Finland investment visa
Finland, known for its economic stability and favorable business environment, offers an investment visa (visa for entrepreneurs) that enables foreign investors not only to conduct business but also to reside in the country. Obtaining this visa involves fulfilling several requirements and adhering to the registration process established by Finnish and European Union legislation.
Legal Basis for Obtaining an Investment Visa
The investment visa is granted to foreign nationals who plan to engage in business activities in Finland. This visa is issued under the Aliens Residence and Employment Act (Aliens Act, 301/2004) and the Business Act, which regulates entrepreneurship in Finland. Applicants must demonstrate their ability and commitment to establish a successful business that will contribute positively to the Finnish economy.
Basic Requirements for Applicants
To obtain an investment visa for Finland, applicants must meet the following conditions:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Business Plan | Submission of a detailed business plan outlining objectives, strategies, market analysis, and financial projections. |
| Financial Solvency | Proof of sufficient funds to realize the business and support living expenses in Finland. |
| Legality of Sources of Funds | Documentation to confirm that the funds used for investment are legally obtained. |
| Legal Compliance | Adherence to all local and international laws, including taxation and environmental regulations. |
Application Process
Step 1: Company Registration
Initially, applicants must register their business with the appropriate Finnish authorities, such as the Finnish Patent and Registration Agency (PRH) and the Tax Administration. Business registration is a prerequisite for visa application.
Step 2: Gathering the Necessary Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
Step 3: Submitting an Application
Once the documents are ready, the application must be submitted through the Finnish embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of residence or online via the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).
Step 4: Waiting for a Decision
Processing time can vary but typically takes between 2 to 4 months. The Finnish Immigration Service may request additional documents or information during this period.
Legal Rights and Obligations
Investors granted an investment visa acquire the right to:
- Conduct business in Finland.
- Reside in the country for the duration of the residence permit.
- Apply for visa extension upon expiry if conditions are met.
However, they are also obliged to:
- Comply with Finnish laws, including taxation, labor laws, and environmental regulations.
- Contribute to the country’s economy and demonstrate business stability.
Benefits of a Finland Investment Visa
An investment visa offers foreign investors several significant rights and privileges under Finnish and European law. Key benefits include:
1. Right of Residence and Long-Term Stay
Foreign investors who meet the requirements can legally reside in Finland for the duration of the visa, ensuring:
- Free movement within the country and participation in economic activities on par with residents.
- Long-term residence with potential for visa extension.
- The possibility of living in Finland with family.
2. Access to the European Market
Finland’s membership in the European Union (EU) offers investors the chance to:
- Operate within the EU’s single market for goods, services, capital, and labor.
- Move freely within the Schengen area for business relations and negotiations.
- Expand business horizons significantly by accessing EU member markets.
3. Stable and Transparent Legal System
Finland is recognized for its:
4. Tax Incentives and Attractive Tax Treatment
Finland provides favorable tax conditions for foreign investors, including:
- Tax breaks and incentives for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and innovative startups.
- A transparent tax system that aids in clear expense planning.
- Opportunities for tax planning through international double tax treaties.
5. Possibility of Obtaining Citizenship
Long-term residents actively involved in the Finnish economy may apply for a permanent residence permit and subsequently for Finnish citizenship, offering:
- Full access to social and economic rights.
- Visa-free travel within the EU.
- Protection and support from the Finnish state.
6. Favourable Conditions for Doing Business
Finland supports foreign investors with:
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Infrastructure | Modern technology and transport systems facilitate efficient business operations. |
| Talented Workforce | Access to a highly educated labor market ideal for technology and innovation enterprises. |
| Support for Startups | Numerous programs offer financial assistance, advice, and market access for new companies. |
Who Can Get a Finland Investment Visa?
The investment visa is available to foreign entrepreneurs and investors meeting strict criteria defined by Finnish and international laws.
General Conditions for Obtaining an Investment Visa
Key conditions include:
-
Existence of a Business Project
Applicants must present a viable business project that positively impacts the Finnish economy, such as job creation. -
Financial Solvency
Investors must demonstrate adequate funds for both their business and personal living expenses. -
Legality of Origin of Funds
Evidence of the lawful source of funds is required to prevent illegal transactions. -
Registering a Business
Business registration with Finnish authorities is mandatory prior to visa application.
Special Categories of Applicants
-
Highly Qualified Entrepreneurs
Attracts professionals with innovative business ideas in technology and science. -
Investors in Start-ups
Must have approved projects assessed through Finnish incubators or startup programs. -
Passive Investors
Investors who do not intend to actively manage a business but can prove their investment will foster economic growth.
Application Process for an Investment Visa
Business Registration
Preparation of Documents
Applying for an Investment Visa
Waiting for a Decision
Finland Investment Visa Requirements
The requirements for obtaining an investment visa are based on principles of transparency and economic benefit to the country. Key requirements include:
1. Availability of a Business Project or Investment Plan
Applicants must provide a detailed business plan that includes:
- A clear description of the business idea.
- Financial projections and job creation estimates.
2. Financial Solvency
Proof of financial solvency involves:
- Capital for investment and living expenses.
- Documents verifying the legality of the source of funds.
3. Registering a Business in Finland
Business registration is a prerequisite, ensuring compliance with Finnish laws.
4. Legal Compliance
Applicants must have a clean criminal record and comply with all relevant Finnish regulations.
5. Availability of Health Insurance
A valid health insurance policy covering all medical expenses during the stay is required.
6. Confirmation of Qualifications and Experience
For certain sectors, evidence of qualifications or professional experience may be necessary.
7. Compliance with Economic Benefit Criteria
Finland assesses projects based on their economic impact, job creation potential, and contribution to technological advancements.
Obtaining an investment visa to Finland presents foreign entrepreneurs with opportunities to thrive in one of Europe’s most stable economies. However, applicants must meet strict legal and financial requirements, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation and compliance with Finnish regulations. The potential benefits, including residency rights, access to the EU market, and favorable business conditions, make Finland an attractive destination for investment and long-term business endeavors.
Investment Options Available for the Finland Investment Visa
Finland, known for its stable and developed economy, offers foreign investors a variety of investment opportunities that can serve as a basis for obtaining an investment visa. However, to acquire such a residence permit, investors must fulfill specific requirements and select suitable investment options that meet legal criteria. This section discusses the primary investment options that qualify for an investment visa to Finland.
1. Starting a New Business
Description: One of the most common ways to obtain an investment visa is by establishing a new business in Finland. The investor must register a company that will actively conduct business and contribute economically to the country.
Legal Requirements:
- The business must be registered with the Finnish Finance Authority (Tax Administration) and the Finnish Patent and Registration Agency (PRH).
- The applicant must provide a business plan that includes revenue and expense projections, market assessment, development strategy, and information on job creation.
- The business must comply with Finnish legislation, including tax obligations and environmental standards.
Advantages:
- Long-term business and residency opportunities.
- Contribution to the Finnish economy, including job creation for Finnish citizens.
- Access to the European market and favorable tax conditions for entrepreneurs.
2. Investment in an Existing Finnish Company
Description: Another option is to invest in an existing Finnish company, either by buying shares in a private company or purchasing publicly traded shares.
Legal Requirements:
- The investor must submit documents confirming the legality of the origin of the funds used for acquiring shares or stocks.
- The investment must be sufficient for the investor to qualify for a residence permit.
- The company receiving the investment must be registered in Finland and actively operating.
Advantages:
- Minimizing risks associated with starting a new business by investing in an established enterprise.
- The opportunity to become an active participant in Finnish business without the need to set up a new company.
3. Property Investments
Description: While purchasing property in Finland alone does not qualify for an investment visa, investing in commercial property can be part of a broader business strategy, such as acquiring properties for rental, development, or operation.
Legal Requirements:
- The investor must provide proof of financial solvency and documentation verifying the legitimacy of the funds’ origin.
- The property purchase must be linked to a business activity, like renting it out or managing a commercial project.
- All property transactions must adhere to Finnish law, including taxation and property registration rules.
Advantages:
- Potential for steady income from rental properties.
- Long-term property investments can effectively diversify assets and enhance investment attractiveness.
4. Investments in Start-ups
Description: Finland actively supports innovative start-ups. Investing in technology or innovation start-ups can serve as a basis for obtaining an investment visa. The applicant can be an investor or co-founder of a start-up in key sectors such as IT, fintech, or biotechnology.
Legal Requirements:
- The investor must provide a comprehensive business plan demonstrating the innovative nature of the start-up and its growth potential.
- The start-up must be registered in Finland and meet the criteria of innovation support programs in the country.
- It’s crucial to demonstrate the start-up’s ability to create jobs and contribute to the Finnish economy.
Advantages:
- Opportunities to engage in high-growth innovation sectors.
- Access to various government support programs, including financial assistance and tax incentives for start-ups.
- Direct involvement in the development of Finland’s high-tech industries.
5. Passive Investments
Description: Passive investments may involve investing in funds or other financial instruments that allow the investor to earn income without active business management. This option suits investors looking to diversify their assets without direct involvement.
Legal Requirements:
- The investor must provide documentation verifying the availability of funds and their legal origin.
- Financial instruments for investment must be registered and legally operated in Finland.
- Passive investments must generate stable income sufficient to support the investor and their family living in Finland.
Advantages:
- Lower operational and management costs compared to starting a business.
- Stable income with minimal engagement in asset management.
6. Investments in Programs to Support Entrepreneurs
Description: Finland provides support to entrepreneurs through programs like start-up incubators and business accelerators. Investing in these programs or creating companies that meet state support criteria can be grounds for obtaining a visa.
Legal Requirements:
- The investor must undergo a procedure to assess the project’s innovativeness and obtain approval from specialized commissions and authorities.
- The business must align with the objectives and requirements of entrepreneurship support programs.
Advantages:
- Access to both public and private support through Finnish startup initiatives.
- Ability to grow and expand the business rapidly with additional resources and consulting assistance.
Finland presents a diverse array of investment opportunities that can serve as a foundation for acquiring an investment visa. From starting new businesses to investing in start-ups and real estate, each option has specific legal requirements and advantages. Selecting the appropriate investment route should be based on the applicant’s financial capacity, interests, and readiness to actively participate in the country’s economic landscape.
Finland investment visa for Indian
Finland, as one of the economically stable countries in the European Union, offers foreign investors, including Indian nationals, the opportunity to obtain an investment visa. This type of visa allows one to do business in Finland and reside in the country legally and also provides access to the European market. This article discusses the legal aspects of obtaining an investment visa to Finland for Indian citizens, including requirements, application process and conditions for investors.
1. Legal basis for obtaining an investment visa
The investment visa is regulated by the Finnish Aliens Residence and Employment Act (Aliens Act, 301/2004) and the Enterprise Act. These regulations set out the rules and requirements that a foreign national, including investors from India, must fulfil in order to obtain a residence permit in connection with business activities.
2. Requirements for obtaining an investment visa for Indian citizens
For an Indian citizen to get an investment visa to Finland, a number of criteria must be fulfilled:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| a. Existence of an Investment Project or Business | The applicant must demonstrate plans to establish or invest in a business in Finland. Project Viability: The business plan must detail operations, market assessment, anticipated revenues and costs, and economic benefits to Finland. Job Creation: The business should create new jobs for Finnish or EU citizens. |
| b. Financial Solvency | The investor must show sufficient funds for: 1. Business Investment: Covering costs of starting and running the business in Finland. 2. Residency: Ensuring the investor and family can cover personal expenses (housing, medical care, etc.). |
| c. Legality of Origin of Funds | Provide documents proving the legal origin of capital used for investment, including: 1. Bank statements. 2. Tax returns or other financial documents. 3. Contracts for the sale of assets or interests in a business. |
| d. Registering a Business in Finland | The applicant must register the business in Finland before applying for a visa, which includes: 1. Registration with the Finnish Patent and Registration Agency (PRH). 2. Registration with the Finnish Financial Administration (Tax Administration). |
3. Application procedure
a. Preparation of documents
The applicant will need to provide the following documents:
b. Submission of the application
Indian nationals can apply for an investment visa through:
- Embassy of Finland in India (in New Delhi).
- Finnish consulates in other cities in India (e.g. Mumbai).
- Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) via an online platform.
c. Consideration of the application
The processing time for an investment visa application may take from 2 to 6 months, depending on the completeness of the documents submitted and the volume of applications. The Finnish Immigration Service may request additional documents or information to clarify details.
4. Rights and obligations of investors after obtaining a visa
a. Rights
Indian nationals who have obtained an investment visa to Finland are granted the following rights:
- The right to reside in Finland for the duration of the visa (usually up to 4 years).
- The right to do business in Finland.
- Eligibility for visa extension in case of successful business and fulfilment of all obligations.
b. Duties
Investors are required to:
- Comply with Finnish legislation: this includes tax, labour and environmental laws.
- Contribute to the economy: investors must prove that their business makes a real contribution to the Finnish economy, including job creation and tax revenues.
5. Inclusion of family members in the application
Indian nationals who have been granted an investment visa can include their family members in their application. Under the family reunification programme, eligibility for a residence permit can be obtained by:
- Spouse.
- Minor children. Family members may apply separately for a residence permit on the basis of family reunification and reside in Finland together with the main applicant.
6. Possibility of obtaining citizenship
A Finnish investment visa can be the basis for obtaining Finnish citizenship. The basic conditions for obtaining citizenship include:
- Permanent residence in Finland for at least 5 years.
- Financial solvency and business success.
- Finnish or Swedish language skills sufficient for integration into society (level B1).
- Compliance with all Finnish laws, including no criminal record and no tax offences.
An investment visa to Finland offers Indian citizens a unique opportunity to not only do business in one of Europe’s most stable economies, but also to live in a country with a high standard of living. However, to successfully obtain a visa, one must fulfil stringent requirements including a viable business project, financial solvency and compliance with Finnish law. Careful adherence to all the conditions and proper preparation of documents will ensure the successful obtainment of an investment visa and open up access to long-term business and residence opportunities in Finland.
Finland investment visa for Pakistani
Finland, as one of the leading countries in the European Union, offers foreign investors the opportunity to obtain an investment visa, which allows them to do business and reside in the country. For Pakistani citizens, this visa is an important tool for establishing and developing business in one of the most stable economies in Europe. This article discusses the legal aspects of obtaining an investment visa to Finland for Pakistani nationals, including the basic requirements, application process and legal obligations.
1. Legal basis for obtaining an investment visa
An investment visa for Finland is granted on the basis of the Finnish Aliens Residence and Employment Act (Aliens Act, 301/2004) and the Enterprise Act. These acts regulate the granting of residence permits to foreign nationals, including investors who set up a business or invest in the economy.
2. Basic requirements for obtaining an investment visa
In order for a Pakistani national to qualify for an investment visa to Finland, a number of key conditions must be met:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| a. Availability of a Business Project | The applicant must provide evidence that he/she plans to establish a new business or invest in an existing company in Finland. Basic Business Requirements:
|
| b. Financial Solvency | The applicant needs to prove sufficient financial means for:
|
| c. Legality of Origin of Funds | The applicant must submit documents confirming the legality of the origin of the funds used for investment, which may include:
|
| d. Registering a Business in Finland | The business that the investor plans to set up must be registered in Finland before submitting the application, which requires:
|
3. Application procedure
a. Preparation of necessary documents
The applicant must collect and submit the following documents:
b. Submission of the application
Pakistani nationals can apply for an investment visa through:
- Embassy of Finland in Pakistan (Islamabad).
- Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) using online services.
c. Time frame for consideration of the application
The application process may take from 2 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of the case and the completeness of the documents submitted. The Finnish Immigration Service may request additional documents or information.
4. Rights and obligations of investors after obtaining a visa
a. Rights
Pakistani nationals who have been granted investment visa have the following rights:
- The right to reside in Finland for the duration of the visa (up to 4 years).
- The right to do business in Finland.
- Eligibility for visa extension in case of successful business.
b. Duties
Investors are required to:
- Comply with Finnish legislation: this includes tax, labour and environmental laws.
- Contribute to the economy: Businesses should operate sustainably and make a real contribution to the country’s economy, including creating jobs and paying taxes.
5. Inclusion of family members in the programme
Investors from Pakistan can include their family members in their investment visa application. Family members such as spouse and minor children are eligible for a residence permit on the basis of family reunification. This requires separate applications for each family member and documents proving family ties and availability of funds for their maintenance.
6. Possibility of obtaining Finnish citizenship
An investment visa can be the basis for obtaining Finnish citizenship. For this purpose it is necessary to:
- Permanent residence in Finland for at least 5 years with a residence permit.
- Financial solvency and stability of the business.
- At least B1 level of Finnish or Swedish.
- Compliance with legal requirements, including no criminal record and no tax offences.
An investment visa to Finland for Pakistani nationals provides a unique opportunity to do business and reside in a country with one of the most stable economies in Europe. It is important to understand that successful visa application requires compliance with all legal requirements, including preparation of a detailed business plan, business registration and proof of financial solvency. Fulfilment of all conditions and legally correct submission of documents will ensure successful receipt of an investment visa and open access to long-term business and residence opportunities in Finland.
Finland Investment Visa for Nepali Nationals
Finland offers attractive opportunities for Nepali nationals seeking to invest and establish business operations within the European Union. This guide provides an overview of the essential legal aspects, requirements, and processes for obtaining an investment visa or residence permit through investment in Finland.
1. Legal Basis for Obtaining an Investment Residence Permit
Although Finland does not have a specific “golden visa” program like Portugal or Spain, it allows foreign nationals, including Nepali citizens, to obtain a residence permit through business activities or substantial investments in the Finnish economy. This process is governed by the Aliens Residence Act (301/2004).
To qualify for a residence permit, applicants must demonstrate that they:
- Have made a substantial investment in a Finnish company.
- Have established or acquired a business in Finland.
- Play a significant role in the management of the business.
2. Criteria for Obtaining an Investment Residence Permit
To successfully apply for an investment residence permit, applicants must meet several key criteria:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Investment Amount | Although Finland does not specify a fixed amount, it is generally expected to be at least €100,000. |
| Form of Investment |
Investments can be made in sectors such as:
|
| Business Plan |
A detailed business plan outlining the investment’s contributions to the Finnish economy, including:
|
| Applicant’s Competence | Applicants must have relevant professional skills, business experience, and qualifications to actively manage the company. |
3. Application Procedure
The application process for an investment residence permit involves several steps:
-
Company Registration:
- Register your business in Finland through the Finnish Trade Register.
- Submit all necessary documents and pay the registration fee.
-
Document Preparation:
- Gather the following documents:
- Passport with at least six months of validity.
- Proof of investment (e.g., bank statements).
- Business plan and financial statements.
- Educational and professional credentials.
- Evidence of fee payments.
- Gather the following documents:
-
Application Submission:
- Submit your application at the Finnish Consulate in Nepal or through the online system Enter Finland.
- The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) will process your application.
-
Processing Time:
- Typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the case complexity and submitted documents.
4. Important Legal Aspects
-
Verification of Income Sources:
- Finland requires proof of legitimate income sources for investments. Suspicion of illegal funds may lead to permit denial.
-
Taxation:
- Investors become tax residents and are subject to Finnish tax rates, which can be high (up to 30-35%). Consulting a tax advisor is recommended.
-
Renewal of Residence Permit:
- Typically issued for 1-2 years and can be renewed upon demonstrating continued business success.
-
Permanent Residence and Citizenship:
- After four years of residence, investors can apply for permanent residency. After five years, they may apply for Finnish citizenship.
5. Reasons for Refusal of Residence Permit
Common reasons for permit denial include:
- Incomplete or inaccurate documentation.
- Inability to prove a legitimate source of income.
- Insufficient investment or lack of economic benefit.
- Inadequate qualifications to manage the business.
- Suspicions of misuse of the visa program.
For Nepali nationals, obtaining an investment visa to Finland is a promising pathway to residence and potential citizenship. However, it is crucial to meet Finnish investment requirements, engage in lawful business activities, and contribute to the country’s economic development. Potential applicants should pay attention to legal and tax implications and prepare their documentation meticulously to enhance their chances of success.
Finland Investment Visa for Bangladeshi Nationals
Similar to Nepali investors, Bangladeshi nationals also have access to investment opportunities in Finland. Here’s an overview tailored for Bangladeshi applicants.
1. Legal Framework for Investment Residence Permits
The Finnish Aliens Act (301/2004) governs the process of obtaining residence permits for Bangladeshi nationals through business investments. While Finland does not have a dedicated investment program, foreign investors can still secure permits based on significant investments in local businesses.
2. Basic Conditions for Obtaining an Investment Residence Permit
Bangladeshi nationals must fulfill the following criteria:
-
Substantial Economic Contribution:
- Investments should generally start from €100,000, based on the business sector.
-
Active Participation:
- Investors are required to actively manage the company and make crucial decisions.
-
Job Creation:
- While not a strict requirement, investments that create local jobs enhance approval chances.
-
Business Viability:
- A comprehensive business plan is necessary to demonstrate the project’s economic benefits to Finland.
3. Investment Visa Application Process
Key steps in the application process include:
-
Business Registration:
- Register your business at the Finnish Trade Register.
-
Document Submission:
- Required documents include:
- Proof of investment.
- Detailed business plan.
- Personal identification and income verification.
- Financial statements.
- Required documents include:
-
Application Processing:
- The Finnish Migration Board (Migri) will process the application, typically within 3 to 6 months.
-
Receiving a Decision:
- Approved applicants will receive a residence permit, allowing them to reside and conduct business legally in Finland.
4. Taxation and Financial Liabilities
Investors with a residence permit become tax residents and must pay taxes on global income. The progressive tax rate can range between 30-35% on personal income. It is advisable to consult tax advisors for optimal tax management.
5. Reasons for Refusal to Grant an Investment Residence Permit
The Finnish Immigration Service may reject applications for the following reasons:
- Illegitimate income sources.
- Inadequate business plans.
- Insufficient investments or lack of active management.
- Lack of relevant qualifications.
6. Benefits and Opportunities
An investment visa provides Bangladeshi nationals with several advantages:
-
Permanent Residence: After obtaining an investment residence permit, investors can reside and run their businesses in Finland.
-
Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: After four years, they can apply for a permanent residence permit, and after five years, for Finnish citizenship.
-
Access to EU Markets: Investors can operate not only in Finland but across the EU, benefiting from the free movement of capital and people.
In summary, the investment visa to Finland presents a significant opportunity for Bangladeshi investors to expand their business ventures in a stable European economy. Success in obtaining a residence permit relies on meticulous document preparation and adherence to Finnish legal requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, family members can be included in the application for an investment visa to Finland. Under Finnish law, immediate family members such as spouses and minor children have the right to apply for residence permits through family reunification provisions. To include family members, the main applicant must meet several legal requirements regulated by Finnish migration law. This includes providing proof of family ties, such as marriage and birth certificates, and demonstrating financial solvency to support family members while they reside in Finland. The investor must show that they have sufficient funds to cover housing, daily living expenses, health insurance, and, if applicable, education costs. Furthermore, family members must also undergo background checks, including criminal record verification, to ensure there are no legal barriers to their inclusion in the visa application.
The financial requirements for obtaining an investment visa in Finland are critical to ensure that applicants can support themselves and their family members without relying on state assistance. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover living costs in Finland, which includes housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and other daily expenses. This can be substantiated through various documents such as bank statements, proof of income, and financial statements if the applicant owns an existing business. The Finnish authorities require investors to prove their ability to sustain themselves and their family members for the duration of their stay in Finland, thereby avoiding any potential economic burden on the country’s social welfare system. As part of the application, detailed financial projections and a comprehensive business plan outlining how the investor intends to generate income in Finland may also be necessary.
While the investment visa does not automatically grant citizenship, it serves as a pathway to obtaining Finnish citizenship under certain conditions. Investors can apply for Finnish citizenship after residing in the country for a minimum of five years with a valid residence permit, provided they meet specific criteria. These criteria include maintaining financial solvency throughout their residence, demonstrating stable business operations, and adhering to all Finnish laws and regulations. Furthermore, applicants must pass a language proficiency test in Finnish or Swedish and show proof of integration into Finnish society. It is essential to renew the investment visa as needed, as the applicant’s ability to demonstrate active participation in their business is closely monitored by Finnish authorities. Once citizenship is granted, individuals gain full civil rights, including the ability to vote and access to social benefits, as well as European Union citizenship, allowing for the freedom to live and work across EU member states.
The process of family reunification under the investment visa programme involves several legal conditions that the main applicant must fulfill. First and foremost, the investor must prove financial stability and the ability to support their family members throughout their stay in Finland. This includes documenting funds for housing, daily expenses, health insurance, and educational costs if applicable. Additionally, the applicant must provide legal documentation confirming family ties, such as marriage certificates for spouses and birth certificates for children. In certain cases, economically dependent family members, like elderly parents, may also qualify for residence permits, but proof of total dependency is required. Each family member must file a separate application for a residence permit under the family reunification provisions, which can be submitted simultaneously with or following the main applicant’s investment visa application. The processing time for family reunification applications typically ranges from three to six months, during which the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) thoroughly evaluates all submitted documentation.
The processing time for an investment visa application in Finland can vary significantly based on individual circumstances and the completeness of the application submitted. Generally, the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) aims to process these applications within several months. Factors that can influence processing times include the applicant’s background, the complexity of the business plan, and the volume of applications being processed at that time. Additionally, the processing of residence permits for family members typically takes between three to six months, starting from the date of submission. During this period, Migri will conduct thorough checks on all submitted documents and may request additional information or clarification if necessary. It is crucial for applicants to ensure that all required documentation is complete and accurate to avoid delays in the processing of their applications. By adhering to all legal requirements and maintaining open communication with Migri, applicants can facilitate a smoother and more efficient application process.