How to get a visa to study in Finland

Dreaming of studying in Finland? Great choice! With its world-class universities, safe environment, and high-quality education system, Finland is quickly becoming a top destination for international students—especially from Nepal.

But before you can hop on a flight and start your studies, there is one important thing you'll need to sort out: your student visa (officially called a Residence Permit for Studies). If you're not sure how it works or where to start, don't worry—we've broken it all down for you here. And yes, Trust Education Foundation (TEF) is here to guide you every step of the way.

 

Step 1: Get Accepted into a University in Finland

You can't apply for a visa until you've been accepted to a Finnish university or university of applied sciences. So first things first—apply to your chosen course. Once you receive your Letter of Admission, you're officially eligible to apply for a visa.

 

Step 2: Collect All the Required Documents

This part can feel a bit overwhelming, but it’s actually simple if you stay organized. Here's what you will need:

  • A valid passport

  • Your offer letter from a Finnish university

  • Proof that you have enough money to support yourself 

  • Health insurance that covers your entire stay

  • A passport-size photo

  • Proof that you’ve paid your tuition (if your university requires it)

  • Your academic certificates (SEE, +2, Bachelor’s, etc.)

  • IELTS/PTE score or a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate

  • A completed visa application form

  • Some documents are required to be attested by MOFA and Finland Counsulate Office

If you're not sure what some of these documents mean or how to get them—TEF can help you every step of the way.

 

Step 3: Apply to Enter Finland

Once your documents are ready:

  • Book your appointment at the VFS Kathmandu

  • Fill out your residence permit application

  • Upload all your documents

  • Pay the fee (€450 if done online)

 

Step 4: Go for Biometrics

After applying, you will need to visit the VFS Kathmandu to give your fingerprints and show your original documents. This step is called "biometric verification" and is a required part of the visa process.

 

Step 5: Wait for the Result

Once you have done everything, all that’s left is to wait. Most students hear back within 8 to 12 weeks. 

 

Step 6: Get Your Residence Permit and Prepare to Fly

Once your application is approved, you’ll get your Residence Permit Card. This is your official green light to fly to Finland and begin your studies.

From here, it's time to plan your travel!

 

At Trust Education Foundation, we know the Finnish visa process inside out. We have helped many students just like you get accepted, apply correctly, and fly out smoothly.

Here is what we offer:

  • Help collecting and checking your documents

  • Advice on choosing the right university and course

  • Step-by-step visa application guidance

  • Explain properly about bank balance requirements, insurance, and embassy appointments

We don't just help you apply—we help you succeed.

If you're serious about studying in Finland, start early. Give yourself time to collect your documents, apply calmly, and handle everything properly. And remember—you don’t have to do this alone.

Visit Trust Education Foundation (TEF) today, and let us walk with you through every step of the process.

Finland is waiting. We'll help you get there.