Long-stay visas (Type D)
Finnish Residence permit on the basis of family ties
For close family members, being the spouse or partner, minor children and their guardian, of a person living in Finland, subject to an income requirement.
Important information
- Issued by
- Finnish Immigration Service (Migri)
- Who counts as family
- Spouse/registered partner, 2-year cohabiting partner, child under 18, guardian of a minor
- Income requirement
- Secure means of support, not based on social assistance
- Amount varies with family size and sponsor's permit type
- Apply from
- Outside Finland, at a Finnish mission
Who it's for
Close family members of a person living in Finland (a Finnish citizen or a residence-permit holder) who fall within the legal definition of family member.
Requirements
- A qualifying family relationship (spouse/registered partner, cohabiting partner of 2+ years, child under 18, or guardian of a minor)
- The income requirement met (secure means not based on social assistance), unless an exemption applies
- The applicant is at least 18 to submit their own application
- A valid passport
What you can do
- Live in Finland with your family member
- Generally work in Finland on the family-ties permit
- Apply for an extended family permit and, over time, permanent residence
How to apply
The family member abroad applies in Enter Finland (or on paper) from outside Finland, then verifies identity in person at a Finnish mission.
The sponsor in Finland provides supporting details, including proof of income. Migri assesses the relationship and the income requirement before deciding.
Documents
- Valid passport
- Family-ties residence-permit application
- Evidence of the family relationship (e.g. marriage certificate, birth certificate)
- Proof of the sponsor's or applicant's income
- Passport photo meeting Finnish specifications
Frequently asked questions
A spouse or registered partner, a cohabiting partner you have lived with continuously for at least two years (or share a child with), an unmarried child under 18, and the guardian of a minor. Dating partners and other relatives do not qualify.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
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