Finland Startup Permit: Complete Guide for Entrepreneurs (2025)

Last Updated: December 2025

Finland's Startup Permit offers international entrepreneurs a streamlined pathway to build innovative businesses in one of Europe's most advanced startup ecosystems. Launched in 2018, this program provides non-EU founders access to a nation known for producing more unicorns per capita than almost any other European country—and doing so with no investment requirement and remarkably fast processing times.

Finland Startup Permit at a Glance

Feature

Details

Program Name

Startup Permit (Residence permit for startup entrepreneur)

Launched

2018

Initial Permit Duration

2 years

Extensions

Renewable (must continue meeting criteria)

Investment Required

None from applicant

Annual Cap

None

Financial Requirement

€1,030-1,210/month (~€12,360-14,520/year for 1 year)

Application Fee

€400-450 (online) / €480-520 (paper)

Processing Time

14 days (fast-track) to 1-2 months (standard)

Team Requirement

Minimum 2 founders with 60%+ combined ownership

Path to Permanent Residence

4-6 years

Path to Citizenship

8 years total

Family Inclusion

Yes, spouse and children can apply simultaneously

Program Overview

The Finland Startup Permit is designed specifically for innovative growth-oriented startups with international potential. Unlike traditional entrepreneur visas that require profitability from day one, this permit recognizes that startups need time to develop and scale.

The program is administered jointly by two government agencies:

What makes Finland’s approach distinctive is its emphasis on innovation over capital. You don’t need to secure external funding or make a large personal investment. Instead, Business Finland assesses whether your startup demonstrates genuine potential for rapid international growth.

The permit grants you the right to:

Live and work in Finland for up to 2 years initially
Establish and operate your startup company
Access Finland's comprehensive startup support ecosystem
Bring your immediate family members
Travel freely within the Schengen Area
Work for other employers in addition to your startup (if needed)

Key Benefits

Immigration Benefits

No investment requirement

Unlike many startup visa programs that require €50,000-200,000+ in capital or external funding, Finland requires only that you have personal living expenses covered.

Fast-track processing available

The 2-week fast-track option is among the fastest startup visa processing times in Europe, allowing you to begin operations quickly.

Family-friendly

Your spouse and dependent children can apply for residence permits simultaneously and use the same fast-track service.

D-visa option

You can apply for a D-visa alongside your residence permit, allowing you to travel to Finland immediately after approval without waiting for your residence permit card.

No language requirement

Unlike permanent residence and citizenship, the initial permit has no Finnish or Swedish language requirement.

Renewable permit

As long as your startup continues to meet the criteria, you can extend your permit and continue building in Finland.

Business Benefits

World-class startup ecosystem

Finland ranks #7 in Western Europe and #15 globally for startup ecosystems (StartupBlink 2024-2025). Helsinki alone hosts over 747 startups with an annual growth rate of +23.5%.

Unicorn factory

Finland has produced 10-15 unicorns from a population of just 5.5 million people, including Supercell, Wolt, Oura, Rovio, Aiven, RELEX Solutions, and IQM. This represents one of the highest unicorn-per-capita ratios globally.

Strong venture capital scene

Finnish startups raised €1.5 billion in VC funding in 2024, with €497 million in just the first half of the year alone.

Business Finland support

After establishing your company, you may be eligible for Business Finland's Tempo funding program. The criteria align closely with the Startup Permit requirements, making the application process streamlined.

EU market access

Finland provides a gateway to 440+ million consumers across 27 EU countries.

Low corporate tax

Finland's corporate tax rate is 20%, competitive within the EU.

Highly educated workforce

Finnish universities consistently rank among the world's best, producing top talent in technology, engineering, and design.

Innovation infrastructure

Finland ranks as the 3rd most innovative country globally, with strong R&D investment and world-class infrastructure.

Collaborative business culture

Finnish business culture emphasizes flat hierarchies, open communication, and quick decision-making—ideal for startups.

Eligibility Requirements

Team Requirements

Your startup must have:

At least two founders with diverse, complementary expertise
All founders planning to relocate to Finland and work in the company
Combined team ownership of at least 60% of the company
Sufficient English proficiency (written and spoken) to operate an international business

Business Finland explicitly states that teams with only one founder are not eligible. The rationale is that diverse teams with complementary skills have better chances of success.

Business Requirements

Your startup must demonstrate:

Innovation: A business idea that is genuinely innovative and distinct from existing solutions in global markets. Your product or service must offer something new—whether in technology, business model, or approach.
International growth potential: A clear path to rapid scaling beyond Finland. Business Finland is specifically looking for companies with global ambitions, not local service businesses.
Understanding of the market: Evidence that you understand the customer need you're addressing, have identified your target market, and have a viable earnings model.
Concrete business plan: A detailed plan including your business model, competitive analysis, financial projections, and growth strategy. A pitch deck (5-10 slides) is recommended.
Early traction (helpful but not required): Any demos, prototypes, customer contacts, pilots, initial deals, or intellectual property strengthen your application.

What's NOT Eligible

The following business types cannot qualify for the Startup Permit:

Restaurants and food service businesses
Consulting firms and professional services
Import/export and distribution businesses
Retail operations
Finnish subsidiaries or branch offices of foreign companies
Any business without an innovative competitive advantage

If your business falls into these categories, you may be eligible for the regular Entrepreneur Residence Permit instead, which has different requirements.

Financial Requirements

You must demonstrate sufficient personal financial resources to support yourself during your stay. For 2025, the minimum monthly net income requirement depends on your location of residence: €1,210 per month in the Helsinki region, €1,090 per month in other major cities, and €1,030 per month in smaller municipalities. This equals an annual total of approximately €12,360 to €14,520 for one year, or €24,720 to €29,040 for the full recommended two-year permit duration. These funds must be available in your own bank account, or proven through documented regular income such as salary or rental income, funding granted to your startup company, or a combination of these sources. The funds must be readily available for your personal support and living expenses.

Application Process

The Finland Startup Permit follows a structured eligibility, residence permit, and post-arrival setup process.

01

Application Materials & Business Readiness

Prepare all required documents, including a detailed business plan (English, Finnish, or Swedish), a pitch deck (5–10 slides), passport copies, CVs highlighting founder expertise, ownership structure and roles, and current business status evidence such as prototypes, pilots, customer traction, or IP. If applicable, include proof of an existing company with a commitment to relocate all intellectual property to Finland.

02

Eligibility Statement Submission

One team member acts as the main contact and submits the application on behalf of the entire team through the Enter Finland platform. The application is free of charge and requires detailed responses about your business idea, market opportunity, competition, and founding team.

03

Evaluation & Eligibility Decision

Business Finland assesses whether your business model, team, and resources demonstrate strong potential for rapid international growth. The average processing time is around one month, though peak periods may take longer. If approved, you receive a positive Eligibility Statement.

04

Residence Permit Applications & Fees

Each founder must apply individually through Enter Finland, attaching the Eligibility Statement (valid for 4 months), proof of financial resources, and paying the application fee (€400–450). Applicants may also choose to apply for a D-visa at the same time.

05

Identity Verification & Biometrics

Applicants must prove their identity in person. For Fast-Track processing (around 2 weeks), visit a Finnish mission, consulate, or VFS Global center within 5 working days of submission. For standard processing (1–2 months), the visit must be completed within 3 months. Passports, original documents, and fingerprints are required.

06

Decision & Travel Authorization

Monitor your Enter Finland account for updates and respond promptly to any additional information requests. Once approved, applicants with a D-visa may travel to Finland immediately, while others must wait for their residence permit card before traveling.

07

Arrival in Finland & Permit Card Delivery

If approved with a D-visa, travel immediately and receive your residence permit card in Finland. Applicants without a D-visa travel after receiving their card. Citizens of visa-free countries may also choose to receive their card in Finland.

08

Personal Registration & Identity Setup

Register your address with the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV) and obtain your Finnish personal identity code, which is required for work, banking, and official registrations.

09

Company Registration & Operations

Register your company with the Finnish Patent and Registration Office (Trade Register) and open both business and personal bank accounts to officially begin operations in Finland.

Required Documents

For Eligibility Statement (Business Finland)

The application requires comprehensive documentation, including a detailed business plan written in English, Finnish, or Swedish, along with a concise 5–10 slide pitch deck summarizing the business. Passport copies are required for all team members, supported by CVs that clearly highlight relevant expertise. You must also provide company information outlining ownership percentages, team roles, and planned resource allocation. Evidence of the current status of the business—such as demos, prototypes, pilot projects, customer contacts, or intellectual property—should be included. If you are relocating an existing company, proof of the company’s existence and a clear commitment to transfer the business along with its IP are mandatory.

For Residence Permit (Migri)

The required documents include a valid passport that remains valid beyond the intended period of stay, an Eligibility Statement issued by Business Finland and dated within the last four months, and a recent passport photo that meets police guidelines. Applicants must also provide proof of legal stay in their current country, along with financial proof such as bank statements, funding decisions, or income documentation. Form MP_1 is required only if the application is submitted from within Finland.

For Extended Permit

Applicants may be required to submit updated accounts, including a current income statement and balance sheet, to demonstrate continued eligibility. Both the team and the company must still meet the startup criteria, and if necessary, the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) may request a new Eligibility Statement to confirm ongoing compliance.

Costs & Financial Requirements

Government Fees

Eligibility Statement: Free (online and paper)
First residence permit: ~€400–450 (online), ~€480–520 (paper)
Extended permit: ~€160–200 (online), ~€250–300 (paper)
Permanent residence permit: €240 (online), €350 (paper)
D-visa (optional): Included with the residence permit application
Family member permits: ~€470 each (online), ~€520 each (paper)

Living Cost Requirements

Estimated Total First-Year Costs

Application fees (2 founders): €800–900
Living costs proof: €24,720–29,040 (for two people)
Company registration: €275–400
Relocation costs: Variable
Total minimum funds needed: ~€26,000–30,000

Success Factors: What Business Finland Looks For

What Strengthens Your Application

A strong application highlights a diverse and capable founding team with complementary skills across technology, business, marketing, and operations, backed by relevant industry or domain expertise, a proven track record of execution, and full commitment to relocating to and working in Finland. It demonstrates genuine innovation through a truly differentiated technology, business model, or approach, supported by clear competitive advantages and defensible intellectual property or unique capabilities. The venture must show clear international scalability, with a product or service designed for global growth, a large addressable market, and a well-defined path from Finland to international expansion. Strong market validation is essential, including a deep understanding of customer needs and pain points, clearly identified target segments, early traction such as LOIs, pilots, beta users, or customer conversations, and a realistic revenue model. Finally, the application should present concrete and well-structured plans, including a detailed business plan with financial projections, clear milestones and growth strategy, and a solid understanding of the resources and timeline required for execution.

Common Reasons for Rejection

Common reasons for rejection include team-related issues such as having only a single founder, lacking complementary skills within the team, founders who are not genuinely committed to relocating, or the use of paid “co-founder” services instead of real founding partners. Business model problems are also critical, particularly when the idea is not innovative enough, relies on a traditional or local-only service model, falls under excluded categories like restaurants, consulting, or import/export, or fails to show a clear competitive advantage. Insufficient preparation is another major factor, including vague business plans, no real evidence of market research or validation, unrealistic financial projections, or poor English proficiency that affects clear communication. Finally, financial concerns such as inadequate documented personal funds, unrealistic expectations around funding, or the absence of a clear path to financial sustainability can significantly weaken the application.

Finland vs. Other Startup Visas

Feature

Finland

Estonia

Denmark

Investment Required

None

External Funding Needed

No

Initial Permit

2 years

12-18 months (visa) / 5 years (TRP)

2 years

Processing Time

2 weeks - 2 months

1-3 months

~2 months

Annual Cap

None

75 Team Required

Yes (2+)

No

Path to PR

4-6 years

5 years

4-8 years

Path to Citizenship

8 years

9 years

Language for PR

B1 Finnish/Swedish

B1 Estonian

Danish 2

Corporate Tax

20%

0% (reinvested)

22%

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for the Finland Startup Permit as a solo founder?

No. The Finland Startup Permit requires a minimum of two founders with complementary expertise, both planning to relocate to Finland. This is a firm requirement—Business Finland will not approve Eligibility Statements for single-founder applications. If you’re a solo founder, consider programs in Estonia (no team requirement), Canada, or the UK.

How much money do I need to show in my bank account?

For 2025, you need to demonstrate €1,030-1,210 per month depending on where in Finland you’ll live, with Helsinki requiring the highest amount. For a 2-year permit, this means approximately €24,720-29,040 total. The funds must be accessible for personal living expenses—not locked in business investments. Business Finland recommends showing funds for the full permit duration.

What happens if my startup fails after I receive the permit?

Unlike many startup visa programs, Finland doesn’t automatically revoke your permit if your business struggles. However, you must continue to meet the permit criteria. If you pivot to a new idea, you should still be operating an innovative startup with growth potential. Migri conducts post-decision monitoring, so be prepared to demonstrate continued eligibility. If you can no longer meet the criteria, you may need to apply for a different permit type or leave Finland.

Do I need to speak Finnish to get the Startup Permit?

No. The initial Startup Permit has no Finnish or Swedish language requirement. You need sufficient English proficiency to operate an international business (applications must be in English, Finnish, or Swedish). However, language requirements apply later: B1 Finnish or Swedish is required for permanent residence and citizenship. Many entrepreneurs start learning Finnish after arriving, and free language courses are widely available.

Can I work for another company while on the Startup Permit?

Yes. The Startup Permit allows you to work for other employers in addition to your startup activities. This provides flexibility if you need additional income while building your company. However, your primary focus should remain on developing your startup.

How does the Eligibility Statement evaluation work?

Business Finland evaluates four main areas: (1) whether your business idea is innovative and addresses a real market need, (2) whether your business model has international growth potential, (3) whether your team has the complementary skills and commitment needed, and (4) whether you have sufficient resources for early-stage development. They look for evidence of market understanding, competitive differentiation, and realistic plans. The evaluation typically takes about one month.

What if my Eligibility Statement expires before I can apply for the residence permit?

The Eligibility Statement is valid for 4 months from issuance. If it expires before you submit your residence permit application, you must apply for a new statement. Plan your timeline carefully—prepare all residence permit documents while waiting for the Eligibility Statement so you can apply immediately upon approval.

Can my family join me on the Startup Permit?

Yes. Your spouse and dependent children (under 18) can apply for residence permits based on family ties simultaneously with your application. They can also use the fast-track service if they apply at the same time. Family members have their own application fees (approximately €470-520 each).

How does Finland's startup ecosystem compare to Estonia's?

Both are excellent Nordic/Baltic options. Finland has a larger, more established ecosystem with higher VC funding (€1.5B in 2024) and more unicorns in absolute terms. Estonia offers advantages for digital businesses (0% tax on reinvested profits, e-Residency integration) and doesn’t require a co-founder. Finland has stronger deep tech, gaming, and cleantech sectors, while Estonia excels in fintech and digital services. Processing times are similar, but Estonia allows solo founders while Finland requires teams.

What support is available after I arrive in Finland?

Finland offers extensive startup support: Business Helsinki and Startup Soft Landing services (free advisory and relocation support), Maria 01 (Europe’s largest startup campus), NewCo Helsinki (business advisory), regional incubators and accelerators, and Business Finland funding programs (like Tempo funding). The startup community is known for being collaborative and welcoming to internationals.

Is the Finland Startup Permit a good path to EU permanent residence?

It can be, but it’s a longer path than some alternatives. You’ll need 4-6 years of continuous residence (with recent reforms pushing toward 6 years standard), B1 language proficiency in Finnish or Swedish, and 2 years of work history. This is longer than Estonia’s 5-year path but provides access to one of Europe’s strongest economies and highest-quality-of-life countries. If speed to permanent residence is your priority, Canada’s immediate PR or Estonia’s 5-year timeline may be better choices.

What are the best sectors for startups in Finland?

Finland has particular strength in: Gaming (Supercell, Rovio heritage; strong talent pool), Deep Tech (quantum computing, AI, advanced materials), Cleantech (strong government support, sustainability focus), Health Tech (world-class healthcare system, medical research), Enterprise Software (RELEX, Aiven show B2B success), Fintech (strong banking infrastructure), and 5G/Connectivity (Nokia legacy, advanced infrastructure). However, any innovative startup with international potential can qualify.

Ready to Start Your Finland Journey?

Finland offers a unique combination: a world-class startup ecosystem, fast processing times, no investment requirement, and exceptional quality of life. The requirement for a co-founding team reflects Finland’s collaborative business culture and sets founders up for success.

Next steps:

Find or confirm your co-founder(s) with complementary skills
Develop your business plan and pitch deck
Contact Business Helsinki’s Startup Soft Landing service for free guidance
Prepare your Eligibility Statement application
Apply through Enter Finland

The Finnish startup ecosystem is known for being welcoming to international founders. With the right preparation and a genuinely innovative idea, the Startup Permit can be your gateway to building a successful global company from one of Europe’s most innovative nations.