Former Finnish citizens living abroad and their descendants have the opportunity to acquire Finnish citizenship
The current Nationality Act entered into force on 1 June 2003. It gives former Finnish citizens the opportunity to re-acquire Finnish citizenship by declaration, if they have lost it when acquiring the citizenship of another country, for example. Descendants of former and current Finnish citizens may also acquire Finnish citizenship by declaration, even if they have never had citizenship.
The period for making the declaration was limited in the Act to five years, meaning that the declaration must be made at the latest on 31 May 2008. A little over one year remains for making the declaration.
“It is now high time to consider making a citizenship declaration. The deadline for making the declaration is categorical, after which it will no longer be possible for former Finnish citizens living abroad or their descendants to acquire Finnish citizenship,” reminds Director Tiina Suominen of the Finnish Immigration Service’s Nationality Unit.
Suominen advises people to think about the advantages and disadvantages of Finnish citizenship: “Even though it might not be useful for you yourself, it might be wise to consider the matter from the point of view of your underaged children. One of the obvious advantages of citizenship is that you obtain a Finnish passport, which enables free movement within the EU.”
Citizenship also carries obligations. “Males considering citizenship should contact Finnish authorities to find out whether they will have to do compulsory military service in Finland, or whether they can be exempted from it,” stresses Suominen.
Since the nationality legislation of countries is varied, those considering making the declaration should also find out whether acquiring Finnish citizenship will affect their current citizenship. This may also take time, so it is advisable to initiate the proceedings well before 31 May 2008.
Citizenship declarations are made to the Finnish Immigration Service, but those living abroad may submit the declaration only at a Finnish mission. The declaration is subject to a charge, except for war veterans.
So far, over 7,500 former Finnish citizens and their descendants have acquired Finnish citizenship.
Relevant information on the Internet
Finnish Immigration Service: www.migri.fi
Local Register Offices: www.maistraatti.fi
Finnish missions abroad: http://formin.finland.fi
Finnish Defence Forces: www.mil.fi
Civil Service Centre: www.sivarikeskus.fi
25.4.2007
