Specialist Permit in Finland (Highly Skilled Worker)

1 March 2025

What is a specialist permit?

  • Specialist permit is intended for person who comes to work in Finland as a specialist or an expert in a certain field.

  • Specialist permit is one of the most popular residence permits applied by specialists or other experts who have a higher education degree and/or relevant expertise.

  • It is also the most common type of work-related permit for a person who works in a managerial position in Finland, such as Managing Director of a small and medium-sized enterprise.

 

What are the main requirements for a specialist permit?

  • You must have a confirmed employment in Finland.

  • Your work in Finland must require special expertise.

  • Your minimum monthly gross salary (i.e., salary before tax) must be EUR 3827 in 2025.

  • You must hold a higher education degree or special expertise obtained through work experience or other education.

 

How long does the application process take?

  • Both electronic and paper application takes only 2 weeks in most cases and 1month in some rare cases. The electronic application is regarded as more convenient and it also costs less than paper application.

 

How much does a specialist permit cost?

  • Electronic application: first time application EUR 380, and an extended permit EUR 170.

  • Paper application: first time application EUR 480, and an extended permit EUR 430.

 

Can I start working before I have received my specialist permit?

If your work in Finland lasts for more than 90 days and this is the first residence permit that you have applied for, you can only start working as a specialist once you have received your specialist permit. A person may work in Finland without a residence permit only in certain limited situations.

 

What is the maximum length of a specialist permit?

The first specialist permit may be granted for a maximum of 2 years. However, if your employment last for less than 2 years, your permit will be valid for the duration of your employment.

 

FREE 10 MINUTES CONSULTATION

WDL regularly assists international companies and foreign individuals with residence permit matters and our experts have tried and tested, hands-on experience on the residence permit and immigration matters. If you have more questions on the requirements or procedures of residence permits in Finland, please feel free to contact us. We offer free general consultation for the first 10 minutes.