Backlog in processing applications based on family ties
The processing of applications files on the basis of family ties is currently backlogged. Currently, around 11,800 applications are awaiting a decision. We apologise for any inconvenience that the delays may cause.
What has caused the backlog?
The number of applications has increased dramatically over the last 2 years. In 2021, there were around 26,000 applications based on family ties, whereas in 2022 the figure was around 32,000. This year, the number of pending applications is expected to rise to 40,000. The increase in applications is around 50% compared to 2021.
We have received enquiries about whether asylum applications at Finland's eastern border are contributing to the backlog of applications based on family ties. Asylum applications do not affect the backlog of applications based on family ties. Applications based on family ties and asylum are processed by different services.
We are making every effort to clear the backlog. We have recruited more staff and are improving the way we process applications.
Most applications are processed in less than three months
However, the backlog does not affect the majority of applications based on family ties. In 2023, more than 60% of applications based on family ties have been decided in less than three months and 76% will be decided in less than six months from the date of application.
The majority of applicants have received a positive decision. In 2022, a total of 17,476 decisions were taken on first residence permits based on family ties and 11,589 decisions on subsequent permits, totalling around 29,000 decisions. In 2023, around 35,000 decisions have already been made, and for the year as a whole, the estimate is 37,500 decisions. Of these, the proportion of positive decisions is around 93% for the first permits and around 96% for subsequent permits.
If you have not yet received a decision on your application, there is no need to worry. We will contact you if we need any further clarification regarding your application.
We always take into account the best interests of the child and the protection of family life when processing applications. The average processing time for applications for minor children is shorter.
Remember this when applying for a residence permit on the basis of family ties:
- Fill in the application carefully.
- The best way to ensure the fastest possible processing of your application is to ensure that your application is filled in correctly and accompanied by all the required documents.
- The backlog is particularly heavy for applications for which we have to ask for further clarification. Check that you have provided all the requested attachments. Make sure you have also provided legalised documents on your family ties and a declaration of your income as required by the guidelines.
- The processing of an application is often delayed in situations where a family member already living in Finland does not have a valid residence permit and the application cannot be processed until the family member living in Finland has been granted a residence permit.
- Have your documents legalised before you submit your application.
- Documents proving family ties, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate for your child, must be legalised. Bring the original documents with you when you visit a Finnish mission (embassy or consulate) or a service point of the Finnish Immigration Service to identify yourself.
- If there are any changes in your family relationships, please inform the Finnish Immigration Service.
- Changes in family relationships include divorce, marriage, the birth of a child and changes in custody of a child. Instructions for submitting the information can be found on the page Change in family relationship.
- Remember to renew your passport if it is about to expire.
- Your passport must be valid for a residence permit to be issued. If your passport is about to expire, renew it in time.
- The expiry of your passport is not a reason to rush your application for a residence permit.
