As reported by Yle
The Finnish Ministry of the Interior announced tightened requirements for obtaining a permanent residence permit, which will take effect on January 8, 2026.
According to Ukrinform, the information was confirmed by the Finnish news outlet Yle.
“The conditions for obtaining a permanent residence permit in Finland will become stricter as of January 8, 2026.”
– Ukrinform
Key Changes and Requirements
The new rules require a longer period of residence in Finland, a higher level of proficiency in Finnish or Swedish, and the corresponding work experience.
One of the main changes to the Aliens Act will be to increase the minimum residence period required to obtain permanent residence from four to six years.
“According to the government program, applicants must adhere to the rules of society, work, and study the language.”
– Mari Rantanen
The explanatory note from the relevant agency states that individuals who have lived in Finland for six years can generally obtain permanent residence, provided they have satisfactory proficiency in Finnish or Swedish and at least two years of work experience in the country.
In this context, the government continues to explain that the process requires compliance with the general requirements of the law, including integration through language training and active participation in work.
This initiative is part of Finland’s overall migration policy aimed at more rigorous selection of permanent-residence candidates and supporting their integration into society.