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2 ways to enter

Finland visas

Finland work visa

European free movement allows eligible citizens to work in Finland without a visa. Other work routes include working holidays and certain temporary assignments.

Ways to get a Finland work visa

  1. Work under European free movement

    No visa needed

    Citizens of European Union countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland can enter, live and work in Finland without a visa.

    Stay
    The right includes living and working in Finland; no fixed work duration is specified.

  2. Temporary assignment under the Van Der Elst rule

    Other permit

    A worker who is not a European single market citizen but is employed within that market may work temporarily in another member country for the same employer, under certain conditions.

    Stay
    Temporary; no numerical limit is specified.

Who needs it

Travellers outside European free movement need an applicable route that allows work. An ordinary visa-free short visit does not allow work in Finland.

Who doesn't

Citizens of European Union countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland can work in Finland without a visa.

Good to know

  • Do not treat ordinary visa-free visitor entry as permission to work.
  • Long-stay and residence permit conditions depend on Finland's rules.
  • A general Finnish work visa application process is not specified.
  • Finland's working holiday scheme is described separately.

Questions

Do I need a work visa for Finland?

Travellers outside European free movement need an applicable route that allows work. An ordinary visa-free short visit does not allow work in Finland. Citizens of European Union countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland can work in Finland without a visa.

What are the ways to get a work visa for Finland?

There are 2 options: Work under European free movement (no visa at all); Temporary assignment under the Van Der Elst rule (a special permit).

Who can go to Finland without a work visa?

Citizens of European Union countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland can enter, live and work in Finland without a visa.

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

Do not treat ordinary visa-free visitor entry as permission to work. Long-stay and residence permit conditions depend on Finland's rules.

Does my passport change whether I need a work visa 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 work visa 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 work visa 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 work visa 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.

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