finland business visa

Finland Business Visa for Indian Passport Holders

Finland Business Visa for Indians: Summary

  • Visa Type: Short-stay Schengen Visa (Type C) for business purposes

  • Stay Duration: Up to 90 days in any 180-day period

  • Key Requirements:

    • Valid passport
    • Business invitation from a Finnish company
    • Proof of financial resources (around €30/day)
    • Health insurance (€30,000 coverage)

  • Application Process:

    • Gather documents
    • Fill application form
    • Submit in person (or through authorized service providers, if applicable)
    • Pay €60 application fee (subject to change)

  • Processing Time: Typically 15 calendar days

  • Validity: For business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, and conducting business with Finnish companies within the Schengen Area.

 

Table of Contents

  1. Overview of Finland Business Visa
  2. Eligibility Criteria for Indians
  3. Required Documents for Application
  4. Step-by-Step Application Process
  5. Fees and Payment Methods
  6. Processing Time and Status Update
  7. Biometric Data Requirement
  8. Interview Process (If Required)
  9. Collecting Your Passport and Visa
  10. Traveling to Finland on a Business Visa
  11. Extending Your Stay (If Necessary)
  12. Common Reasons for Rejection and Tips for Success
  13. Contact Information for Finnish Missions in India
  14. External Service Providers (If Applicable)
  15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Introduction of Finland Business Visa

finland business visa

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.

2. Eligibility Criteria for Indians

  • Valid Travel Document (Passport): Issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay

  • Legitimate Business Purpose: Clearly defined reason for the visit

  • Sufficient Financial Means: To support yourself during the stay

  • Health Insurance: Covering at least €30,000 for the entire Schengen area

3. Required Documents for Application

Mandatory Documents

  • Travel Document (Passport)

    • Valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay
    • Issued within the last 10 years
    • At least two blank pages

  • Filled and Signed Application Form

  • Recent Photos

    • 2 passport-sized, color photos
    • Light background, clearly visible face

  • Proof of Business Invitation

    • From the Finnish company, on their letterhead with stamp and signature
    • Including purpose, duration, and trip details

  • Proof of Business or Employment

    • For Employed Individuals:
      • NOC from employer
      • Employment contract or ID card

    • For Business Owners:
      • Business registration documents
      • Tax returns or financial documents

  • Proof of Financial Resources

    • Bank statement showing sufficient funds (around €30 per day)
    • Proof of income or salary slips

  • Health Insurance

    • Covering the entire Schengen area
    • Minimum coverage of €30,000
    • Valid for the entire stay


  • Flight Itinerary

    • Confirmed flight reservation or travel plans document

Additional Documents (May Be Requested)

 

  • Detailed trip itinerary

  • Previous business dealings with the Finnish company (if any)

  • Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation

  • Any additional supporting documents as requested

4. Step-by-Step Application Process

4.1 Check Latest Requirements

Example of What to Look for on Official Websites:

Information

Where to Find

Example

Latest Visa Forms

Finnish Immigration Service

"Application for Schengen Visa (Form 1199)"

Required Documents

Finnish Embassy/Consulate-General in India

"Valid passport, recent photos, proof of business invitation..."

Processing Times

Finnish Immigration Service

"Typically 15 calendar days, but may vary"

 

4.2 Gather All Documents

 

  • Why: Incomplete applications can lead to delays or rejection.

    • How:

      • Review the Requirements: Based on your research in step 4.1.

  • Collect Each Document:

    • Mandatory Documents (e.g., passport, application form, photos, business invitation)

    • Additional Documents (if requested or to support your application, e.g., detailed itinerary, previous business dealings)

  • Ensure Document Quality:

    • Legibility: Easy to read

    • Completeness: All required pages/forms included

    • Validity: Documents not expired (e.g., passport, health insurance)

    • Make Copies: Keep originals safe, but have copies ready for submission

 

Document Checklist Example:

Document

Status

Notes

Valid Passport

 

Expires in 5 years

Application Form

 

Signed and dated

Recent Photos

 

2 copies, as per specifications

Business Invitation

 

Includes all required details

 

4.3 Fill the Application Form

 

  • Why: Accurate and complete forms are crucial for a successful application.

    • How:

      • Download the Form: From the Finnish Immigration Service website.

  • Fill the Form:

    • Electronically: If possible, to minimize errors

    • Print Clearly: If filling by hand, ensure legibility

    • Sign the Form: With your signature, as it appears in your passport

    • Date the Form: The current date

 

Tips for Filling the Application Form:

 

  • Use the Latest Form Version

  • Answer All Questions: Unless marked as optional

  • Be Truthful: Inaccurate information can lead to application rejection

 

4.4 Submit Your Application

In Person at the Finnish Embassy or Consulate-General in India

  • Why: Direct submission ensures clarity on any immediate issues.

    • How:

      • Book an Appointment: If required, well in advance to avoid delays

      • Visit the Embassy/Consulate:

        • Location: Verify the address (New Delhi or Mumbai)

        • Time: Be punctual for your appointment

  • Submit Your Application:

    • Hand Over Documents: Ensure all are included

    • Pay the Application Fee: Currently €60, plus any service fees

    • Receive a Receipt: Confirming your application submission

 

Or Through an Authorized External Service Provider (If Applicable)

 

  • Why: Convenience and potentially additional services.

    • How:

      • Identify the Provider: Check if Finland uses external providers in India (e.g., VFS Global)

  • Submit Through the Provider:

    • Follow Their Guidelines: For document submission and fee payment

    • Additional Services: May include courier services for passport return

 

Comparison: In-Person vs. External Service Provider

Aspect

In-Person

External Service Provider

Convenience

Less flexible

More flexible, with additional services

Control

Direct interaction

Less direct, but potentially more streamlined

Fees

Standard application fee

Application fee + service fees


4.5 Pay the Application Fee

 

  • Amount: Currently €60 for a short-stay Schengen visa (subject to change)

    • Methods:

      • Cash (at some application centres)

      • Credit/Debit Card

      • Bank Transfer (in some cases, check with the application centre)

  • Additional Fees:

    • Service Fees (if using an external service provider)

    • Courier Fees (for passport return, if opted for)

 

Example of Fee Payment:

Fee Type

Amount (€)

Payment Method

Application Fee

60

Credit Card

Service Fee (External Provider)

20

Debit Card

Total

80

 


4.6 Wait for the Decision

 

  • Typical Processing Time: 15 calendar days, but may vary

  • What to Expect:

    • Approval: Your visa will be processed, and your passport will be ready for collection.

  • Additional Documentation Required: You will be notified to provide more documents.

  • Rejection: You will receive a decision explaining the reasons for the rejection.

 

Tracking Your Application Status:

 

  • Through the Finnish Immigration Service Website (if applied directly)

  • Through the External Service Provider’s Website or Contact (if applicable)

 

4.7 Collect Your Passport

 

  • Once the Decision is Made:

    • Visit the Submission Point:

      • Embassy/Consulate (if applied in person)

      • External Service Provider’s Office (if used)

  • Bring Required Documents:

    • Receipt or Token given during submission

    • Your ID

  • Collect Your Passport:

    • With the Visa (if approved)

    • With a Rejection Letter (if not approved)

5. Photo Specifications of Finland Business Visa

The photo specifications of Finland business visa -

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

6. Fees and Payment Methods

  • Application Fee: Currently €60 (check for updates)

  • Payment Methods:

    • Cash (at some application centres)
    • Credit/Debit Card
    • Bank Transfer (in some cases, check with the application centre)

7. Processing Time and Status Update

  • Typical Processing Time: 15 calendar days

  • Status Update:

    • Through the Finnish Immigration Service website (if applied directly)
    • Through the external service provider’s website or contact (if applicable)

8. Biometric Data Requirement

  • Requirement: If not provided in the last 59 months for a Schengen visa

  • Process: Fingerprint scanning at the application centre

9. Interview Process (If Required)

  • Notification: You will be informed if an interview is necessary

  • Preparation:

    • Review your application and supporting documents
    • Be prepared to discuss your business plans and trip in detail

10. Collecting Your Passport and Visa

  • Collection Point: The same location where you submitted your application

  • Required Documents: Receipt or token given during submission, and possibly your ID

11. Traveling to Finland on a Business Visa

  • Travel Within the Schengen Area: Allowed, but ensure you understand the 90/180 rule

  • Registration in Finland: If staying beyond certain periods, check with local authorities for registration requirements

12. Extending Your Stay (If Necessary)

  • Eligibility: Limited to exceptional cases (e.g., force majeure, humanitarian reasons)

  • Application Process:

    • Apply at the Finnish Immigration Service

    • Provide justification and supporting documents

      • Pay the extension fee (if applicable)

13. Common Reasons for Rejection and Tips for Success

  • Common Reasons:

    • Insufficient or unclear documentation
    • Inadequate financial resources
    • Unclear business purpose

  • Tips for Success:

    • Ensure all documents are complete and clear
    • Provide detailed business plans and financials
    • Apply well in advance of your trip

14. Contact Information for Finnish Missions in India

  • Finnish Embassy in New Delhi

    • Address: E-3, Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021
    • Phone: +91 11 4149 7500
    • Email: sanomat.nde@formin.fi

 

  • Consulate General of Finland in Mumbai

    • Address: Nirmal Building, 11A, 11th Floor, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400021
    • Phone: +91 22 2288 0500
    • Email: sanomat.bom@formin.fi

 

Need more clarity on the Finland business visa? Check out helpful resources below


Finland Visa Requirement
Finland Tourist Visa Requirement
Finland Work Visa Requirement
Finland VIsit Visa Requirement
Finland Embassies and Consulates
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a Finland business visa online?

Currently, applications must be submitted in person or through authorized external service providers.

How long does it take to process a Finland business visa?

Typically 15 calendar days, but may vary.

Can I travel to other Schengen countries on a Finland business visa?

Yes, but ensure you understand the 90/180 rule for stays in the Schengen Area.

Can I convert my Finland Business Visa into a tourist permit?

No, you are not permitted to convert a short term visa. One of the major conditions under which these are issued is that you return back to your home country. Applying or converting to another type is in direct contradiction to this. However, while you are in a business category, you are allowed to take part in tourism.

 

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