Moving to a new country can be an exciting yet challenging experience, especially when it comes to reuniting with loved ones. For many Filipinos living in Finland, bringing their partner to join them is a top priority.
This comprehensive guide outlines the steps and requirements for successfully bringing your partner to Finland, ensuring that the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
A Filipino’s Guide to Partner Visas in Finland
The information presented in this article is inspired by a YouTube video from Sheena Chenitez Vlog. Watch the link below to see the full video:
1. Understanding the Residence Permit
The first step in bringing your partner to Finland is to understand the type of residence permit they will need. In Finland, the most common permits for family reunification are:
- Residence Permit for a Spouse: This permit is for legally married couples.
- Residence Permit for a Cohabiting Partner: This permit applies to couples who have lived together for at least two years.
- Residence Permit for a Registered Partner: For partners in a registered partnership, similar to marriage.
2. Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a residence permit, certain criteria must be met by both the sponsor (the Filipino already living in Finland) and the applicant (the partner):
- Sponsor’s Criteria:
- Must have a valid residence permit in Finland (e.g., work, study, permanent residency).
- Must have sufficient income to support the partner. This includes proving that you can cover living expenses, housing, and other necessities.
- Applicant’s Criteria:
- Must have a valid passport.
- Must meet health and character requirements, including providing a police clearance certificate from the Philippines.
3. Application Process
The application process involves several steps and requires careful preparation to ensure all necessary documents are submitted correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Both the sponsor and the applicant need to provide various documents. Commonly required documents include:
- For the Sponsor:
- Proof of residence permit in Finland.
- Proof of income (e.g., payslips, employment contract).
- Proof of accommodation (e.g., rental agreement).
- For the Applicant:
- Valid passport.
- Birth certificate.
- Marriage certificate or proof of cohabitation.
- Police clearance certificate.
- Medical certificate (if required).
Step 2: Submit the Application
The application can be submitted online through the Enter Finland portal or at a Finnish embassy or consulate in the Philippines. The online process is often faster and allows for easier tracking of the application status.
- Online Application:
- Create an account on the Enter Finland portal.
- Fill out the application form, upload scanned copies of the required documents, and pay the application fee.
- Embassy/Consulate Application:
- Schedule an appointment at the Finnish embassy or consulate.
- Bring original documents and copies for submission.
- Pay the application fee at the embassy or consulate.
Step 3: Attend an Interview
In some cases, both the sponsor and the applicant may be required to attend an interview. This can be conducted at the Finnish immigration office in Finland or at the embassy/consulate in the Philippines. The interview is to verify the authenticity of the relationship and the provided information.
Step 4: Wait for the Decision
The processing time for a residence permit can vary, but it typically takes several months. During this time, the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) will review the application and may request additional information or documents.
4. After Approval
Once the residence permit is approved, there are several steps to take to ensure a smooth transition for the partner:
Travel Arrangements
- Book Flights: Ensure the partner books a flight to Finland. It’s advisable to book a round-trip ticket, even if the return date is far in the future, to meet immigration requirements.
- Prepare for Arrival: Gather necessary items for the journey and ensure all important documents are in hand.
Settling in Finland
- Register with Local Authorities: Upon arrival, the partner must register with the local Digital and Population Data Services Agency to obtain a Finnish personal identity code.
- Open a Bank Account: It is essential to open a Finnish bank account for managing finances.
- Enroll in Health Insurance: Ensure the partner is covered by health insurance. Depending on the residence permit, they may be eligible for the Finnish public health system.
5. Tips for a Smooth Process
Here are some tips to make the process of bringing your partner to Finland as smooth as possible:
- Stay Organized: Keep all documents in order and create a checklist to ensure nothing is missed.
- Start Early: Begin the application process as early as possible, as it can take several months to complete.
- Seek Professional Advice: If you are unsure about any part of the process, consider seeking advice from immigration experts or lawyers.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check the status of your application and respond promptly to any requests for additional information from Migri.
6. Challenges and Considerations
While the process can be straightforward, there are potential challenges and considerations:
- Income Requirements: Meeting the income threshold can be difficult for some sponsors, so it’s important to plan finances carefully.
- Document Authentication: Ensuring all documents are authenticated and translated (if necessary) can be time-consuming.
- Cultural Adjustment: Both the sponsor and the partner may face cultural adjustment issues. Support each other through this transition.
Bringing your partner to Finland is a significant and rewarding step for many Filipinos. By understanding the eligibility criteria, gathering the necessary documents, and following the application process carefully, you can successfully reunite with your loved one in Finland. With careful planning and preparation, you can ensure a smooth transition and start a new chapter of your life together in this beautiful country.