Finland is planning to implement stricter language proficiency, financial capability, and immigration rules for international students. The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment has published a draft of these changes as part of the new immigration reform proposal. Feedback on the proposal will be accepted until June 29. The government plans to present the bill to Parliament during the current session. If approved, the changes will take effect from 2027.
Currently, family members of international students can apply for residence permits simultaneously with the student. However, the new proposal states that family members can only apply for residence permits after the student has resided in Finland for at least one year.
There are also plans to set a minimum income requirement for students through laws and government decrees. Currently, immigration authorities provide guidelines in this regard.
The government commented that many international students are facing problems in Finland without adequate financial preparation. Incidents of students becoming indebted to foreign education agents and intermediaries due to misleading information are also increasing.
Language Proficiency Requirement Before Arrival
The new proposal mandates that students must prove their language proficiency before entering Finland. Authorities have stated that some students arrive in Finland without adequate English or educational language skills, leading to difficulties in completing their studies.
According to the proposal, students who fail to meet the required language proficiency may have their study residence permit applications rejected.
It should be noted that since 2023, the Finnish government has been gradually tightening immigration and permanent residence policies. This includes making the rules for obtaining permanent residence and citizenship more stringent.
