Finland is considering stricter immigration rules for international students under a proposed reform package that would introduce tighter language requirements, tougher financial checks, and delays for family reunification.
According to reports, the proposals were released on May 18 by Finland’s Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment and will remain open for public consultation until June 29. If approved, the reforms will be presented to Parliament in spring 2026, with implementation expected in phases from 2027.
One of the major changes would affect family reunification. Under the proposal, international students would no longer be allowed to bring dependants immediately upon arrival. Instead, they would need to reside in Finland for at least one year before family members can apply to join them.
Finnish authorities said the measure is aimed at ensuring students are financially stable and preventing hardship linked to inadequate funding or misleading recruitment practices.
Employment Minister Matias Marttinen said the reforms are intended to balance Finland’s labour needs with responsible immigration policies.
“Finland’s labour market will also need the expertise of international students in the future. At the same time, it must be ensured that student immigration is sustainable,” Marttinen said.
The proposal would also introduce legally binding minimum income requirements for student residence permits, replacing the current guideline-based system used by immigration authorities. Officials believe the change would provide clearer financial expectations for applicants.
Another key aspect of the reform is the introduction of mandatory language proficiency checks before students arrive in Finland. Applicants who fail to meet the required standards could be denied residence permits.
Authorities said some international students currently struggle academically because they arrive without sufficient language skills, making integration and study completion more difficult.
The proposed reforms are part of Finland’s broader immigration policy changes introduced since 2023, with a focus on improving integration and ensuring international students are better prepared for life and study in the country.
