Digital Nomad Visa to Finland

Finland does not offer a classic Digital Nomad visa in the usual sense. Instead, the country has adapted the existing visa program for the self-employed, which has become a solution for digital nomads. This approach reflects the practicality of Finnish legislation. The authorities did not have to create a new legal category. Instead, ready-made mechanisms are used.

The validity period of the primary permit is from 1 year with the possibility of extension. After 4 years of continuous residence, it is possible to obtain a permanent residence permit.

Features of Finland's Digital Nomad Visa

The program is based on a residence permit for entrepreneurs and the self-employed. It requires applicants not just to work remotely, but to create a real business in the country. This is a fundamental difference from most other European programs.

The main document is the Aliens Act, which defines all the basic requirements for obtaining a residence permit. The central role in this visa system belongs to the ELY Centers (Centers for Economic Development, Transport and Environment). These organizations evaluate the profitability of business plans and make preliminary decisions on the feasibility of issuing permits. The final decision is made by the Finnish Immigration Service.

Registration of Y-tunnus is a prerequisite. This is the company's identification number, which turns the visa holder into a full-fledged participant in the Finnish economic system. The registration procedure takes place through the OmaVero portal and takes from 1 to 3 business days.

Financial requirements vary depending on the type of activity. For IT specialists with higher education or 5 years of work experience, the bar is 5,300€ per month. An alternative way of self-employment involves more than 3,000euros per month available.

A prerequisite is to stay in Finland for at least 6 months a year, which limits the mobility of digital nomads.

Conditions for obtaining a freelance visa

The basic rule is simple – income should provide the opportunity to live in the country. The minimum income for moving with a spouse starts from 4,725€ per month. For IT specialists with higher education, the bar rises to 5,300 € per month. Bank statements (confirming income) for the last 3 months must be original and stamped by the bank. Contracts with clients, especially long-term ones, significantly strengthen the applicant's position.

Registration in the trade register becomes mandatory before applying for a visa. For individual entrepreneurs, it is enough to obtain a business ID, whereas more complex forms of entrepreneurship require full-fledged company registration.

The main package of documents includes a completed application form, a valid passport, color photographs, and a business plan that serves as the basis for the entire application. A 2-year financial forecast is required only for initial submission or significant changes in operations. Proof of professional qualifications (diplomas, certificates, letters of recommendation from previous employers) must be translated into Finnish, Swedish or English. A certificate of absence of a criminal record complements the basic set of documents.

For holders of a self-employment permit, tax obligations include the payment of income tax on global income.

Step-by-step action plan

What should I do after getting a visa?

The first month after entering Finland is accompanied by a number of mandatory actions. Timely steps ensure easy integration and access to all necessary services.

1. Registration in the Population Information system. After applying for a visa, the Immigration Service will automatically transfer the data to the Population Information system. Personal data will be registered there and a personal identification code will be assigned. You will need it to open a bank account, conclude contracts, and interact with government agencies.
2. Notification of the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV). Within a month of entry, you must personally visit the DVV service center (or International House Helsinki) to verify your identity and register with the Population Information System. At the same time, you can make an address change and receive a code.
3. Opening a bank account. The applicant applies to the bank with a personal identification code and a confirmed address. Most Finnish banks require a personal identification code and a lease agreement or proof of residence.
4. Registration in the Kela social insurance system. The Kela (Social Insurance) number provides access to public health care and health insurance benefits. The application is submitted to the local Kela office.
5. Registration in the pension system. Self-employed persons are required to have insurance under the YEL law. It is issued through an insurance company with an indication of income and start date.
6. VAT registration (if necessary). If the planned annual turnover exceeds 20,000 euros, the applicant is registered with the tax service as a VAT payer.

Advantages and disadvantages of the program

The Finnish program attracts stability and a high standard of living in the country, but imposes strict requirements on income and physical presence. Compared to a number of European countries, it seems less flexible, but it opens the way to obtaining permanent residence.

Advantages of the Finnish program

• Finland supports digital nomads through an existing system for the self-employed.
• The permit allows you to move freely in the 27 countries of the Schengen area.
• After registering with Kela, there are benefits in the healthcare and pension insurance system.
• After 4 years of continuous residence, it is possible to obtain permanent residence.
• Mandatory medical insurance and rental documents are not required. 

Disadvantages of the Finnish program

• It is necessary to stay in the country for at least 6 months a year.
• Two-stage registration at regional ELY centers, and then at the Migration Service.
• In self-employment, all sources of income are subject to Finnish income tax.

Comparing the Finnish program with other European countries, it is worth considering a number of jurisdictions offering lower income requirements and faster launch. However, Finland stands out for its full-fledged business model and social guarantees.