Family reunification

If you wish to move to Finland to join a family member living in Lahti and you are not an EU or Nordic citizen, you will need a residence permit based on family ties. As a citizen of an EU country, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland, you must register as a resident if your residence lasts more than three months.

In Finland, the definition of a family is narrower than in many other countries. Family members, according to Finnish law, include a spouse, a cohabiting partner, a registered partner, the guardian of a child under 18, and dependent children.

Any other relative may obtain a residence permit if they are fully dependent on a family member living in Finland. Mere poor health or financial dependency are not sufficient grounds. Relatives of a person living in Finland who has a residence permit based on international protection may also be granted a permit. In most cases, it is also required that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family, or your family member living in Finland has adequate funds.

Visit the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) website to read more about the conditions for entry and obtaining a residence permit.