Last update: Apr 10, 2025
Finland provides a conducive business environment, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and investors alike. According to the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business rankings, Finland consistently ranks high in areas like transparency and starting a business. Finland’s commitment to sustainability and a well-functioning society with strong institutions further strengthens its appeal.
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Finland Startup Visa Program
Finland Startup Visa ProgramThe Finland Startup Visa Program, launched in 2018, streamlines residency for non-EU entrepreneurs with innovative ideas and high-growth potential. It targets founders who are willing to establish their company in Finland. Applicants need a strong business plan, access to sufficient resources and funding for the company’s early-stage development, and secure financial means for personal support. This program grants a 2-year residence permit with renewal possibilities.
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Why Choose Finland
Why Choose FinlandFinland’s Economy: Gradual Recovery Amid Global Challenges
Finland’s economy is emerging from a prolonged recession, with GDP contracting by 0.5% in 2024, but forecasts indicate a slow rebound of 1.1–1.5% growth in 2025, driven by recovering exports and domestic demand. While challenges like high public debt (projected at 85.3% of GDP by 2026) and unemployment (8.3% in 2024) persist, the economy is bolstered by:
- Green transition: Finland leads in decarbonization, with startups like Steady Energy revolutionizing sustainable heating solutions.
- High-tech leadership: A thriving tech sector, with AI, quantum computing, and green energy startups attracting global attention.
- R&D investment: Government grants for sustainable ventures (e.g., €500,000 for cleantech startups) and tax incentives for innovation.
Finland’s Startup Ecosystem: A Global Innovation Hub
Finland’s startup landscape has grown to 4,200+ startups and 13 unicorns as of 2025, supported by:
- Global competitiveness: Ranked #1 in the EU for digital readiness, Finland offers a stable regulatory environment and access to Nordic markets.
- Targeted funding: Business Finland’s R&D grants have increased employment by 15% and turnover by 22% in supported startups.
- Sector specialization: Dominance in AI, quantum computing, and biotech, with startups like QMill and SemiQon advancing cutting-edge technologies.
Startup Support: From Ideation to Scale-Up
Finland’s support infrastructure ensures startups thrive even during economic headwinds:
- Co-working ecosystems: Affordable hubs like Urban Office in Helsinki foster collaboration, with 30+ spaces nationwide.
- Funding access: Grants up to €500,000 for sustainable ventures via Business Finland, alongside private investments (e.g., Onego Bio’s €69M funding for biotech innovation).
- Incubators & accelerators: Programs like Maria 01 (Nordic’s largest startup hub) and Kiuas (deep-tech focus) provide mentorship and networking.
Quality of Life: Balancing Prosperity and Wellbeing
Finland continues to rank #1 in the World Happiness Report (2024), offering:
- Sustainable living: 75% forest coverage, carbon-neutral cities by 2030 goals, and clean energy initiatives.
- Social safety net: Universal healthcare, free education, and unemployment benefits exceeding EU averages.
- Work-life balance: 30+ days of annual leave, gender-neutral parental leave, and flexible remote work policies.
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Who Can Apply for a Finland Startup Visa?
Who Can Apply for a Finland Startup Visa?Eligibility
The Finland Startup Visa targets innovative and scalable startups. At least two founders with complementary expertise (technical, financial, operational) must plan to relocate to Finland. Each founder must hold at least 60% ownership in the company.
Resources Needed
- Personal Funds: €1,030–€1,210/month (depending on location) to cover living expenses, totaling €12,360–€14,520 annually per founder.
- Business Funding: Proof of early-stage development funding (grants, investments, savings).
Business Plan Requirements
- Innovations distinct from existing global solutions (excluding restaurants and consultancies).
- Demonstrated potential for fast international growth.
- Full-time dedication to the startup in Finland.
- Intent to establish a fast-growing company contributing to Finland’s economy.
Finland Startup Visa Process
Finland Startup Visa ProcessStep 1: Obtain an Eligibility Statement from Business Finland
- Process: Submit a business plan, team CVs, and passports via the Enter Finland Platform .
- Documents: Business plan, CVs, and passports.
- Processing Time: 2–3 months due to high demand.
- No Fee: Application remains free.
Step 2: Apply for the Residence Permit
- Process: Each founder submits an individual application upon entering Finland.
- Documents Required:
- Valid passport (6+ months validity).
- Business Finland’s Eligibility Statement (≤4 months old).
- Proof of personal and business funds.
- CVs and proof of company ownership (share certificates).
- Processing Time: 1–2 months for standard applications; 14 days for fast-track electronic applications (€450 fee).
Step 3: Identity Verification & Biometrics
- To submit original documents and fingerprints, visit a Finnish embassy (abroad) or Finnish Immigration Service office (in Finland).
Step 4: Fast-Track Option
- Electronic applications can be processed in 14 days (vs. standard 1–2 months). Fee: €450 (online) or €520 (paper).
Step 5: D Visa for Immediate Travel
- Apply for a D visa alongside the residence permit to enter Finland immediately after approval.
Key Updates for 2025
- Eligibility Statement Delays: Plan for 2–3 months due to high application volumes.
- Biometric Requirement: Mandatory in-person verification added in 2024.
- Documentation: Include financial forecasts and customer agreements to strengthen applications.
- Work Restrictions: The permit is tied to the startup; other employment requires separate authorization.
- Family Requirements: Additional €520/month per adult and €310–€520/month per child.
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Finland’s Required Documents
Finland’s Required DocumentsMandatory:
- Valid passport + bio page copy.
- Passport-sized photo (Finnish standards).
- Eligibility Statement from Business Finland.
- Proof of legal stay (if applying from a non-home country).
Financial Proof:
- Personal: Bank statements (€12,360 – €14,520/year per founder).
- Business: Funding decisions, investor agreements, or company accounts.
Business Documentation:
- Detailed business plan with market analysis and scalability.
- Shareholder register or ownership certificates.
Post-Approval
- Residence Permit Validity: 2 years, renewable for up to 4 years total if milestones are met.
- Renewal: No new Eligibility Statement required unless requested by authorities.
Establishing a Company in Finland
- Register your company with the Finnish Patent and Registration Office (PRH) within 3 months of arrival.
- Utilize resources like Business Guide for tax registration, VAT compliance, and local market insights.
- Access incubators (e.g., Maria 01) and funding programs (e.g., Business Finland grants up to €500,000).
- Co-working spaces like Urban Office in Helsinki offer networking opportunities.
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Renewing Your Startup Permit
Renewing Your Startup Permit- Apply for renewal 3 months before expiration via the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).
- Submit proof of business continuity (financial statements, customer contracts, revenue reports) and updated personal funds evidence (€12,360 – €14,520/year).
- Duration: Up to 2 years, with a total permit duration of 4 years.
Family Requirements
Family Requirements- Additional monthly income thresholds for family members:
- 1st Adult: €1,030/month
- 2nd Adult: €520/month
- 1st Child: €520/month
- 2nd Child: €410/month
- 3rd–5th Children: €310/month
Corporate Tax Rate
Corporate Tax Rate- Rate: 20% for both domestic and foreign companies.
- Key Updates:
- Pillar Two Implementation: OECD guidelines ensure multinational corporations pay a minimum effective tax rate of 15%.
- Tax Incentives: Credits for R&D investments (up to €500,000 for sustainable ventures) and startup investments.
- Public Service Broadcasting Tax: Companies with taxable income ≥€50,000 pay €140 annually, plus 0.35% of income exceeding this threshold (capped at €3,000).
Cost of Living in Finland
Cost of Living in Finland- Monthly Estimates (Excluding Rent):
- Household of 4: €3,348–€4,338
- Single Person: €920–€2,233
- Key Expenses:
- Groceries: €600–€800 for a household of 4; €200–€300 for a single person.
- Utilities: €124–€370 for a household of 4; €50–€200 for a single person.
- Transport: €270–€720 for a household of 4; €28–€270 for a single person.
- Healthcare: €300–€660 for a household of 4; €20–€30 for a single person.
Budgeting Tips
- Housing: Opt for shared accommodations or suburban areas to reduce rent by 30–50%.
- Groceries: Shop at discount chains (e.g., Lidl) and prioritize seasonal produce.
- Transport: Use bike-sharing (€30–€60/month) or city cards for discounted public transit.
Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship
Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship- Initial Permit: Valid for 2 years, renewable for up to 4 years total if the startup demonstrates growth.
- Permanent Residency: Eligible after 4 years of continuous residence under the Startup Permit.
- Citizenship Application:
- Residency Requirement: 5 years of continuous residence (exceptions for spouses of Finnish citizens).
- Language Proficiency: B1-level fluency in Finnish, Swedish, or Sami.
- Additional Criteria: Clean criminal record and proof of stable income.
Role of Launchroad in The Seccess of Your Startup Visa
LaunchRoad is your trusted partner for starting a business abroad. We guide you in choosing the right country, understanding visa requirements, and getting your startup off the ground. As an experienced startup visa consultant, we offer expert startup visa consultation to help you navigate the complexities of international expansion. Our team provides the support, mentorship, and resources you need to succeed in the global market.
Thanks a ton for this! finally found a clear explainer on startup visa 🙌
Thanks so much, Emma! 😊 We’re really glad it helped — if you ever need more details or have questions about your own application, feel free to reach out or book a free call! 💬🚀
This was good but maybe add more real founder stories?
Great point, Sahil — thanks for the feedback! 🙏 We’re actually working on adding real founder case studies in the next update. Stay tuned — and if you’ve got a story to share, we’d love to hear it! 🚀
Can one founder apply or is 2 required?
Hi Lina,
Great question! According to the Finnish Startup Permit guidelines, the program requires a startup team with at least two founders who possess versatile expertise and are planning to move to Finland. This means that a single founder would not meet the eligibility criteria for this specific permit. However, if you’re a solo entrepreneur, you might consider applying for a different type of residence permit, such as the entrepreneur’s residence permit, which has different requirements and does not mandate a team of founders.
lol this sounds like a scam wrapped in paperwork
Hey Carlos
totally get where you’re coming from. Visa processes can feel overwhelming and bureaucratic, especially when you’re just starting to explore options. That’s exactly why we created this guide to make things clearer and more transparent.
If you’re ever curious to dig deeper or want to hear real stories from founders who’ve used this route, we’re happy to share. Appreciate you checking out the post either way!
I moved to Helsinki last year
everything about co-working here is true
Love hearing that, Jia! 🙌 Helsinki’s startup scene really is something special.
I think the public broadcasting tax kicks in at €50k+, not all startups pay
You’re absolutely right, Mika! The public broadcasting tax applies to companies with taxable income of €50,000 or more. For those exceeding this threshold, the tax is €140 plus 0.35% of the amount over €50,000, capped at €3,000 per year. So, startups with lower income may not be subject to this tax. Thanks for highlighting this!
this was super helpful… bookmarking for when I apply
Thanks, Tasha! Wishing you all the best when you apply — we’ve got your back! 😊
I wish there was a video version of this too
Great idea, Igor! A video version is definitely on our radar 🎥👌
What if I don’t have funding yet, can I still apply?
Hi Sophia
Great question! While you don’t need confirmed external funding, you must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support yourself in Finland.
This can include personal savings, income from your startup, or other regular income sources.
For 2025, the required net income is at least €1,030 to €1,210 per month, depending on your location in Finland. You need to show that you have enough funds for at least one year, totaling approximately €12,360 to €14,520. These funds should be in your own bank account.
I run a newsletter for startup migrants
this is great context
That’s awesome David. Glad the post was useful.
waste of time reading this all governments lie
Hey Anika
We hear your frustration. These processes can feel slow and complicated, but we’re here to help make things clearer and more doable if you ever change your mind.
Maria01 is AMAZING btw, I got in and the support is 💯
That’s awesome, Leo! Maria01 really is a gem in the Nordic startup scene 🙌
Anyone tried applying from Africa? curious if approval chances differ
Hey Niko 🙌
The Finland Startup Visa is definitely open to founders from anywhere in the world, including Africa. While they don’t publish approval rates by region, what really matters is whether your application meets the core requirements:
– A strong, innovative business idea with real international growth potential
– A team of at least two founders with complementary skills
– Enough personal savings to cover your living costs while you build your startup in Finland
Business Finland focuses on the quality of your startup and team, not where you’re from. So if you’ve got the right foundation, your application stands a solid chance 💪
And if you’d like some help along the way, feel free to book a free call with us — we’d be happy to walk you through it! 🚀
My friend got rejected for low funding proof so save more!
Thanks for sharing that, Leo. A great reminder! 💡 Having enough personal funds is super important for a smooth approval.
Also renewals sometimes DO ask for a new Eligibility Statement
You’re absolutely right, Samantha!
While a new Eligibility Statement isn’t typically required for renewals, the Finnish Immigration Service may request one if they need updated information. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for such requests during the renewal process. Thanks for pointing that out!
That €29 guide sounds worth it honestly, $1000s in value
Thanks, Chloe! 🙌
We packed it with everything founders need. Glad it feels valuable to you! 💡💼
I’m applying in June, fingers crossed
this helped a lot
That’s awesome, Ali! Fingers crossed for you 🤞 Really glad the post helped 💪
Technically, not all founders need to relocate immediately
Good point, Victor. You’re right, founders can phase their relocation depending on the business plan and setup timeline. Thanks for pointing it out!
Finland is on my dream list! appreciate the details here
That’s so great to hear, Yuki! Finland’s a fantastic place to build something meaningful. Wishing you the best on your journey!
Super organized post, helped me see the whole picture
Thanks a lot, Elena! Really happy to hear it helped you get the full picture. Let us know if you need anything else!
I liked it, but some parts are too formal for beginners
Appreciate the honest feedback, Ahmed. We’ll definitely work on making it a bit more beginner-friendly in the next update!
The numbers on cost feel a bit off for rural towns, maybe add comparison
Great point, Rania. Costs can definitely vary outside major cities. We actually covered more on that in our post Living and Working in Finland as an Entrepreneur if you’d like to dive deeper!
Too long 😅 maybe add a summary box at top?
Totally hear you, Marco 😅 A summary box at the top is a great idea. We’ll work on adding that to make things easier to scan!
Is this permit same as D visa or different?
Good question, Lucia. The Startup Permit and the D visa are different. The Startup Permit lets you stay and build your company, while the D visa just helps you travel to Finland faster after your permit is approved. Let us know if you want help figuring out both!
Some of the links don’t work btw, pls fix!
do they accept remote businesses or must be in Finland?
Hey Jonas, the business needs to be physically based in Finland. Remote-only setups usually don’t qualify since the idea is to contribute to the local startup ecosystem. Let us know if you want tips on how to structure your business to fit the criteria!
how fast is the fast-track really? anyone tried it?
Hi Nadia,
The fast-track processing time for the Finland Startup Permit is typically around 14 days if you submit an electronic application and meet all the requirements.
This includes proving your identity within five working days at a VFS Global application center or a Finnish mission and ensuring all necessary documents are correctly submitted.
Keep in mind that processing times can vary depending on the volume of applications and the specific circumstances of each case. It’s always a good idea to check the official Finnish Immigration Service website for the most current information.
If you need assistance with the application process or have more questions, feel free to book a free consultation with our team. We’re here to help!
Is the language test hard? where to learn Finnish?
Hey Hassan, the language test for citizenship is at B1 level, so it does take some time and practice. But lots of people manage it with consistent effort. You can start with apps like Duolingo or join courses from Finnish language centers like Finnishcourses.fi.
Really good info!! the part on cost of living is gold
Thanks so much, Yara! Glad the cost of living section stood out for you. It’s one of the most asked-about topics so we made sure to break it down clearly.
We actually covered more on that in our post Living and Working in Finland as an Entrepreneur if you’d like to dive deeper!
just what I needed, thx for putting this together
Really glad to hear that, Maxim. Thanks for checking it out and hope it helps with your next steps!
why even bother with this route, go to Estonia it’s faster
Totally get your point, Hyejin. Estonia’s process is definitely faster in some cases. We actually wrote a separate post all about it if you want to compare. It’s called What Is the Estonia Startup Visa? How to Apply – feel free to check it out!
Startup visas are a joke, they just want your taxes
Hey Peter, we get that startup visas aren’t for everyone and the process can feel frustrating. The goal is to support innovation and bring new businesses into the country, but it’s definitely not a perfect system. Appreciate you sharing your thoughts.
My startup just got accepted by Business Finland 🎉
That’s amazing news, Diana
huge congrats! 🎉 Wishing you all the success as you build your startup in Finland! 🚀
Just a heads up: fast-track isn’t available in all countries
Thanks for the heads-up, Abdulrahman!
You’re correct. The fast-track service requires applicants to prove their identity at a VFS Global application center or a Finnish mission within five working days of submitting the application. If there’s no VFS center in your country, you’ll need to visit the nearest Finnish mission, which might affect the availability of the fast-track option. It’s always best to check the specific requirements for your location on the Enter Finland website.
For me the language was the biggest barrier, rest is manageable
Totally hear you, Tuuli
The language can be tough at first, but glad to hear everything else felt manageable! 💬💪
Great writing. you made a complex thing simple
Thanks a lot, Haruto! 🙏 That’s exactly what we aim for, making things easier for future founders like you 🚀