How to Immigrate to Finland from Nigeria

If there is a travel abroad destination you must consider as a Nigerian, it should be Finland. The country is an exciting destination to immigrate to, with many opportunities for studies and jobs.

Finland is highly developed and has a stable economy, advanced tech, and high living standards. It also provides excellent educational and career opportunities.

If you are considering how to immigrate to Finland from Nigeria through the study, family, or work route, you will certainly need to apply for a residence permit.

You will need to access diverse resources, which I will make available through this article. Hence, you will learn all about immigrating to Finland from Nigeria, including the reasons to do so, types of visas, and how to settle down there.

Overview of Immigration to Finland from Nigeria

Immigrating to Finland from Nigeria is not as challenging as some people think. The Finnish government has put some regulations to make the process more straightforward.

However, before applying for a visa, you must decide your reason for immigrating to Finland. This will determine the type of visa you need to apply for. After that, you must fill out certain forms and put things together for your trip.

Moreover, you must have enough money to last in your new country except someone is sponsoring the visa. If you are immigrating for studies, you will need proof of admission. But if it is for employment, you must show evidence of a job offer from a Finnish employer.

Is Finland a good Country to relocate to from Nigeria?

Before I get into the process, let me briefly discuss why someone from Nigeria might consider Finland an immigration destination.

• Educational purposes: Finland’s education system is one of the best globally. It has consistently ranked among the top in world ranking systems.
• Quality of life: Having a high living standard, superb healthcare, excellent education, security, and several job opportunities qualifies Finland as one of the best countries to immigrate to.
• Scenic setting: The natural surroundings of the country are vividly striking. There is a reason Finland is known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Lakes.’
• Pleasant people: Finnish people are friendly and welcoming.

Understanding the Immigration Process

Immigration requires a process that you must follow. However, it is not a walk in the park; you must understand every detail. Here is what I mean:

• Research: Before applying for a visa, you must research what life lies ahead for you. Understand their basic language, culture, and living costs.
• Documents: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your travel. Other documents you must provide include academic qualifications, medical records, and birth/marriage certificate.
• Finance: You must prove you have sufficient funds to immigrate to Finland from Nigeria.

What are the Types of Visas to Immigrate to Finland?

• Work visa: This program is for those with a job offer from a Finnish employer. As a Nigerian, you can work in Finland with this visa. Your employer will provide proof that the working condition is adequate.
• Study visa: Anyone pursuing education in Finland can obtain a study/student visa. To be eligible, you must be accepted into a Finnish higher institution and prove that you can financially cover your expenses.
• Family reunification visa: This visa allows an individual from Nigeria to join their family member in Finland. You must include a copy of your family member’s passport, income, financial situation, and proof of your relationship.
• Permanent Residency: This program allows Nigerians to live and work in Finland indefinitely. To qualify, you must have a valid work permit, a job offer from a Finnish employer, and proof of financial capability to support yourself and any dependents you may have.

How do I Easily Settle in Finland?

To become acclimatized in your new environment may be easy or take time, depending on your attitude towards it. To settle down, you need to do the following:

• Accommodation: Before renting a house, explore the options available to help you decide the best. On average, rent will cost between 450 euros and 700 euros monthly. A studio apartment costs around 900 euros. You will also pay utilities and other bills.
• Language: Finnish is the official language of Finland. However, English is widely spoken. But to easily integrate into your environment, find a job, and do other things, you should strive to learn the language basics.
• Integration: Try to identify other Nigerians living in Finland. There is a community of Nigerians or ethnic groups in your location. Also, engage in community activities within your location to enable you to assimilate into the environment.

How do I Apply For a Finnish Schengen Visa in Nigeria?

Applying for a Finnish Schengen visa is done online. The simple steps to follow are below:

#Step one – Identify Visa Type

Identifying your visa type is as essential as every other effort you put into the process. Select ‘visa type’ on the application page and click the accurate tab for the visa type you need.

#Step two – Commence Your Application

Get your visa application form and fill out the spaces. On the following page, create an account. You can download the application form, complete it, print it, and resubmit it.

#Step three – Book an Appointment

Visit the official website of the Finnish embassy, consulate, or visa application center in Nigeria to schedule an appointment. The process is free.

#Step four – Visit a Visa Application Center

You must show in person for your visa appointment with your supporting document and visa application fee. Your passport must be valid and with at least two blank pages and a printout of your visa application. At the office, you will provide your photo and fingerprints as your biometrics.

It is also possible to undergo your visa interview in the process. During the interview, you will be asked a few questions relating to your travel. Some of them include:

• What is your purpose for visiting Finland?
• Will you travel by yourself?
• Do you have any relatives or friends in Finland?
• How much money do you make?

#Step five – Pay Your Fees

You can pay your visa fee in cash or with a credit or debit card at the visa application center. Bank charges and service fees are also necessary. Note that there is no refund of payment. Hence, you must be careful with each process. There is no visa fee for children of 0 to five. Children from 6 to 11 are to pay 40 euros, and 12 and above is 80 euros.

#Step six – Track Your Application

Enter your unique reference number and date of birth to track your application. Knowing your application status is essential.

#Step seven – Collect Your Passport

Once a decision has been made, you will get your passport. But you must go with a copy of your ID and receipt issued for the courier service. Your application may be approved or rejected. If approved, your visa will be attached to a page in your passport. If it is rejected, the reasons will be stated. However, you can file an appeal.

How much do I need to relocate to Finland from Nigeria?

The cost of immigrating to Finland from Nigeria is generally about ₦3,000,000 for a single applicant or about ₦4,500,000 for a couple. This amount will also vary depending on which program you are applying through. For instance, a resident permit for a single person costs ₦432,177 (EUR 520). While a first residence permit for work or a self-employed person ₦614,850 (EUR 740).

How Much Will It Cost To Travel To Finland From Nigeria?

Flight tickets from Nigeria to Finland cost around $400 – $1,400 (i.e. ₦314,800–₦1,101,800). On average, it takes 13 hours and 56 minutes.

Does Finland Have an Embassy In Nigeria?

Yes, the embassy of Finland is located in Abuja

Address: Plot 1547, No 9 Iro Dan Musa Street, Asokoro in Wuse Zone 3

Telephone: +2348037851150, +2347064189000

Email: sanomat.aba@formin.fi.

Can I Work and Study in Finland?

As a Nigerian studying in Finland, you can work 25 hours a week during academic sessions. But you can work for as much as 40 hours during the holiday. It would be best to have a work permit to be allowed to work.

How to get a job in Finland from Nigeria?

For Nigerians who want to work in Finland, the path begins with research and planning. Finland has a robust economy, particularly in technology, clean energy, and healthcare.

Begin by visiting websites such as Tyomarkkinatori or Jobs in Helsinki, which offer thorough employment listings. Using networks on platforms such as LinkedIn, where many Finnish firms actively seek overseas talent, might help open doors.

Additionally, acquiring basic Finnish or Swedish can give you an advantage, as some roles may need knowledge of the local language. It is also critical to become acquainted with Finnish work culture and customs.

Finally, make sure you have all of the essential work permits and visas. Remember that with determination and the necessary resources, Nigerians seeking new opportunities can enter the Finnish labor market.