When do Ukrainians need a visa to Finland and how to apply for one?

Finland is a popular destination for Ukrainians thanks to its stability, high quality of life and openness to foreigners. But before travelling there, it is important to understand when you need a visa and how to apply for one. Find out more about the types of visas for Finland, the necessary documents and how to avoid common mistakes when applying.

Legal assistance on visa issues for Ukrainians

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Planning a trip to Finland? For many Ukrainians who have a biometric passport, a short trip to this northern country does not require a visa. However, this only applies to stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen area. If the purpose of your trip is study, work or a long stay, a visa or residence permit is required.

Understanding the visa requirements is the key to a smooth and successful trip. Errors in documents or choosing the wrong type of visa can lead to delays or even refusal.

When exactly do Ukrainians need a visa to Finland, what documents to prepare, how to avoid common mistakes, and why it is worth turning to professionals — we will tell you more in this article.

Detailed information that you need to know before moving to Finland can be found at the following links:

– Travel to Finland for tourism purposes;

– Working in Finland;

– Immigration to Finland;

– Studying in Finland.

– Temporary protection in Finland.

Do you need a visa but don't know where to start?

Get a consultation from the lawyers of Visit Ukraine!

When do Ukrainians need a visa to enter Finland?

Ukrainian citizens who have a biometric passport can travel to Finland, a member of the Schengen Area, without a visa for up to 90 days during each 180-day period. This applies to trips for tourism, private or business purposes. This regime greatly simplifies the organisation of short trips, particularly for leisure or meetings with partners.

However, there are exceptions when a visa is still required:

– Long-term stay. If you plan to stay in Finland for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a national D visa or a residence permit. This applies to trips for study, employment, medical treatment or other long-term purposes.

– Purpose of the trip. If the trip has a specific purpose — work, study, family reunification, etc. — you must apply for the appropriate visa. Such trips are not covered by the visa-free regime and require a separate residence permit.

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How to apply for a visa to enter Finland?

Step 1. Determine the type of visa.

Determine the purpose of your trip and the appropriate type of visa:

– Short-term visa (type C) for stays of up to 90 days.

– Long-term visa (type D) for stays of more than 90 days.

– Residence permit for a long stay for a specific purpose.

Step 2. Prepare your documents.

The package of documents may vary depending on the purpose of your trip, and having all the necessary papers is essential for a successful visa application, which is why it is important to pay close attention to the collection and preparation of documents.

Step 3. Appointment for submission of documents.

Make an appointment to submit your documents to the Finnish consulate or visa centre. This can usually be done online through the relevant portal.

Step 4. Submission of documents and payment of fees.

Submit the prepared documents in person at the appointed time. Pay the visa fee (depending on the type of visa and the age of the applicant).

Step 5. Awaiting a decision.

The standard processing time for an application is up to 15 calendar days. In some cases, an expedited procedure is possible.

Step 6. Obtaining a visa.

After a positive decision, you will receive your passport with a visa. Check that the information entered is correct.

What documents are required for a visa to Finland?

– A passport valid for at least 3 months after the planned date of departure.

– Visa application form.

– Passport-size photo.

– Proof of financial solvency (bank statements, certificates from your place of work).

– Proof of the purpose of the trip (invitation, contract, certificate from an educational institution, etc.).

– Ticket reservations or confirmation of other means of transport.

– For minors — parental consent if they are travelling without one of their parents.

– Insurance policy covering medical expenses within the Schengen area for at least €30,000.

By the way, you can get medical insurance for travelling abroad on the Visit Ukraine portal.

The policy meets all Schengen requirements and provides reliable protection while you're in another country.

How can you avoid mistakes when applying for a visa to Finland?

Some of the most common mistakes are:

– Incomplete set of documents. Check the current list of required documents.

– Invalid passport. Make sure your passport is valid and has enough blank pages.

– Insufficient financial means. Provide proof of sufficient funds for your stay.

– Incorrectly completed application form. Fill in all fields of the application form carefully.

– No medical insurance. Take out insurance that meets the requirements.

To avoid such mistakes, it is advisable to contact professionals who will help you fill out the documents correctly and prepare the necessary papers.

Why should you contact Visit Ukraine lawyers to apply for a visa to Finland?

Applying for a visa is not just a matter of filling out a form. It is a complex process that requires attention to detail and clear organisation. Visit Ukraine lawyers have experience in preparing visa packages and can ensure that your documents for travel to Finland are completed without errors.

Visit Ukraine lawyers can help with the following issues:

– Choosing the type of visa.

– Preparation of all necessary documents.

– Appointment for document submission and full support.

– Assistance in difficult situations during the visa application process.

Book a consultation on the Visit Ukraine portal and leave all your visa worries to the professionals!

Reminder! Finland is one of the most attractive countries for emigration. This is the opinion of people all over the world, based on statistics and ratings. Read here about the conditions of entry to Finland for

Ukrainians, how to apply for a visa, find a job and obtain a permanent residence permit.

Photo: Adobe Stock

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