Skip to content
1 way to enter

Finland visas

Finland visa on arrival

A Schengen visa can be issued at Finland's border in exceptional cases. It is not a routine arrival option.

Ways to get a Finland visa on arrival

  1. Emergency single-entry Schengen visa

    Visa on arrival

    Travellers who meet normal visa criteria and prove that unforeseeable and urgent circumstances prevented an advance application may qualify.

    Stay
    Up to 15 days.
    Valid for
    Up to 15 days.
    Entries
    Single entry.
    1. Explain the exceptional circumstances at the border and present evidence.
    2. Demonstrate that you meet the normal Schengen visa requirements.

Who needs it

This route is for visa-required travellers who can prove that unforeseeable and urgent circumstances prevented an advance application.

How to apply

  1. Present evidence at the border that unforeseeable and urgent circumstances prevented you from applying in advance.
  2. Show that you meet the regular Schengen visa requirements.

What to bring

  • Evidence explaining why you could not apply in advance.
  • Documents showing that you meet the regular Schengen visa requirements; a full checklist is not specified.

Good to know

  • The circumstances must be exceptional.
  • You must meet the regular visa criteria.
  • If consultation with other Schengen authorities is required, border issue is limited to exceptional humanitarian grounds, national interest or international obligations.
  • An airline may refuse boarding if you do not already hold the required travel documents.
  • A separate theoretical border visa route exists for certain family members of European single market citizens.

Questions

Do I need a visa on arrival for Finland?

This route is for visa-required travellers who can prove that unforeseeable and urgent circumstances prevented an advance application.

How long can I stay on a Finland visa on arrival?

Up to 15 days.

How long is a Finland visa on arrival valid?

Up to 15 days. Entries: Single entry..

What documents do I need for a Finland visa on arrival?

Evidence explaining why you could not apply in advance.; Documents showing that you meet the regular Schengen visa requirements; a full checklist is not specified..

How do I apply for a Finland visa on arrival?

1. 1. Present evidence at the border that unforeseeable and urgent circumstances prevented you from applying in advance. 2. 2. Show that you meet the regular Schengen visa requirements.

What rules do I have to follow on a Finland visa on arrival?

The circumstances must be exceptional. You must meet the regular visa criteria. If consultation with other Schengen authorities is required, border issue is limited to exceptional humanitarian grounds, national interest or international obligations.

Does my passport change whether I need a visa on arrival for Finland?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Finland visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a visa on arrival for Finland be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Finland visa on arrival rules?

On Finland's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my visa on arrival once I am in Finland?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

Reviewed by