Finland Business Visa for Indians - Everything You Need To Know - (Indian Passport Holders)

Issued for people travelling to the country for the purpose of taking part in business-related activities, this business permit is a type of the C type and is valid for a duration of 90 days in a 180-day period. Finland, being a part of the Schengen, issues the Schengen business visa. It is issued as single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry as per the requirements.

The application for this category is done using an online application form. However, to submit the application, you will have to do it offline. As per the embassy, it has outsourced the applications to Visa Application Centres (VACs). Before starting the process, you must ensure that you are eligible for this type of Finnish permit. If you are, you may proceed as mentioned below - 

1. Get all the documents that are required by the embassy for a tourist category. 
2. Visit the website of the VAC and log on to the application portal.
3. Fill in the application form with all the necessary details. Take a print out of the completed application you receive via email. 
4. Proceed to book your visa appointment at one of the VACs, or at the embassy (if available). You can do this by calling the respective centre, or by using the online platform of the VAC.
5. Attend the appointment with your documents, application form, and fees. You will also have to submit your biometrics here.

Please note that if you have already submitted your biometrics in the past 5 years, you do not have to submit them again. In these cases, you do not have to be present in person for the submission. 

Ensure that you fill the correct details and submit only genuine documents. Submitting the wrong information, or submitting fake documents can lead to visa rejection. A refused visa can hamper your future travel.

To be eligible to apply for the business category, you must meet the following conditions -

1. You must be in your country of residence if you are applying there. If you are residing in a residence permit in a foreign nation, you may be able to apply it from there. 
2. You must possess a valid passport.
3. Your sole purpose of the visit must be to take part in business in Finland, and other business activities such as meetings, conferences, and so on. 
4. You must possess enough funds to cover your stay in the country.
5. You must only apply for the visa if -

1. • Finland is your only destination, or
   • Finland is one of your multiple Schengen destinations in which case you will be spending the majority of the time here, or Finland is your port of entry.

As per the requirements, the documents required for Finland business visa are as follows - 

• Valid Indian Passport- 

1. 1. It must contain at least 2 blank pages.
   2. It must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of intended travel.
   3. Old passports, if any, are to be attached.

• Covering letter - 

• 1. Must include the applicant's basic details such as name, designation, address, etc.
  2. It should clearly state the purpose and duration of the visit.
  3. It should mention the source of funds.
  4. It must be signed by the applicant and addressed to the Finland embassy.

• Travel itinerary 
• Proof of accommodation
• Confirmed flight tickets
• Invitation letter from the Finland company/organization stating the details of the travel.
• Travel insurance covering expenses up to 30000 Euros
• Proof of occupation 
• Financial documents -Personal bank statements, copy of updated passbook, salary slips (if employed), income tax returns for the last 3 years or Form 16 A (if self-employed)

The photo specifications of Finland business visa -

• Dimensions:  35mm X 45mm
• Colour: Coloured
• Head must occupy a central position 
• It must have been captured in the last 3 months
• Background: Solid, plain white or grey with a matte finish
• 80% face coverage
• Neutral facial expression
• Glasses: Thin-framed and prescription glasses are permitted
• Headgears are allowed only for religious reasons
• Facial hair is permitted

The time taken to process the business permit depends on several factors such as the number of entries, volume of applications at the embassy, and so on. Normally, it takes around 15 working days. Due to the unpredictability, it is suggested that you apply for the permit well in advance.

The total fees for the process depend on factors such as the number of entries, biometric charges, as well as any other service charges levied. It can also vary depending on the foreign exchange rates. As a result, you are expected to confirm the exact fees before starting the application.

Once you have submitted the application and paid the fees, the application will be processed. In the meanwhile, if the embassy requires additional documentation, you will be contacted. Once approved, you can collect the approved visa from the VAC, or have it delivered to your address for a fee.

While you are waiting for a response, you may track the status of your application by visiting the website of the VAC and entering the application number and name at the tracking portal. You may also contact the travel agency you have applied through.

Once you are on this permit, you must keep in mind the following criteria - 

• Make a note of the visa expiry date, as well as the number of entries. Be aware that you must not stay in the country beyond this period.
• You must always carry a copy of your passport and other travel documents while you are travelling within the country. 
• While you are on a business permit, you must not take part in any work activities or seek employment.
• You are not allowed to extend the permit unless in extreme circumstances.
• You are allowed to visit any of the Schengen nations while you are on this visa, as long as you meet their entry requirements.