completed your appointment, the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) will begin processing your application. In many cases, the Employment and Economic Development Office (TE Office) in Finland also evaluates the job offer to ensure it meets legal and labor market requirements.

Processing times vary, but it’s advisable to apply well in advance—ideally 2–3 months before your intended travel date.

Step 5: Receive the Decision and Residence Permit Card

After your application is reviewed:

You will receive a decision notification, either through the Enter Finland portal or via the Finnish mission.
If approved, you’ll be issued a residence permit card, which serves as your official work visa and allows you to live and work in Finland legally.

Additional Considerations

Start Early: The entire process may take several weeks to months depending on workload and document verification, so apply early.
Eligibility Criteria: Different types of residence permits exist based on job roles (e.g., specialist permits, startup entrepreneur permits). Be sure you're applying for the correct type.
Varying Local Procedures: Depending on your country, you may need to go through specific visa centers such as VFS Global or its equivalents.
Spouse and Family Members: You may be eligible to bring family members through family reunification applications.

Finland welcomes skilled professionals from around the world, and the structured work visa process ensures transparency and fairness. By preparing your documents, securing a job, and following the correct application procedures, you can take the first confident step toward working and living in Finland.

For the latest and most accurate information, always consult the official website of the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) or your nearest Finnish embassy or consulate.