Finland to Accelerate Residence Permits for International Students
Finland is set to streamline its residence permit process for international students under a new proposal introduced by the Ministry of the Interior. If approved, the changes will simplify the path to permanent residency, making it easier for students to remain in Finland after completing their studies.
The primary goal of the reform is to attract more international students in highly skilled fields, helping to address labor shortages and strengthen Finland’s economy.
Key Proposed Changes
Under the revised rules, international graduates may obtain a permanent residence permit without needing to meet the usual residency period requirement. To qualify, applicants must fulfill at least one of the following criteria:
- Earn an annual income of at least €40,000
- Possess at least two years of professional work experience
- Hold a postgraduate or master’s degree from a Finnish institution
- Demonstrate strong proficiency in Finnish or Swedish, combined with three years of work experience
Surge in Student Visa Applications
According to official records, Finland received approximately 63,000 study permit applications in 2024, with 53,800 applications from international students. A significant majority—around 80%—came from non-EU countries.
The most sought-after study programs included:
- Business Administration
- Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)
- Law
Top Countries of Origin for Applicants
The largest number of international student applications came from:
- India
- Bangladesh
- Pakistan
- Nigeria
- Nepal
- Sri Lanka
- Ghana
- Vietnam
- Iran
- Cameroon
Finland’s initiative aims to enhance its global appeal as a study destination while boosting its skilled workforce through international talent. If the proposal is passed into law, international students will have a more straightforward pathway to permanent residence, making Finland an even more attractive option for higher education.
