Finland Raises Residence Permit Fees and Updates Policies for 2025

Starting January 2025, Finland is introducing significant updates to its residence permit fees and immigration policies. These changes include higher application costs, updated income thresholds, and new service fees. To save time and money, applicants are encouraged to utilize online platforms like Enter Finland for faster, more efficient processing. Here’s everything you need to know about these updates and how to prepare.

🔑 Key Changes to Residence Permit Applications

Higher Fees for Permanent Residence Applications

Starting 2025, fees for permanent residence applications will increase:

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

If you submit your application before December 31, 2024, you’ll pay the current rates. The Enter Finland platform is highly recommended for electronic submissions, offering convenience, cost savings, and real-time tracking.

🕒 Temporary Pause on Certain Applications

From January 1 to January 8, 2025, decision-making for specific residence permits will be temporarily halted. This includes:

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

Both initial applications and extensions will be affected. Plan your submissions accordingly to avoid delays.

💼 Changes for Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection

While applying for international protection will remain free, renewing residence permit cards for beneficiaries of temporary protection will incur a small fee:

• Online renewal: EUR 20

🌍 New Fees for Voluntary Return Extensions

For the first time, a EUR 100 fee will be introduced for extending the voluntary return deadline. This fee applies from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025. Although rare in the past, the Finnish Immigration Service anticipates a rise in such requests.

🏠 Increased Fees for Reception Services

Starting 2025, daily fees for reception center services will increase:

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

This adjustment, the first since 2011, reflects operational costs that have nearly doubled over the years. The goal is to ease the financial burden on the reception system while encouraging beneficiaries to transition to private accommodations or municipal residency.

📈 Updated Income Requirements for Employed Persons

To obtain a residence permit as an employed person, the minimum monthly income will rise to EUR 1,600. This aligns with Finland’s strategy to streamline immigration policies and better manage processing costs.

💡 Why These Changes Matter

The fee hikes and policy updates are part of Finland’s broader effort to balance immigration processing costs while maintaining high-quality services. Here’s why staying proactive matters:

• Cost Savings: Apply online to save money and time.
• Planning Ahead: Submit applications before the year-end to avoid increased fees.
• Stay Informed: Regularly check the Finnish Immigration Service website for updates.

By understanding these changes and planning ahead, you can navigate Finland’s updated immigration landscape with ease. Whether you’re applying for a residence permit or renewing an existing one, using tools like the Enter Finland platform ensures a smoother, faster process. Finland’s commitment to efficient immigration services, despite rising operational costs, highlights its focus on sustainable policies for applicants and residents alike.

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