๐Ÿš” Police & Migri

Residence permits, renewals, police registration, and navigating the Finnish immigration system.

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๐Ÿ›๏ธ Two Key Authorities

Migri (Finnish Immigration Service) handles all residence permit applications. The Police handles biometric data collection and some registrations. Most applications are submitted online via enterfinland.fi.

Types of Residence Permits

  • Work-based permit โ€” for employees, entrepreneurs, and specialists
  • Study permit โ€” for students enrolled in Finnish educational institutions
  • Family reunification โ€” for family members of Finnish citizens or residents
  • EU citizen registration โ€” EU/EEA citizens register their right of residence
  • Permanent residence (pysyvรค oleskelulupa) โ€” after 4 years of continuous residence

How to Apply for a Residence Permit

1

Apply online at enterfinland.fi

Create an account at enterfinland.fi and fill in your application. Upload all required documents (passport, employment contract, proof of income, etc.).

2

Pay the application fee

Fees vary by permit type โ€” typically โ‚ฌ350โ€“490. Payment is made online during the application process.

3

Visit the police for biometrics

After submitting your application, you'll be asked to visit a police station to give your fingerprints and photo. Book an appointment at poliisi.fi.

4

Wait for the decision

Processing times vary โ€” typically 1โ€“3 months for work permits, longer for family reunification. Track your application status at enterfinland.fi.

5

Collect your residence permit card

Once approved, collect your permit card from the police station. Bring your passport and the collection notice.

Renewing Your Permit

Apply for renewal at least 3 months before your current permit expires. Apply via enterfinland.fi. If you apply before expiry, you can continue living and working in Finland while waiting for the decision (continuous residence right).

If Your Application is Rejected

  • You have the right to appeal the decision to the Administrative Court (Hallinto-oikeus)
  • The appeal period is usually 30 days from receiving the decision
  • Consider consulting a lawyer who specialises in immigration law
  • Contact the Finnish Refugee Advice Centre (Pakolaisneuvonta) for free legal help

Key Websites