Finland has announced important changes to its citizenship application process starting December 17, 2025. These updates focus on digitalisation, financial independence, security checks, and genuine integration into Finnish society.
If you plan to apply for Finnish citizenship, understanding these changes early can help you avoid delays or rejection. This guide explains the new rules clearly and simply.
Fully Online Finnish Citizenship Application
From December 17, 2025, applicants will be able to apply for Finnish citizenship completely online through the Enter Finland service.
This means:
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No physical paper applications
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Online document upload
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Real-time application status tracking
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Secure digital communication with Migri
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Faster notifications and updates
Important:
Applications submitted before December 17, 2025 will be processed under the old rules. The new law applies only to applications submitted on or after this date.
Financial Self-Sufficiency Becomes a Core Requirement
One of the most significant changes is the stronger focus on financial independence.
Applicants must prove:
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Stable and sufficient income
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No reliance on social assistance or unemployment benefits
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Income from legal sources such as employment, business, pension, or investments
Required proof may include:
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Salary slips
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Employment contracts
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Tax returns
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Business financial records
The goal is to ensure that new citizens are economically active and self-reliant, and able to contribute to Finnish society.
Stricter Criminal Background Checks
The new law introduces enhanced criminal background screening.
What this means:
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Serious crimes or repeated offences can lead to refusal
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Some offences may require a waiting period before applying
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Minor fines or small violations usually do not affect the decision
Each case will be reviewed individually, but serious criminal history can significantly delay or block approval.
Citizenship Can Be Revoked in Serious Cases
Finnish authorities now have the legal power to revoke citizenship in specific situations, including:
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Terrorism
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Treason
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Actions threatening national security
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Providing false or misleading information during the application
This rule strengthens national security and ensures the integrity of the citizenship process.
Who Can Obtain Finnish Citizenship?
Finnish citizenship can be acquired in three main ways.
Automatic Citizenship
You may receive Finnish citizenship automatically if:
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You are a child of a Finnish parent
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You were born in Finland and would otherwise be stateless
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You were adopted by Finnish citizens
Citizenship Through Naturalisation
This is the most common route for foreign nationals.
You must:
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Have legally lived in Finland for usually 5–8 years (exceptions apply)
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Be an adult with full legal capacity
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Have no serious criminal record
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Demonstrate Finnish or Swedish language skills at B1 level
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Prove stable income independent of social assistance
Citizenship Through Declaration (Simplified Process)
This applies to specific groups:
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Citizens of Nordic countries (Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden)
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Former Finnish citizens applying to regain citizenship
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Certain adopted children of Finnish citizens
This route is usually faster and has fewer requirements.
Basic Requirements for Finnish Citizenship Applicants
Most applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Residence: Usually 8 years of legal residence with a valid permit
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Language: Finnish or Swedish at B1 level or higher
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Income: Stable, legal income without social benefits
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Criminal record: No serious or repeated offences
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Integration: Employment, studies, volunteering, or community involvement
Required Documents for Finnish Citizenship Application
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
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Valid passport and residence permit
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Proof of residence in Finland
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Income and financial documents
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Language certificate (YKI B1 or equivalent)
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Criminal record certificates (Finland and country of origin)
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Proof of integration (work, education, volunteering)
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Civil status documents (marriage, divorce, children, name changes)
Important:
All foreign-language documents must be translated into Finnish, Swedish, or English, and notarised if required by Migri.
Why Proper Preparation Is Essential
With the new rules, Finland places greater importance on:
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Real integration into society
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Financial independence
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Honest and accurate documentation
Even small mistakes can result in months of delay or rejection.
At euhelpers, we recommend preparing carefully and relying only on verified information.
Final Thoughts
Finland’s updated citizenship rules aim to build a secure, integrated, and self-sufficient society. For applicants, success depends on planning, compliance, and accurate documentation.
If you want step-by-step guidance, official requirements, and expert support, our immigration guide can help you move forward confidently.
Take the first step towards your future abroad with clarity and confidence.