Planning to work abroad but are still undecided about the destination, then you should consider working in Finland. Finland is a country with an impressive landscape, about 41 national parks, and beautiful coastlines, and is home to Europe’s largest lake district. Additionally, prominent cities like Helsinki, Espoo, Tampere, Turku, and Vantaa, are also in this beautiful country.
Additionally, the country has a sustainable economic structure. The citizens have access to the necessities of life and even enjoy more benefits! Food, healthcare, and education amongst other things are accessible. The workers in the country are not also left out. Finland is one of the countries with the highest average salaries globally according to Statista.
Also, students studying in the country can work for 30 hours per week and earn per hour depending on their chosen industry of specialization. If you’re searching for a country to relocate to, then you might have just stumbled on the right option! In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Finland’s work visa and how to can begin your journey to a better life. But remember to subscribe to our newsletter for more informative updates.
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Any person who is not a citizen of any of the following countries will need a Finland work visa to be eligible to live and work in Finland legally.
It is also important to note that the Finland work visa is quite different from other types of visas being that it is a long-term permit that allows its holders to work in the country for more than 90 days.
Read also: How To Get A 5-Year Work Visa For Finland: A Comprehensive Guide
Furthermore, for you to qualify for a work visa in Finland, there are some specific criteria you will have to meet up with. These criteria include:
Below are the steps for applying for a Finland work visa:
Read also: Study In Finland: University Of Tampere Masters Scholarships 2024/2025 For International Students
Generally, the Finland work visa lasts for about a year. However, the exact duration is dependent on the type of your visa. Holders of the B permit (temporary permit) will be allowed to work for a year, while holders of the A permit can stay in the country for an extended period.
Of course. However, there are different durations you can apply for. For the temporary permit, it is required that the holder extends it yearly while the continuous permit is extended every four years.
Additionally, holders should ensure they apply for the permit at least three months before the expiration date. Living with a continuous permit for 5 years makes you eligible to apply for a permanent residence permit.
This is dependent on the type of visa you applied for. If you applied for a work permit that allows you to switch if you applied for an employer, then you should not run into problems. Consequently, if you applied for a Finland work permit based on an employer, then you’ll be able to switch employers.
There are different types of work visas available in Finland. Applicants are to apply for the specific visa that they are qualified for. Below is a list of the types of work visas available in Finland:
The Finnish job seeker visa is available to graduates who have finished their degree program in the country. The visa is valid for one year, and it allows holders to stay in Finland while looking for employment.
The Finish EU Blue Card is given to individuals who are highly qualified and wish to work in the country. In addition to the general eligibility requirements stated above, applicants must have a gross income of at least €4,929 per month. Additionally, it allows you to work only in Finland and lasts for two years before renewal.
The Finland entrepreneur visa is given to individuals who meet any of the following criteria:
Also, freelancers or light-entrepreneurs are given this visa too. Additionally, this work permit requires the holder to register their business in the Trade Register maintained by the Finnish Patent and Registration Office.
Read also: 10 Reasons Why Finland Has The Best Education System In The World
Individuals who plan on running a startup/business in Finland should apply for this visa. However, applicants must have a positive Eligibility Statement from Business Finland.
The specialist work visa is given to highly skilled workers who are experts in their fields. As a skilled worker, your salary should be a minimum of €3,000 monthly.
People working with religious associations can apply for the Finland religious work visa. However, your employer must be registered in the country, and you must have a valid work contract.
Young adults between the ages of 17-30 are granted the Finland Au Pair visa. They’re usually assigned to work with a host family in Finland, and the visa helps them to get acquainted with Finnish culture and language.
The Finland seasonal work visa is a short-term visa valid for only three months. It’s for those whose work in the country is going to last for a particular time frame.
Holders of a valid Finland work visa are allowed to bring their family members along to the country.
The cost of the Finland work visa ranges from €380 to €740, depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. It is important to note that the electronic application is cheaper than the paper application. Also, the work visa renewal costs between €160 to €430.
Read also: 10 Profitable & Popular Jobs In Finland – All You Need To Know
You’re eligible to apply for permanent residence in Finland after you have lived for five years in the country with a continuous permit.
In conclusion, if you still desire to know more about the Finnish work visa, visit the official website of the Finland Immigration Services by clicking this link.
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MPower Finance and Prodigy Finance are some of the best student loan providers for international students. They also do not require a cosigner or collateral before an application. Reach out to us today, and let’s help you get begin the process.
This post was last modified on February 29, 2024 2:14 pm