What is a Finland Visa?

To enter Finland, most travelers from around the world require a visa. Finland, as part of the Schengen area, allows visa-free entry for citizens of other Schengen nations and a few visa-exempt countries. The Finland entry permits consist mainly of two types: the short-term Finland Schengen visa and long-term visas.

How to Apply for Finland Visa?

Applying for a Finland visa is done online but requires offline submission at Finland Visa Application Centers (VAC). Before starting your application, ensure eligibility:

1. Gather all necessary documents for the application.
2. Visit the VAC website and access the application portal.
3. Fill in the Finnish visa application form and print the confirmation received via email.
4. Book a visa appointment at any VAC or at the embassy if possible, via phone, email, or online.
5. Attend the appointment with required documents, application form, and pay fees. Biometrics submission is also necessary.
6. If biometrics were submitted in the past 5 years, resubmission may not be required, and in such cases, applications may not need to be submitted in person.

Ensure accurate details and submission of genuine documents to avoid visa rejection, which could impact future applications.

Finland Visa Types

Based on the duration of stay, Finnish visas are classified as:

1. Short Term: Also known as the Finland Schengen visa, issued for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It includes subcategories like Tourist, Business, and Visitor visas.

2. Long Term: Finland does not issue long-term visas; instead, residence permits are provided for purposes such as study, work, and family reunion.

Documents Required for Finland Visa

While each type of Finnish permit has specific document requirements, general documents include:

– Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
– Old passports (if any).
– 2 passport size photographs.
– Travel itinerary.
– Confirmed round-trip flight tickets.
– Proof of accommodation.
– Travel medical insurance covering €30,000.
– Proof of occupation.
– Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements, ITR).

Photo Specifications for Finland Visa

Photo specifications include:

– Size: 35mm X 45mm.
– Color: Colored.
– Head must occupy the central position.
– Taken within the last 3 months.
– Background: Solid white or grey.
– 80% face coverage with a neutral expression.
– Non-thick framed glasses and prescription glasses permitted.
– Headgears allowed only for religious reasons; facial hair permitted.

Processing Time of Finland Visa

Processing time varies depending on visa type, number of entries, duration, and application volume. Normally issued within 15 working days, it’s recommended to apply well in advance.