Finance News in Finland
It will be easier for foreign students and researchers to stay in Finland
According to the Government Program, the stay of foreign researchers, students and their families in Finland should be facilitated by extending residence permits and streamlining permit procedures. The aim of the proposal to make Finland a more attractive destination for skilled labour.
According to the Government proposal:
- Students would receive a residence permit for the entire duration of their studies. The student has to present a statement of his/her financial resources for the first year. However, a student should have sufficient financial resources available during the period of validity of the permit, and this matter will be monitored in different ways.
- The type of the residence permit for the higher education students would be changed from temporary (B) to continuous (A), which would make it easier for students to obtain a permanent residence permit. Family members would also receive type A permit. The amendment would not affect the obligation to pay tuition fees. It is expected to help students educated in Finland to become part of the Finnish labour market.
- Would also be extended a residence permit issued to researchers and graduates who have completed their research and studies, or the so-called job search permit, to two years. The permit would not need to be used immediately, but could be applied for within five years of graduation or completing the research.
The consultation round for the proposal takes place between 24 June and 20 August 2021. The Act is due to enter into force on 1 February 2022.
The full information and the source text can be found at Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment of Finland website.
Published 09.07.2021, FINREPO