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Digital Nomad Visa for Finland: Requirements and How to Apply
The digital nomad visa in Finland offers remote workers the possibility to live in Finland and take advantage of its benefits
Finland, with its connectivity and advanced technological infrastructure, is one of the ideal locations for remote workers seeking to work remotely from countries with leading connectivity. It’s a benchmark for technology and startups, which makes it an inspiring and motivating environment for digital nomads who are constantly creating, innovating and implementing digital. Find out here the price and how to apply for the digital nomad visa in Finland.
Stable, with a high quality of life and a commitment to sustainability, this country offers multiple networking opportunities for digital nomads. As well as natural settings that will help you to disconnect from work and get inspired by nature, read on for relevant information about the digital nomad visa in Finland.
What’s the digital nomad visa in Finland and how does it work?
The digital nomad visa in Finland is a temporary residence permit designed for remote workers and freelancers who wish to settle in the country while continuing to carry out professional activities remotely. This type of visa came bout in response to the growing global trend of remote working, driven by technological advances and new forms of work organisation.
The legal backing for this visa comes from Finnish migration policies, which seek to attract international talent to strengthen the country’s economy and encourage cultural exchange. The visa represents an opportunity to explore life in Finland and also to contribute to the country’s professional ecosystem. It’s aimed primarily at professionals with a stable income who work for foreign companies or are self-employed and wish to experience a unique lifestyle in a nation with one of the highest quality of life indices in the world.
Features of the digital nomad visa in Finland
- Duration: This visa allows a stay of up to one year, with the possibility of renewal depending on the applicant’s objectives and situation.
- Permitted activities: Holders may work remotely for foreign companies, operate as freelancers or manage online businesses that aren’t registered in Finland.
- Access to services: Beneficiaries have limited access to some public services, such as transport and cultural activities, but not to full social benefits.
- Taxes: Even if they work for foreign companies, digital nomads may be subject to certain tax contributions in Finland depending on the duration of their stay.
- Online application process: The visa can be fully applied for digitally, simplifying the application process for applicants residing outside the country.
Who can apply for a digital nomad visa in Finland?
Eligibility for this visa is open to people of different nationalities, provided they meet certain economic and professional criteria.
- Countries that can apply: In general, anyone who doesn’t require a Schengen visa to enter Finland has an easier time in the process. This includes citizens of countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and most European nations. However, citizens of Latin American countries such as Mexico, Argentina, and Brazil are also eligible, provided they meet specific visa requirements.
- Occupational restrictions: There are no strict occupational limitations, but the visa is mainly oriented towards occupations that allow remote work, such as technology, design, marketing and consulting.
- Specific exclusions: People seeking local employment or wishing to operate physically established businesses in Finland should consider other types of residence permits.
Requirements for applying for a digital nomad visa for Finland
Applicants must meet several requirements that ensure their ability to reside in Finland independently and contribute to the local environment in a sustainable way.
- Minimum verifiable income:
It’s necessary to demonstrate a consistent monthly income to cover the cost of living in Finland. The estimated amount is at least €3,000 per month, although this may vary depending on the family situation or the length of stay. - Proof of remote employment:
Evidence must be provided that the applicant works for a foreign company, operates as a freelancer or runs an online business. This may include employment contracts, letters from clients or registration documents of companies operating abroad. - International health insurance:
It’s compulsory to take out health insurance to cover emergencies and basic medical care for the duration of your stay in Finland. - Proficiency in English or Finnish:
Although not strictly compulsory, a basic level of English or Finnish is recommended to facilitate integration and access to local services. - Clean criminal record:
Applicants must submit an up-to-date certificate attesting to the absence of a criminal record. - Valid passport:
The passport must be valid for at least six months after the intended date of departure from Finland. - Proof of accommodation:
A residence address is required for the duration of the stay, whether temporary or permanent. This can be lease contracts or letters of invitation from a host in Finland.
Documents you need to collect and submit when applying for a digital nomad visa in Finland
To apply for a digital nomad visa in Finland, you need to gather a number of documents to support your application. These papers are essential to ensure that you comply with legal and economic requirements. Here we provide you with a more detailed list:
- Application form completed:
This form can be downloaded from the official Finnish immigration website and must be filled out in full. - Valid passport:
It must be valid for at least six months after the intended date of departure and have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. - Recent photographs:
Generally, two colour photographs with white background, in standard passport dimensions, are required. - Proof of income:
Documents must be provided to support the applicant’s financial stability, such as bank statements for the last six months, pay slips or contracts specifying monthly income. - Proof of remote employment or self-employment:
This includes employment contracts, letters from clients or documents certifying the operation of a self-employed business registered outside Finland. - International medical insurance:
A policy valid for the entire stay in Finland covering medical emergencies, hospitalisation and repatriation, with a suggested minimum coverage of €30,000. - Criminal record certificate:
This must be issued by the authorities of the country of origin or the place where the applicant has resided in the last five years. - Proof of accommodation:
Lease agreements, hotel reservations or letters of invitation from local hosts confirming that you have a place to live. - Letter of intent:
A document explaining why you want to live temporarily in Finland as a digital nomad and how you plan to finance your stay.
Gathering this documentation in an orderly and complete manner will increase the chances that your application will be processed smoothly.
How much does it cost to obtain a digital nomad visa in Finland?
Applying for a digital nomad visa in Finland involves certain administrative costs that vary according to the number of people included in the application. In addition, it’s important to consider the expenses associated with the cost of living in the country, which must be covered independently.
Visa application costs
The cost of applying for this visa may vary depending on the type of application and the number of people included:
- Individual application: The approximate cost for one person is €400, which includes the review of documentation and the issuance of the temporary residence permit.
- Application for couples: The cost for two people can be around €750, depending on how the documents are submitted (separately or together).
- Families with children: If you wish to include additional members, such as minor children, the cost is usually €200 extra for each additional person.
There’s also an additional charge for the physical residence card, which costs an average of 50 euros and is issued after approval of the application. This document is required to identify you as a temporary resident in Finland.
Applicant’s minimum income
One of the key requirements for obtaining this visa is to demonstrate sufficient income to live comfortably in Finland during your stay. Although there’s no official minimum income, the Finnish government recommends having an income level that covers basic expenses such as accommodation, food and transport.
- Individual person: It’s estimated that the applicant must have a monthly income of at least €3,000 to meet the cost of living expectations.
- Couples: In the case of couples, the combined income should be approximately €5,000 per month.
- Families: For families with children, it’s recommended to add between €500 and 800 per month for each minor child to cover additional costs.
Average cost of living in Finland
While the country doesn’t require an official minimum income, it’s essential to consider some basic expenses:
- Accommodation: Renting a one-bedroom apartment in cities like Helsinki can cost between €900 and €1,500 per month. In smaller locations, prices can be lower, between €700 and €1,000.
- Food: The average monthly expenses on food is around €300 to €500 per person.
- Transport: Public transport services are efficient, with a monthly cost of between €60 and €100 for transport cards.
- Health insurance: Although compulsory, the cost varies depending on the provider and coverage, but is around €100 per month.
Having sufficient income facilitates visa approval and also ensures that you’ll be able to fully enjoy your experience in Finland as a digital nomad. Having these costs in mind, you can plan your budget and begin the application process more confidently.
Health insurance in Finland
One of the prerequisites for obtaining a visa for digital nomads in Finland is to take out international health insurance that meets the conditions set by the Finnish government. This insurance should cover medical emergencies, hospitalisation and repatriation, ensuring that the applicant is protected for the duration of their stay in the country.
The minimum value of coverage that the policy must offer is €30,000. Some insurance companies include more extensive coverage, such as emergency dental treatment or specialised care.
Health insurance prices
- Individual: For one person, the average cost of a valid health insurance policy is between €30 and €100 per month, depending on the insurance company and the extent of the coverage.
- Couples and families: For couples, the combined price can be around €50 to €150 per month, while for families with children, the cost increases according to the number of members, reaching €200 or more per month.
Some reliable international insurance companies for this procedure are Allianz, Cigna and AXA. It’s advisable to compare several options and choose the one that fits your needs and budget.
Where and how to apply for a visa for digital nomads in Finland?
The process for obtaining a visa for digital nomads in Finland is done through the country’s official immigration institutions. This can be done online or in person, depending on your location and preference.
Official visa application sites and websites
- Finland immigration website:
The official website is migri.fi, where you can find all the latest visa information, requirements and forms. This site allows you to fully complete the procedure online if you are already in the Schengen Area. - Finnish embassies and consulates:
If you’re outside Finland, you should contact the Finnish embassy or consulate nearest to your location. Some of the most important consulates are located in:- Mexico City, Mexico
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Madrid, Spain
- New York, United States
Steps to apply for a visa
- Review requirements and collect documents: Make sure you meet all requirements and hold the necessary documents.
- Create an account on the immigration website: If you apply online, you’ll need to register on the official Finnish immigration website.
- Schedule an appointment: In case the procedure is face-to-face, schedule your appointment at the corresponding embassy or consulate.
- Submit the documents: Submit the documents at the consular office or upload them to the online website as appropriate.
- Make the payment: Pay the fees corresponding to the procedure by the accepted methods (bank transfer, card or cash).
- Wait for resolution: Once everything is submitted, the processing time is usually 2-4 weeks, although this may vary depending on the workload of the authorities.
It’s important to carefully follow the instructions provided by the official authorities in order to avoid mistakes that may delay the process.
Where can I get tailored advice to apply for the digital nomad visa in Finland?
The process of obtaining a visa for digital nomads in Finland can be complex, especially if you’re not familiar with local laws or administrative procedures. To facilitate this process, there are companies and organisations that offer specialised advice.
Consultancy in Finland
- Enter Finland Helpdesk:
The immigration website offers assistance through its online and telephone helpdesk. They speak English and Finnish, and they’re open from Monday to Friday. - Private companies:
- Relocation Services Finland: They offer comprehensive advice, from the collection of documents to the handling of paperwork once in Finland.
- Finnish Visa Support: Specialists in immigration procedures for international workers, with service in English.
Consultancy in other countries
In your home country, some immigration agencies and specialised lawyers can also provide support. Look for those with experience in visa processes for Europe or specifically for Finland.
Frequently asked questions when applying for a digital nomad visa for Finland
If you work remotely for a foreign company and don’t have clients in Finland, you may not be subject to local taxation. However, if you stay in Finland for more than six months, you may be considered a tax resident and be obliged to pay taxes in Finland.
Yes, it’s possible to renew it as long as you meet the requirements of the initial visa and can prove that you continue to work remotely or as a self-employed person. Renewal is applied for through the immigration website or at local offices.
In case of rejection, you can appeal the decision to the immigration authorities or submit again your application with the necessary modifications. Ask a specialist to identify and correct the mistakes that may have caused the rejection.
The digital nomad visa generally allows a stay of 1 to 2 years, with the possibility to extend it if you meet the required conditions.
No, fluency in Finnish isn’t a requirement for this visa, but a basic knowledge of English is recommended, as it will make it easier for you to communicate in the country.
Yes, you can include your partner and minor children in your visa application. Each member must meet specific requirements and additional costs will apply for each person.
With this detailed information, you now have everything you need to move forward with your application and make Finland your next destination as a digital nomad.
