Guide to Family Sponsorship Visas for In-Laws in Finland
Introduction
Finland offers various visa options for family members of Finnish citizens or residents. This article focuses on family sponsorship visas for in-laws, providing comprehensive information to guide you through the application process.
Eligibility
To sponsor an in-law for a family sponsorship visa in Finland, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Finnish citizen or have permanent residence in Finland
- Be financially capable of supporting your in-law
- Have suitable housing for both of you
Eligible In-Laws
The following in-laws are eligible for family sponsorship visas:
- Spouse’s parents or siblings
- Child’s spouse or partner
- Sibling’s spouse or partner
Application Process
1. Gather Required Documents:
- Passport or travel document of the applicant
- Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate)
- Proof of Finnish citizenship or permanent residence
- Proof of financial capability (e.g., income statement, bank account statement)
- Proof of suitable housing (e.g., rental agreement, mortgage documents)
2. Submit Application:
Submit the application package to the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri). You can apply online or at a Finnish embassy or consulate abroad.
3. Processing Time:
The processing time for family sponsorship visas can vary depending on the individual case. It typically takes several months to receive a decision.
Visa Requirements
1. Residence Permit:
Upon approval, your in-law will receive a residence permit valid for one year. They can extend it annually as long as the sponsorship criteria are still met.
2. Language Requirements:
There are no language requirements for family sponsorship visas for in-laws.
3. Health Insurance:
Your in-law must have health insurance that covers them in Finland. They can purchase private health insurance or enroll in the Finnish national health insurance system.
4. Integration Measures:
Your in-law is encouraged to participate in integration measures, such as language courses or civic orientation programs.
Grounds for Refusal
Migri may refuse a family sponsorship visa application if:
- The relationship is not genuine
- The applicant poses a security risk
- The sponsor does not meet the financial or housing requirements
- The applicant has been convicted of a serious crime
Appeals
If your application is refused, you have the right to appeal the decision to the Administrative Court of Helsinki.
Additional Information
- You can sponsor multiple in-laws at the same time.
- Your in-law may be eligible for a work permit or study permit while on a family sponsorship visa.
- If your in-law is a citizen of a visa-free country, they may not need a visa to enter Finland, but they will still need to apply for a residence permit.
Conclusion
Sponsoring an in-law for a family sponsorship visa in Finland is a complex process. By carefully following the guidelines outlined in this article and submitting a complete and accurate application package, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome.