Finland Family Reunification Visa: Complete Guide (2024)

Short Answer

The Finland Family Reunification Visa allows spouses, registered partners, children, parents, and guardians of legal residents or citizens in Finland to legally join their families.

Introduction

If you have a close family member legally residing in Finland, you may be eligible to reunite with them under the Family Reunification Visa scheme. This guide explains who can apply, eligibility requirements, application steps, and answers common questions for 2024.

Who Can Apply

Eligible applicants typically include spouses, registered partners, unmarried partners (with proof of cohabitation), children (under 18), and dependent parents or guardians of people who are Finnish citizens, permanent residents, or holders of valid Finnish residence permits.

Requirements

1. Proof of family relationship (marriage/birth certificate, etc.)
2. Valid passports for all applicants
3. Evidence of sufficient income and accommodation in Finland
4. Health insurance (if required)
5. Completed residence permit application
6. Other documents depending on relationship type (e.g. proof of cohabitation for partners)

Process

1. Gather required documents and complete the residence permit application (online via Enter Finland or at a Finnish embassy).
2. Pay the application fee.
3. Attend a personal interview/identity verification at the embassy or Migri service point.
4. The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) reviews your application.
5. Decision is sent; if approved, the residence permit card is issued.

Processing Time

Processing times vary (typically 4-12 months), depending on case complexity and backlog. Up-to-date timelines are available on the Migri website.

Urgent Option

Finland does not generally provide expedited processing for family reunification, but compelling humanitarian circumstances may be considered for quicker handling in rare cases.

Delivery

If approved, you will receive a residence permit card, which is either collected in person at the embassy/service point or sent to your address. You may then travel to Finland and register your residence.

FAQ

• What is the income requirement for the sponsor? - The sponsor must have sufficient income to support the family member(s). The amount depends on family size (check Migri website for up-to-date figures).
• Can I work in Finland on a family reunification permit? - Yes, family members granted a residence permit are generally allowed to work and study in Finland.
• Do I need to know Finnish or Swedish language? - No language test is required for family reunification. However, knowledge of Finnish or Swedish will help integration.
• Can my unmarried partner apply? - Yes, if you can prove at least two years of cohabitation or joint children, your unmarried partner can apply.