World Immigration News

(StudyTravel Network)Finland: tighter immigration rules proposed for international students

Release Date: 2026-05-13
Media: StudyTravel Network
Summary: The Finnish government has proposed new legislation to tighten rules for international students. The proposal, submitted to parliament on April 30, 2026, consists of two legislative packages.

The first package would allow residence permits to be cancelled if non-EU/EEA students receive social assistance. Even a single use of welfare benefits could lead to permit cancellation. If approved, the rule will take effect in autumn 2026.

The second package introduces stricter requirements, including higher income thresholds, language proficiency requirements, and broader grounds for refusing residence permits for upper secondary students and their families. It would also require international students to live in Finland for at least one year before family members can apply for residence permits.

The Finnish government says the measures are intended to ensure students can support themselves and comply with residence permit conditions. The proposals follow earlier immigration restrictions that have already reduced the number of student permits issued in Finland.
Tags: Finland

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