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Long-stay visas (Type D)

Finnish Residence permit for a researcher

For people coming to conduct scientific research or prepare a doctoral or licentiate degree under a hosting agreement with a research organisation.

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Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Finland government website before you apply.
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Issued by
Finnish Immigration Service (Migri)
Core requirement
Hosting/research agreement with a research organisation
Income (2026)
Employed: min. EUR 1,463/month; on a grant: EUR 1,210/month
About EUR 29,040 for a two-year permit
Permit type
A permit for research of 2+ years; B permit for shorter

Who it's for

Holders of a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree coming to Finland to do scientific research, or to work toward a licentiate degree or doctoral dissertation, under an agreement with a research organisation.

Requirements

  • A signed agreement on research activity with a Finnish research organisation
  • A relevant higher education degree (bachelor's, master's or doctoral)
  • If employed: salary per the collective agreement or at least EUR 1,463/month (2026)
  • If on a grant: at least EUR 1,210/month available for living costs (about EUR 29,040 for two years)
  • A valid passport

What you can do

  • Conduct research or pursue a doctoral/licentiate degree in Finland
  • Benefit from researcher intra-EU mobility for research in another member state
  • Bring family members via family-ties permits
  • After finishing, apply for the permit to look for work or start a business

How to apply

Once you have the hosting/research agreement, apply in the Enter Finland online service (or on paper), attaching the agreement and proof of salary or funds, and pay the fee.

Verify your identity at a Finnish mission abroad (first permit) or Migri service point (extension). Research of two years or more is granted a continuous (A) permit.

Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Researcher residence-permit application
  • Signed agreement on research activity with the host organisation
  • Proof of degree
  • Evidence of salary (employed) or grant/funds (non-employed)

Frequently asked questions

  • It is an agreement on research activity signed by you and the research organisation, setting out the research purpose, timeline, your legal relationship and working conditions. It is the core requirement for this permit.

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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