Finland Introduces Stricter Criteria for Family Residence Permits

The Finnish Parliament has passed new legislation that introduces stricter conditions for granting residence permits based on family ties. These measures are part of the government’s broader efforts to reform immigration policy and ensure that family reunification is based on clearer and more controlled requirements.

New Age Requirement for Spousal Residence Permits

Under the updated rules, residence permits based on marriage or family relationships will only be granted if both spouses are at least 21 years old.
However, this condition does not apply when the applicant is married to a Finnish citizen, indicating Finland's intent to maintain preferential treatment for families involving Finnish nationals.

Tougher Rules for Families of Protected Persons

The criteria have also become more stringent for families of minors who have been granted international or temporary protection in Finland. Under the new regulations, family members of protected minors will only qualify for residence permits if they can prove sufficient means of support.

Additionally, relatives of individuals with international protection can now receive a residence permit only if the sponsor has resided in Finland for at least two years, limiting the eligibility for extended family reunification.

Work Permit Applications Declining in 2025

The Finnish Immigration Service has released updated projections for 2025, highlighting a decline in work permit applications. According to Johannes Hirvelä, Director of Development at the agency, Finland is expected to receive around 11,000 work-related residence permit applications, a noticeable drop from previous years.

“We anticipate that next year, the number of employees’ applications will reach roughly the same level as in 2021, if the Finnish economy recovers as forecast,”
— Johannes Hirvelä, Finnish Immigration Service

This estimate reflects a decrease of about 4,000 applications from 2023 and 5,000 fewer than in 2022, signaling cooling interest in Finland as a destination for foreign workers.

Student Interest Remains Strong Despite Stricter Rules

In contrast to work permit trends, the number of study-based residence permit applications remains high. Authorities expect around 15,000 study permit applications in 2025, demonstrating that Finland continues to attract international students despite the country’s recent tightening of student visa regulations.

“Even with stricter rules, Finland remains an attractive destination for students from around the world,”
— Johannes Hirvelä