Income requirement for persons who apply for a residence permit on the basis of work

If you apply for a residence permit in order to work in Finland, you need to be able to earn your living in Finland through gainful employment throughout the time your residence permit is valid.

The minimum salary from gainful employment is reviewed annually. Specialists and EU Blue Card holders are required to earn a higher salary. If your work is other than gainful employment (au pair, volunteering, Working holiday), your income requirement is defined separately.

Secure means of support through gainful employment

If you apply for a residence permit for full-time gainful employment, your salary must at least correspond to the salary specified in the collective agreement that applies to your employment relationship.

If there is no collective agreement in your sector, your gross salary must be at least EUR 1,189 per month (in 2018). This sum meets the condition regarding previous employment (in Finnish: ‘työssäoloehto’) under the Unemployment Security Act.

Specialist and EU Blue Card

If you apply for a residence permit as a specialist, you are required to earn a salary that is higher than the average. Your gross salary must be at least approximately EUR 3,000 per month.

If you apply for an EU Blue Card, your gross salary must be at least EUR 4,663 per month in 2018. This is the national salary threshold applicable in Finland in 2018, and it is reviewed annually. Potential employee benefits and daily allowances do not count as salary.

Athlete, coach or trainer

If your accommodation benefit or some other benefit is considered to form a part of your salary, you must attach a document on the taxable value of the benefit to your residence permit application. It is not possible to replace a salary in money with other fringe benefits (such as game or training outfits) or with health care or reimbursement of expenses.

Internship

You must be paid for your internship. You cannot get a residence permit for an unpaid internship.

Au pair

If you apply for a residence permit for au pair status, your host family must provide you with room and board, insurance and pocket money.

In addition to your room and board, your host family must give you at least EUR 280 (net) per month in pocket money. The host family must also present documentation of your insurance.

Working holiday

If you apply for a residence permit for a Working holiday, you must have sufficient funds to be able to live in Finland. You have to have about EUR 2,000 in your bank account for the first three months.

Volunteering

If you apply for a residence permit for a Working holiday, you must have sufficient funds to be able to live in Finland.