Finland Digital Nomad Visa
In this article
The world travel system is gradually adjusting its procedures to accommodate new trends in global
employment. The development and introduction of digital nomad visas is one of these adaptations
that has been on the rise for years.
Many countries are starting to adopt this travel initiative, encouraging digital nomads to move
around the world, but what about Finland? Does the Finland digital nomad visa exist? Are there any
other alternatives available for remote workers? Keep reading to learn how you can live and work
in one of the top European countries for expats.
Is There a Digital Nomad Visa in Finland?
The simple answer is that Finland does not have a digital nomad visa. Living as a digital nomad with
other visas, such as a tourist visa, is considered illegal in Finland. However, there are other
permits that can allow you to live as a digital nomad in Finland.
Finland is a very peaceful and beautiful country, making it a good spot for digital nomads. This
country has great cities for remote workers too. Finland is also relatively safe, ranking the 14th
safest country globally. The locals are very friendly, making it one of the reasons it has
subsequently been crowned the happiest country in the world.
All in all, Finland is an excellent choice for relocation or temporary residence. Now, let's look
at the alternatives that will enable you to live as a digital nomad in Finland.
What Are the Alternatives to the Digital Nomad Visa?
While Finland does not have a digital nomad visa, it is still possible to reside in this country
as a digital nomad, provided specific requirements are met. The two major alternatives to residing
in Finland as a digital nomad is to get a self-employment visa or start-up. Let's dive right into
what these visas are, the eligibility criteria, and the documents required to apply for these visa
types. Note that these visa types are for non-EU citizens since citizens of the European union
member countries do not need a visa to enter Finland because it is a European country.
Finnish Self-Employment Visa
Who Can Apply for This Type of Visa?
The Finnish self-employment visa applies to individuals who are self-employed or have an
independent business. This is the primary condition required to apply for a Finnish self-employment
visa. If this is established, the next criterion is ensuring you have the minimum monthly gross
income of $1,283 needed to apply for this visa.
How to Apply for a Self-Employment Visa
After you have ticked all the boxes on the eligibility criteria to apply, these are the steps
you need to follow to apply:
- Collate the necessary documents required to apply for the Finnish self-employment visa. The documents are listed below. Note that documents that are not in English need to be translated into English.
- The next step is the fill out the application form and attach all necessary documents. Ensure your documents are complete; incomplete documents will attract a longer processing time.
- After this, the next step is to pay your application fee and submit the application. You can use the online payment method or pay it at the Finnish embassy when you go to verify your identity.
- The next thing to do is to visit the nearest Finnish embassy or consulate to verify your identity and have your fingerprints taken. Here, you are also going to submit the original copies of all the documents you attached to your application form.
- After submitting your application, you can follow it online to check its status.
What Documents Do You Need to Apply?
These are all the necessary documents required to apply for a self-employment visa:
- A valid passport with a minimum validity period of 6 months
- Passport photographs
- The application form
- Bank statements showing monthly income
- Health insurance with international coverage that includes Finland
- Proof of accommodation in Finland
- Evidence showing payment of the application fee
Self-Employment Visa Validity
A self-employed person is only granted a residence permit that lasts six months.
EU and EEA citizens can work in Finland for up to three months without a visa. After this, you
must register for your stay to continue working in Finland.
How Much Does This Visa Cost?
To obtain this visa, you need to pay your application fee. The application fee for the
self-employment visa costs $416.
Start-Up Visa
The Finnish Start-up visa is a residence permit granted to individuals with start-up businesses.
To get the start-up visa, your business needs to be evaluated by business Finland. If approved,
you will get a positive eligibility statement with which you will apply for the visa. Note that
your business has to be established in Finland.
The start-up visa is valid for two years and can be renewed upon request. These are the steps
to follow to apply for a start-up visa:
- Gather together all your necessary documents.
- Apply for the eligibility statement. The application is made to Business Finland. On this application, you are required to answer some questions about your business plan, team, and modules.
- After you have your eligibility statement, apply for the visa with all your documents and your eligibility statement. The eligibility statement should not be more than two months old at this time. You are also required to attach documents proving that you have the means to fund your stay in Finland.
- You can submit your application as soon as all necessary documents have been attached. The submission has to be preceded by the payment of the application fee, which can be done online or at the Finnish embassy.
- After this, you will visit the nearest Finland embassy or consulate to verify your identity and have your fingerprints taken.
- You can follow up on your application status on entering Finland.
Tourist or Schengen Visa
The tourist visa is for individuals who wish to visit Finland for tourism. This is another type
of visa through which a foreigner can visit Finland. However, note that
working as a digital nomad under this type of visa in Finland is illegal. As a
digital Nomad, explore other options such as the self-employment visa.
This type of visa is strictly for citizens of non-EU and non-EEA countries. The process for
applying for this visa is as follows:
- 1. Fill out your visa application form, which is very important when applying for a Schengen visa.
- 2. Prepare all the necessary documents and attach them to your application.
- 3. Find a local Finnish embassy or consulate around you and make an appointment. This can be done in person or via email.
- 4. After your appointment has been booked, you will be invited for a physical interview at the consulate
- 5. Note that the processing time for the visa takes about 15 days, after which a response will be sent to you.
What Are the Required Documents for the Schengen Visa?
To apply for this visa, you need the following documents:
- Valid passport
- Finland tourist application form
- Passport photographs
- Travel insurance
- Proof of accommodation in Finland
- Copies of Previous Schengen Visas are required if you have been issued any Schengen visa before you apply for a Finland tourist visa.
- Copies of Previous Passports.
- Copy of Passport Bio Page
- Documents proving you have the financial means to fund your stay in Finland
- Invitation Letter, which contains all the details of your inviter and their residence status if you have been invited by family or friends
- Employment Status Document
- Cover Letter
- Residence Certificate proving that you are legally living in your current country of residence
The Best Destinations for Digital Nomads in Finland
Here is a list of the top cities in Finland for remote workers:
- 1. Helsinki: Helsinki is the capital of Finland. It is known to be very rich in culture and architecture.
- 2. Turku: Turku has a moderate cost of living compared to Helsinki and is also known for its good internet speed.
- 3. Oulu: The cost of living in Oulu is relatively cheap, making it highly welcoming for digital nomads.
Cost of Living in Finland
The cost of living in Finland is relatively affordable, depending on what part of the country you
stay in. The cost of living in high-ranking countries like Helsinki differs from living in countries
like Oulu, with a lower cost of living.
According to Numbeo statistics, a single person's estimated monthly costs are €854.1
without rent. A Meal at Inexpensive Restaurant costs €9.00 to €20.00. A one-way ticket for local
transport costs about €2.80 to €3.80. Basic utilities, which include electricity, heating,
cooling, water, and garbage for an 85m2 apartment, cost about €67.00 to €212.50. Internet
(60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) ranges from €12.00 to €32.00.
Other Entry Requirements to Be Aware of
Nationals of visa-exempt countries are currently allowed to enter Finland without any travel
authorization. However, they will need to
get an ETIAS to visit Finland starting in 2024. Basically,
the ETIAS is an electronic travel permit created for countries in the Schengen visa waiver
program. It grants visitors entry into Finland and other EU countries for a maximum of 90
days within six months.
Also, this type of travel authorization can only be used for tourist, medical, and business
purposes. In other cases, travelers will need to obtain other relevant types of Finnish visas.
Check Out Other EU Countries With Digital Nomad Visas
While Finland does not have a digital nomad visa, many European countries allow you to reside
in them while working for a foreign company. Here is a list of all EU countries offering digital
nomad visas to remote workers.
FAQs
Does Finland have a remote work visa?
Finland does not have a remote work visa. However, there are other visa types available to self-employed persons who have independent businesses, individuals with start-up businesses, and tourists.How much bank balance is required for a Finland visa?
Recent bank statements that prove you have sufficient funds to live in Finland for the intended length of stay are required. A minimum of $14,000 annual income is required to get a residence permit in Finland.Is Finland good for digital nomads?
Yes, convicted felons can go to Europe. However, from 2023, they may need an ETIAS visa waiver to ensure free entry and movement within the continent.
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