The Finnish government has officially announced a stringent new policy regarding international student residence permits. Starting this month, January 2026, Finland will begin the process of cancelling or refusing the renewal of residence permits for international students who are found to be “unduly” relying on the country’s social welfare system.
The move is part of a broader shift by the current coalition government to tighten immigration rules and ensure that international students are self-sufficient during their studies.
Under the new guidelines issued by the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri), the following rules now apply to non-EU/EEA students.
International students are required to prove they have sufficient funds (currently set at a minimum of €800 per month or €9,600 per year) to cover their living expenses without recourse to public funds.
If a student applies for and receives social assistance (Kela benefits) intended for those in financial distress, it will be flagged as a violation of the permit conditions.
Migri will now have real-time data sharing with Kela (the Social Insurance Institution of Finland) to monitor benefit claims made by permit holders.
The Finnish Ministry of the Interior stated that the policy is intended to protect the integrity of the student visa program.
The government argues that student permits are granted on the premise of being self-funded, and relying on taxpayer-funded welfare contradicts that agreement.
With a cooling economy, the government is looking to reduce the “pull factors” that lead to increased public spending on non-citizens.
The administration wants to prioritize students who can support themselves and eventually transition into high-skilled labor roles within the Finnish economy.
The National Union of University Students in Finland (SYL) has condemned the move, calling it “short-sighted.”
“Finland is facing a massive labor shortage and an aging population. We should be making students feel welcome, not threatening them with deportation if they fall on hard times. This policy will only discourage the brightest minds from choosing Finland.”
University administrators have also expressed concern that this may lead to a drop in international enrollments, particularly from the Global South.
If you are currently studying in Finland or planning to move there:
Check your funding: Ensure your blocked account or bank statement consistently reflects the required minimum.
Consult Migri: If you have accidentally claimed a benefit, seek legal or administrative advice immediately before your permit renewal date.
Explore University Aid: Most Finnish universities (like Aalto or University of Helsinki) have internal scholarships and hardship funds that do not count as state social welfare.
