Foreign students planning to study in Finland this year can expect prioritised processing of residence permit applications at the embassies in New Delhi, Kathmandu, and Abu Dhabi during June and July. This is to ensure that students can begin their studies on time in autumn 2025, given the increase in the number of student and family member applications at these locations.
Over 2,645 Indian students are currently studying in Finland, and the Indian community in the country has grown to around 22,000 in recent years. Students who have been admitted to a higher education institution or another educational institution in Finland that leads to a degree or vocational qualification need to apply for a residence permit for studies. This permit is required if the stay in Finland will exceed 90 days.
Applications for a first residence permit are generally submitted from outside Finland. Submitting the first application from within Finland can result in a negative decision. First-time international students and foreign workers must apply for this permit before arriving.
The application process begins on the ‘Enter Finland’ online service. After submitting the application, students must book an appointment at a Finnish embassy or consulate to confirm their identity. Although student applications are prioritised, this may delay the identification process for accompanying family members.
As of 29 April 2025, around 1,247 applications for a first residence permit for studies were pending or being processed. Since 1 January 2025, a total of 2,099 such applications have been decided. Approximately 75% of applicants receive a decision within 30 days. Currently, embassies are handling applications from individuals who confirmed their identity on or after 10 October 2024.
