Finland's Fast-Track Residence Permits for Skilled Workers

Finland has launched a fast-track service for skilled foreign workers, enabling certain professionals to obtain a residence permit within two weeks. The Finnish Immigration Service, known as Migri, specifies that this expedited process is available for individuals in five categories: specialists, ICT residence permit holders, top or middle management, EU Blue Card holders, and start-up founders.

To qualify, applicants must submit their applications through the Enter Finland online portal, complete all required documentation, pay the application fee, and confirm their identity within five working days. Employers of applicants in specific categories must also log in to the Enter Finland for Employers portal to add employment terms within two working days.

This fast-track service is exclusively for first-time residence permit applications, and those already in Finland or seeking to extend their permits must follow the standard process. Eligible applicants can also apply for a D visa, allowing immediate travel to Finland upon permit approval.

Family members can submit applications simultaneously, benefiting from the same expedited processing.