With the globalimmigrantsThe trend has shifted towards "lifestyle" and "family", and Finland, a Nordic country with a "high happiness index", is optimizing its immigration system.2025.Immigration to FinlandBureau makes several key updates to family reunification policyIn particular, the application criteria, material requirements and review cycle for spouses, minor children and parents have been made clearer and more humanized.
For Chinese people who are already working, studying or settled in Finland, this is undoubtedly an important opportunity to bring their families to live together. In this article, we will systematize the latest family reunification policy in 2025 and help you to clarify the application process, prepare materials and avoid common misunderstandings.
I. Who can apply for family reunification?
The Finnish family reunification policy is aimed at the following main groups:
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mate(Legal or de facto marriages, including registered partnerships)
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Minor children(under 18, including stepchildren, adopted children)
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father and mother(Proof of financial or care dependency is usually required)
It needs to be emphasized:The main applicant must have a valid residence permit in Finland(e.g. student visas, work permits, long-term or permanent residence) to be eligible to apply for reunification of family members.
II. List of key points for the 2025 update
followingImmigration to FinlandThe Bureau made several key adjustments in 2025:
| Policy Change | clarification |
|---|---|
| 📌 Dynamic adjustment of household income standards | Updated minimum income requirements based on inflation and cost of living, starting in 2025 for the €2700/month(two-person family) |
| 📌 More transparent mechanisms for recognizing de facto unions | You can also apply for spousal reunification by submitting proof of cohabitation (not less than 2 years). |
| 📌 Digitization of application channels | The electronic system of the Immigration Bureau is fully upgraded to support online form filling, uploading of materials, and real-time progress checking. |
| 📌 Prioritization of children's education | Easier access to public school places for reunited children, accelerated application process |
These changes further reflect Finland's family-friendly immigration philosophy.
III. Spouse reunification: the most common form of family migration
Whether you have a work permit, a study permit or a long-term residence, you can apply for reunification for your spouse as long as you are legally residing in Finland.
✅ List of essential materials:
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Copies of passports of both parties
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Marriage certificate (bilingual or with certified copy)
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Copy of residence card or visa
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Proof of income (bank statements, payslips, employment contracts, etc.)
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Proof of housing (rental contract)
✅ Required if a de facto marriage or unregistered partner:
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Joint accounts/deeds/leases
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Group photos or social evidence
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Proof of residence for more than two years of living together
🎯 Approval cycle: Usually 2-4 months, or less if the application is complete and successfully submitted in the online system.
IV. Children's reunification: priority care for children's education
Children (under the age of 18) are prioritized for reunification and are relatively less difficult to apply for.
✅ Applicable:
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Families with both or one of the parties residing in Finland
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Children born in or out of wedlock (birth certificate required)
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Infants and young children who have been born in Finland but have not yet been granted status
🎯 Education Benefit Highlights::
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Direct application to free public schools in Finland
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Eligible for child support (approx. €100-200/month)
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Pre-school, after-school care fully subsidized
V. Parental reunification: more rigorous but not hopeless
Finland is more cautious about parental reunification and requires proof of the parents' financial or care needs.Heavy dependence on children in FinlandThe
✅ Easier to be approved if you meet one of the following conditions:
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Elderly parents, in poor health, needing daily care
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No other immediate family support in the country
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The child has permanent residence or Finnish citizenship and is able to assume full financial responsibility.
🎯 Suggested documents to be prepared::
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Medical certificate, no income certificate
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Declaration of maintenance obligations, records of regular remittances
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Letter of sponsorship and proof of financial capacity
longer approval times.It is recommended to start preparing materials more than six months in advanceThe
VI. Frequently Asked Questions and Practical Advice
| concern | solution (a math equation) |
|---|---|
| 📌 Does it have to be submitted in person? | transferring entityImmigration to FinlandOnline submission on the official website, or a lawyer/family member can handle it on your behalf |
| 📌 What if my application is rejected? | Appeals or reapplications with additional information can be filed through the USCIS website |
| 📌 Can I work after reunification? | Spouses and children with a residence card are generally entitled to work or study freely. |
✅ Conclusion: Family reunion is a warmer belonging beyond identity
Immigration to FinlandThe essence of the program is not just to live in a different country, but to bring your loved ones and start a new chapter together. Finland, as one of the happiest countries in the world, continues to optimize its family reunion mechanism in terms of policy, creating opportunities for you to pick up your family for a reunion if you are struggling outside.
If you are already studying or working in Finland, or have just taken up residence status.It's the perfect time to bring the family over.The
