From March 24, 2025, the Finnish Immigration Service will start issuing automated decisions on applications for extended permits for researchers.
What to Expect
- An automated decision is a decision that the Finnish Immigration Service’s system automatically makes on an application.
- The processing of an application may involve automated steps and steps performed by Finnish Immigration Service specialists.
- The system makes an automated decision only when this is possible under law, based on the rules formulated by the Finnish Immigration Service.
- The system uses these rules to check whether an application meets the requirements laid down in law. Only positive decisions are made automatically.
- For those who cannot get an automated decision on their application for an extended permit, a Finnish Immigration Service specialist will process the application and issue a decision on it.
Automated Decision Eligibility
Applicants can receive an automated decision on their application if the following conditions are met:
- They are applying for an extended permit for a researcher in Finland.
- They have completed a master’s degree.
- They are at least 18 years old.
- They have an employment relationship with a Finnish research organization.
- They will not participate in a mobility program of the European Union while the permit they are applying for is valid.
- They have submitted their application online in Enter Finland.
- They have submitted the application on March 19, 2025, or later.
- They have filled in the application form with care and have submitted all the required information and attachments.
- They meet all the requirements for the residence permit. There is no need for case-by-case consideration due to, for example, granting an exemption from a requirement.
- No family members are applying for a residence permit together with the applicant.
- Their details are not subject to non-disclosure for personal safety reasons.
- They have not applied for or been granted international protection.
- They have not previously received a decision to deport them from Finland.
- There are no gaps between their hosting agreements.
Erickson Insights and Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.