The Schengen category C visa permits temporary travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa comes in three forms:
1. Single-entry visa: This allows one entry into Finland.
2. Double-entry visa: Permitting two entries into Finland.
3. Multiple-entry visa: Allows several consecutive visits to the Schengen area within a validity period of up to five years. The total duration of stays cannot exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
Additionally, the Schengen category A visa is specifically for airport transit, enabling passage through international transit areas during stopovers or flight changes. Holders cannot leave the airport's international transit area. This visa is mandatory for nationals of specific countries listed, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iraq, Iran, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, and Sri Lanka.
The Schengen category D visa allows stays of up to 90 days within 180 days in the Schengen Area. Finland issues D visas to certain eligible applicants, such as those with valid residence permits who need to return to Finland in case of a lost, stolen, or expired residence permit card.
Finally, Limited Territorial Validity Visas (LTVV) enable travel only within certain Schengen States mentioned in the visa. These visas are exceptional and may be granted for humanitarian reasons, national interest, or international obligations, but they do not allow travel to other Schengen States.