IMPACT – LOW

What is the change? Foreign nationals applying for a residence permit will now be asked whether they want to apply for registration in the Finnish Population Information System, which allows them to receive a Finnish ID number. The change also applies to EU nationals registering their right of residence in Finland.

What does the change mean? Foreign nationals will more easily be able to obtain a Finnish ID number. Previously, foreign nationals were required to apply for an ID number separately after obtaining a residence permit.

  • Implementation timeframe: The change was implemented Dec. 1.
  • Visas/permits affected:Residence permits for foreign nationals; certificates of registered right of residence in Finland for EU nationals; residence cards for non-EU nationals with family ties to EU nationals who reside in Finland.
  • Who is affected: Non-EU nationals seeking residence permits; EU nationals registering their right of residence in Finland; non-EU nationals with family ties to EU nationals who reside in Finland.
  • Impact on processing times: The change eliminates one step for foreign nationals applying for residence permits and Finnish ID numbers. They are now able to do both on the same application.
  • Business impact: The change makes it easier to obtain a Finnish ID number which, in turn, makes banking and interacting with public agencies and employers easier.
  • Next steps: Foreign nationals applying for residence permits in Finland can now apply for a Finnish ID number simultaneously. Applicants should note, however, that they still must register their place of residence at a Local Register Office. Municipal registration is required before foreign nationals can access social services, such as health care and child care, in their municipality.

Background: Prior to the change, foreign nationals had to obtain a residence permit before applying for an ID number, which is not automatically issued. The applicant must ask to be registered to the Finnish Population Information System when applying for a residence permit in order to receive an ID number.

BAL Analysis: Applicants for residence permits in Finland should take advantage of the new option to simultaneously apply for a residence permit and a Finnish ID number. Although the change does not eliminate municipal registration requirements, it nonetheless makes it easier to obtain an ID number, which makes living, working, and doing business in Finland easier.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Finland. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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