January 7th, 2025 at 05:27 am

Finland Increases Residence Permit Application Fees Starting 2025

Finland is implementing significant changes to residence permit fees and policies, effective January 2025. With increased costs, updated income requirements, and new service fees, applicants should utilize online platforms for faster processing.

The Finnish Ministry of the Interior has announced revised fees for residence permit applications. These updates will affect various permits, including permanent residence and seasonal work. Additionally, there are changes to reception services and income requirements.

Higher Fees for Permanent Residence Applications

From 2025, the processing fees for permanent residence permits will increase:

• Online applications: EUR 240 (up from EUR 220)
• Paper applications: EUR 350 (up from EUR 270)

Applicants who submit requests before December 31, 2024, will pay the current rates. For convenience and cost savings, the Enter Finland platform is recommended for electronic submissions. This platform allows users to track their applications and update information easily.

Temporary Pause on Certain Applications

From January 1 to January 8, 2025, decision-making for some residence permits will temporarily halt. This pause affects:

• Residence permits for employed persons
• Seasonal work permits exceeding six months

Both initial and extension applications will be impacted during this time.

Changes for Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection

Applying for international protection remains free. However, renewing residence permit cards for beneficiaries of temporary protection will now incur a fee:

• Online renewal: EUR 20
• Paper renewal: EUR 40

The first residence permit card is free and valid for the entire duration of temporary protection. Authorities can verify expired cards through their information systems, making renewal optional.

New Fees for Voluntary Return Extensions

Starting January 1, 2025, a EUR 100 fee will apply for extending the deadline for voluntary return. This fee will remain valid until December 31, 2025. Although such applications are historically rare, the Finnish Immigration Service expects an increase in requests.

Increased Fees for Reception Services

Reception centers will raise daily service fees for customers with regular income or significant assets:

• New maximum fee: EUR 12 per day (up from EUR 9)

This adjustment marks the first fee increase since 2011. It reflects rising operational costs, which have grown from EUR 9.60 per day in 2010 to EUR 20.17 in 2023. This change aims to reduce the financial burden on the reception system and encourage beneficiaries to transition to private accommodations or seek municipality residency.

Updated Income Requirements for Employed Persons

Starting January 2025, the minimum monthly income for a residence permit for employed persons will rise to EUR 1,600. This adjustment aligns with Finland’s broader efforts to streamline immigration policies and manage costs effectively.

Why These Changes Matter

The fee adjustments and policy updates reflect Finland’s strategic effort to balance immigration processing costs while maintaining efficient services. Applicants are encouraged to use the Enter Finland platform to save costs and expedite processing. By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate these changes more effectively.