How much money do I need to show?

At least EUR 800 per month — about EUR 9,600 for a full first year — plus any tuition fees. The amount is scaled for studies shorter than a year and an institution's support letter may reduce it.

Do I get a permanent-style permit as a student?

Higher education degree students usually receive a continuous (A) permit, while other programmes and exchange students receive a temporary (B) permit. Study time alone does not count toward a permanent permit.

Can I stay after I graduate?

Yes. Graduates can apply for the residence permit to look for work or start a business, for up to two years.

Long-stay visas (Type D)

Finnish Residence permit for studies

For students admitted to a Finnish degree, vocational qualification or exchange programme, who can show sufficient funds and insurance.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

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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.

On this page

Who it's for
Requirements
What you can do
How to apply
Documents
Frequently asked questions

Issued by: Finnish Immigration Service (Migri)
Means requirement (2026): At least EUR 800 per month (EUR 9,600 for the first year); Plus tuition fees where applicable; scaled for shorter studies
Insurance: Private medical/pharmaceutical cover required; EHIC or UK GHIC can satisfy this
Permit type: A permit (higher education degree) or B permit (other/exchange)

Who it's for

Non-EU nationals accepted to a Finnish educational institution for studies leading to a degree or vocational qualification, or for an exchange programme.

Requirements

Acceptance/admission to a Finnish educational institution
At least EUR 800 available per month (about EUR 9,600 for a full first year), scaled for shorter studies
Tuition fees available in the account at the time of application, where fees apply
Valid private health insurance (or EHIC / UK GHIC)
A valid passport

What you can do

Study full-time in Finland for the programme you were admitted to
Work a limited amount alongside studies under the study-permit work rules
Bring family members (their permits can run up to the length of yours)
After graduating, switch to the permit to look for work or start a business

How to apply

Apply in the Enter Finland online service (or on paper) after receiving your admission decision, uploading proof of admission, funds and insurance, and pay the fee.

Prove your identity at a Finnish mission abroad. Higher education degree students are generally granted an A permit; others a B permit.

Documents

Valid passport
Study residence-permit application
Certificate of admission/acceptance
Proof of sufficient funds (and tuition fees where applicable)
Proof of private health insurance (or EHIC/UK GHIC)

Frequently asked questions

At least EUR 800 per month — about EUR 9,600 for a full first year — plus any tuition fees. The amount is scaled for studies shorter than a year and an institution's support letter may reduce it.

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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