Immigration Lawyer in Finland
Finnish immigration law determines who can live, work and stay in Finland. We help English-speaking clients with residence permits, appeals and dealings with the Finnish Immigration Service — in clear English.
Our service
Immigration law in Finland (ulkomaalaisoikeus) is governed by the Aliens Act (ulkomaalaislaki) and administered by the Finnish Immigration Service (Maahanmuuttovirasto, commonly called Migri). It covers residence permits, family ties, employment-based permits, entrepreneurship, international protection, citizenship, and appeals against negative decisions. The rules are detailed and change often, and decisions can seriously affect your life in Finland.
We help you understand the requirements, prepare a strong application, respond to requests for additional information, and appeal when a decision is negative. We handle everything in English — you do not need to navigate Migri or Finnish administrative courts alone.
When you need a lawyer
Residence permits
You are applying for a residence permit on the basis of family, work, study, or other grounds and need help preparing the application.
Family ties
You want to bring a spouse, registered partner, or child to Finland on the basis of family ties (perheside).
Employment and entrepreneurship
You need a work-based residence permit, or you want to start a business in Finland and need an entrepreneur's permit.
Negative decisions and appeals
Migri has refused your permit, issued a deportation order, or you have received a negative decision you want to appeal.
Entry bans
You have been issued an entry ban (maahantulukielto) and want to understand or challenge it.
Dealings with Migri
You have received a request for additional information (lisäselvityspyyntö) or your case is delayed and you need to follow up.
How it works
- 1
Assessment
We review your situation, the grounds for your permit, and the documents you have, and explain your options under Finnish law.
- 2
Application preparation
We prepare and submit a complete application to Migri or the Finnish embassy, with all required documents and a clear explanation of your grounds.
- 3
Additional information
If Migri requests more information, we help you respond accurately and on time.
- 4
Appeal
If you receive a negative decision, we file an appeal with the Administrative Court (hallinto-oikeus) within the deadline — usually 30 days from the decision.
- 5
Further appeal
If needed, we can appeal further to the Supreme Administrative Court (KHO).
What you need
- Valid passport
- Existing residence permit or decision (if any)
- Proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates)
- Employment contract or business plan (for work or entrepreneur permits)
- Proof of income and health insurance
- Any correspondence or decisions from Migri
- Identification photos
How costs are formed
Fees are based on the time spent and the complexity of your case. A straightforward application costs less than a contested appeal. We provide a written cost estimate before starting any work.
Immigration matters are generally not covered by Finnish legal aid, but some appeals may qualify depending on your income. We assess this for you.
We do not promise a specific outcome or processing time. Migri's processing times vary, and decisions depend on the facts of your case and the applicable law. We work to give your application the strongest possible basis.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Finnish Immigration Service?
The Finnish Immigration Service (Maahanmuuttovirasto, or Migri) is the government authority that processes residence permit, asylum, and citizenship applications. It is part of the Finnish Ministry of the Interior and operates under the Aliens Act.
How long does a residence permit decision take?
Processing times vary depending on the type of permit and the volume of applications. Migri publishes estimated processing times, but they are not guarantees. We help you submit a complete application to avoid delays, but we cannot promise a specific timeline.
Can I appeal a negative decision?
Yes. If Migri refuses your application, you can appeal to the Administrative Court (hallinto-oikeus) within 30 days of receiving the decision. We prepare and file the appeal on your behalf.
What is an entry ban?
An entry ban (maahantulukielto) prohibits you from entering Finland for a set period. It can be issued for reasons such as a threat to public order, security, or health. We help you understand the grounds and explore whether the ban can be lifted or appealed.
Can I work while my application is being processed?
It depends on the type of permit and your current status. Some permits allow you to work, others do not. We advise you on your right to work based on your specific situation.
Do you help with citizenship applications?
Yes. We advise on the requirements for Finnish citizenship, including residence periods and language skills, and help prepare the application. We also help with appeals if a citizenship application is refused.
Service in Vantaa and remotely across Finland
Our office is located at Merikotkantie 1, 01450 Vantaa. We serve clients in person in the Helsinki metropolitan area and remotely across all of Finland. All communication and documents can be handled in English — no Finnish required.
Contact an English-speaking lawyer
Get in touch for an initial assessment of your situation. We respond in English and guide you through Finnish law clearly.