Visas and Residence Permits in Finland: What Every Student Should Know

For many international students, particularly those from North Africa, the thought of studying in Finland comes with questions about visas and residence permits. These documents, while essential, are far from being a barrier to your dreams. Instead, they’re a simple legal formality that ensures your transition to Finland is smooth and compliant.

At Apprentis Global Education, we understand the unique challenges students face when navigating this process for the first time. Our role is to simplify and manage the formalities, allowing you to focus on your studies and future.

1. Understanding the Basics: Visa vs. Residence Permit

It’s important to distinguish between different types of travel and residency documents to avoid confusion:

• Visa: A visa is typically issued for short-term stays (less than 90 days) for purposes like tourism or business. It’s not suitable for full-time studies in Finland, as it doesn’t grant the legal residency required for longer periods.
• Residence Permit: A residence permit is required for international students enrolling in full-time degree programs in Finland. It allows you to live in Finland for the duration of your studies, work part-time, and travel freely within the Schengen area.

Why This Distinction Matters

Many students mistakenly believe that a simple visa will suffice for their studies. However, a residence permit provides the legal foundation for your time in Finland, ensuring you can access work opportunities, public services, and travel freedom within the Schengen region.

2. Why a Residence Permit is Essential

Your residence permit is more than just a legal requirement—it’s a document that allows you to fully experience and benefit from life in Finland. With it, you can:

• Live Legally: Stay in Finland for the full duration of your program without concerns about immigration rules.
• Work Part-Time: Gain valuable work experience while supporting yourself financially. Full-time work is allowed during holidays.
• Travel Across Europe: Visit 26 Schengen countries without needing additional visas.

Remember: While the residence permit is essential, it’s not a complex process when handled correctly. That’s where we step in.

What Happens Without a Residence Permit?

Without this document, you cannot legally live or study in Finland, limiting your ability to work, access student benefits, or participate in internships. Missing or incomplete permits can disrupt your academic plans, which is why getting it right the first time is crucial.

3. What’s Required: The Key Elements

The residence permit application involves some basic requirements. However, understanding the process and presenting your application properly is critical to avoiding delays.

• Proof of Admission: Confirmation that you’ve been accepted to study at a recognized Finnish institution.
• Financial Proof: Documentation that shows you can support yourself during your studies.
• Health Insurance: A policy that meets Finnish requirements to cover your medical expenses.
• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your studies.

How Apprentis Helps: We ensure your documents meet all requirements and are submitted correctly, avoiding common errors that can delay approval.

Common Pitfalls in the Application Process

Errors in financial documentation or incomplete health insurance policies are frequent issues for students. With Apprentis, we carefully review and verify your application to ensure a seamless process.

4. The Process Simplified

For many students, the residence permit process seems intimidating. However, with the right guidance, it’s just a formal step on your path to studying in Finland.

What You Don’t Have to Worry About

• Missing Deadlines: We monitor every timeline to ensure you stay on track.
• Incomplete Documents: Our team reviews every detail to ensure compliance with Finnish regulations.
• Uncertainty: We act as your representative, keeping you informed and updated at every stage.

Steps Involved

1. Gathering required documents with our support.
2. Submitting your application accurately and on time.
3. Tracking your application status and responding to any additional requests.

We streamline this process so you can focus on preparing for your studies.

5. Work Rights with a Residence Permit

One of the biggest benefits of a residence permit is the ability to work during your studies. This provides financial support and practical experience.

Key Work Opportunities:

• You can work up to 30 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during official holidays.
• Internships tied to your degree are often exempt from these hour limits, allowing you to focus on gaining relevant experience.

Pro Tip: At Apprentis, we can also guide you on finding part-time work opportunities that fit your schedule and enhance your experience.

6. Why Apprentis is Your Best Partner

Navigating the residence permit process alone can be stressful, especially when dealing with unfamiliar legal systems or requirements. That’s why so many students choose Apprentis Global Education for support.

Our Role:

• Simplifying Requirements: We provide clear guidance on what’s needed and ensure nothing is overlooked.
• Handling Documentation: From gathering the correct documents to submitting your application, we take care of every step.
• Acting as Your Representative: We manage communications with Finnish authorities and track your application’s progress, so you don’t have to.

Contact Apprentis Global Education

Ready to start your journey? Let us help you take the first step toward achieving your dreams in Finland.

• Email: info@apprentis.fi
• Phone: +358 41 7477108
• Address: Asemapäällikönkatu 5, 00520 HELSINKI