Entry Requirements and Preparations Before Arrival
Before coming to Finland, students must make certain preparations in their home country. One of the most important steps is to contact the nearest Finnish Embassy or Consulate to find out what kind of entry permits are required for studying in Finland.
All foreign nationals—except citizens of the Nordic countries and Schengen Area countries—must have a valid passport. Depending on your nationality and the length of your stay, you may also need a visa or a residence permit.
Please note that the information on this page may change. For the most up-to-date details on immigration procedures, always refer to the official website of the Finnish Immigration Service.
If you are a citizen of an EU or EEA country (European Union member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Norway), you do not need a visa or residence permit to enter Finland.
However, if your stay exceeds three months, you must register your right of residence with the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).
Health Insurance
EU/EEA citizens are covered by the Finnish National Health Insurance system (KELA). You must bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you. This card should be obtained from your local Social Security office before arriving in Finland.
Citizens of Nordic Countries
Citizens of Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Iceland can enter, live, study, and work in Finland without any permits. A valid official identity card is sufficient to prove your identity.
Upon arrival, Nordic citizens must register at the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV).
If you are from outside the EU/EEA:
- For stays under 3 months, you may need a visa.
- For stays over 3 months, you must apply for a residence permit for studies.
To apply for a residence permit, you will need:
- A valid passport
- Passport-sized photos
- An official acceptance letter from Vaasa University of Applied Sciences (VAMK)
- A valid health insurance policy
- Proof of sufficient financial resources
- Proof of paid tuition fee (for degree students)
Note: Health insurance is a mandatory requirement for obtaining a residence permit for studies in Finland. It must be valid upon entry.
Income Requirement
International students from outside Europe must show proof of sufficient funds:
€800 per month or €9,600 per year (as of 1 August 2025).
This amount may change, so please check the latest requirements on the Finnish Immigration Service website.
Student’s Family Members
Are you bringing family members with you?
You can find more information about entry permits for family members on the websites of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland and the Finnish Immigration Service.
After Arrival in Finland
All international students staying in Finland for more than three months must register at the local Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV). This registration is required to be added to the Finnish Population Information System and to receive a Finnish personal identity number.
