Finland has officially implemented new and stricter rules for family reunification residence permits, impacting many migrants seeking to reunite with loved ones. According to the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri), these legislative changes took effect on June 16, 2024, and are part of the Finnish government’s broader initiative to tighten migration policy, strengthen social integration, and prevent exploitation of vulnerable individuals, particularly minors.

If you need expert help with Finnish or EU family visa rules, contact EU Prime Serwis today or use the contact form to get personalized support.

What Has Changed in Finland’s Family Reunification Permit Rules?

These new amendments affect residence permit applicants based on family ties, and include age limits, financial requirements, and residency duration conditions for sponsors.

1. Minimum Age Requirement Introduced for Spouses

For the first time, Finland has introduced a minimum age requirement for both applicants and their spouses seeking a family reunification residence permit:

• Both the applicant and their spouse must be at least 21 years old.

• Exception: If the couple has a child in joint custody, the age limit is waived, and a permit can still be granted.

This age-based restriction is designed to prevent forced or early marriages and protect young individuals from exploitation.

2. New Financial Support Requirements for Certain Family Members

The updated legislation also changes the income requirement for family reunification in specific cases:

• If the sponsor is a minor under subsidiary or temporary protection, or if extended family members are applying (not parents), the income requirement must be met.

• No income requirement applies if:

  • The applicant is a family member of an unaccompanied minor refugee, or

  • Family members apply within three months of the sponsor receiving a positive asylum decision.

These financial rules aim to ensure economic stability for families being reunited under humanitarian grounds.

Two-Year Residency Requirement for Sponsors

Sponsors (refugees or those under subsidiary protection) must now meet a minimum two-year residence condition in Finland before their family members can apply.

Exemptions apply if:

• The family lived together before the sponsor arrived in Finland

• It serves the best interest of the child

• There are strong humanitarian or compelling personal reasons

Who Is Affected?

• These changes apply to all new applications submitted on or after June 15, 2024

• Old applications, including extension applications based on previously granted permits, are not affected by the new rules

Why Has Finland Introduced These Changes?

As explained by the Finnish government and confirmed in the May 2024 parliamentary session, these legislative updates are aimed at:

• Reducing uncontrolled migration

• Encouraging integration into Finnish society

• Protecting minors and vulnerable groups

• Ensuring that family reunification is financially and socially sustainable

Need Help Applying for a Family Reunification Visa in Finland?

Applying under the new rules can be challenging without proper guidance. At EU Prime Serwis, our experts specialize in family-based residence permits, visa applications, and legal requirements for reunification across Europe, including Finland, Sweden, Germany, and the Netherlands.

Start your application or speak to a consultant now via our secure contact form:
https://euprimeserwis.pl/contact-us