Residence Permit Process Overview
Below is a general overview of your expected student visa or residence permit application process. Step-by-step instructions on how to apply for your student visa will be posted below as soon as they are updated for your specific departure cycle. As instructions are posted for your program and cycle, you will receive an email notification.
The visa application process, including requirements and fees, are subject to change.
What type of visa do I need?
You will be applying for a Residence Permit for Finland.
How do I apply for the residence permit?You must apply for your residence permit through the Consulate Offices of the Finnish Embassy which has jurisdiction over your state (located in Washington DC, New York City, and Los Angeles). You will be required to apply in-person with your passport and additional required documents and get fingerprinted for a biometric residence permit card.
What documents will I need to collect in order to apply for the residence permit?- United States Passport valid at least six months after your return
- Residence Permit Application Form
- Passport-sized Photographs
- Parental Consent Form (who needs to sign?)
- Proof of Financial Resources (must show proof of access to USD $120 a month for the duration of your stay)
You will also receive additional documents from AFS-USA and AFS-Finland necessary for applying for your residence permit.
Requirements may vary between Consulates. Additional documents may be required. Do not begin the residence permit process until you are notified by AFS.
When do I apply for the residence permit?You must apply in-person for your residence permit with your passport and required documents within two months of your departure.
How much will the residence permit cost?The Consulate will charge a processing fee of $237 USD for students under the age of 18 at the time of application and $330 USD for students over 18 at the time of application. Please be advised that these fees often fluctuate due to exchange rate changes.
Are there any other expected costs?There are many additional costs involved in obtaining and notarizing the required documents. There are also additional costs associated with traveling to the Consulate for an in-person appointment.
Are any of these costs covered in my AFS program tuition?No, your program fee does not cover any of the costs related to obtaining your passport or residence permit.
Can I travel before the start of my program?AFS recommends that you not plan any travel outside of the United States during the two months before your program departs. Obtaining a residence permit takes time and your passport is usually required for this. Should you choose to travel within the two months before the start of your program and not allow enough time to procure your residence permit, you will run the risk of jeopardizing your travel arrangements.
Full Residence Permit Instructions
Finland Year and Semester Program Visa Instructions (.pdf)
Sample Resident Permit for Study Application
Resident Permit for Study Application (OLE_OPI) (.pdf)
If you are participating in a Summer program to Finland please see the Visa Information for Summer Program.
Fees and requirements are determined by immigration authorities and are subject to change at any time. For help with any terms, please view the Visa Glossary.
