Finland has recently updated its Schengen Visa Policy, announcing a significant increase in the financial requirements for travelers. Starting from January 1, 2024, individuals applying for a Schengen visa to enter Finland will need to demonstrate access to 50 euros for each day of their planned stay in the country. This change marks a substantial rise from the previous daily requirement of 30 euros and is a response to the overall increase in living costs.
This policy adjustment aligns with Finland’s application of Article 14.4 of the European Union’s Visa Code. The new regulation not only involves an increase in the daily financial requirement but also introduces a commitment declaration and accommodation system. Under this system, the financial means for the trip can be provided by a person inviting the visa applicant to Finland. This person, either a Finnish citizen or a resident with a valid permit, must fill out a commitment declaration form, which will then be attached to the visa application.
Suomi nostaa Schengen-viisumeiden päiväkohtaista varallisuusvaatimusta 50 euroon matkapäivää kohden ja ottaa käyttöön viisumeiden ylläpitositoumuksen.
Lue lisää ⬇️https://t.co/pwPKpK3TUT
— MFA Finland 🇫🇮 (@Ulkoministerio) January 2, 2024
The decision to raise the financial requirement reflects Finland’s commitment to adapting its visa policies in response to economic changes. By increasing the daily financial threshold, Finland aims to ensure that visitors can adequately support themselves during their stay, thereby maintaining high standards of security and wellbeing for both travelers and residents.
The introduction of the commitment declaration is a significant development in the visa application process. It allows for a more flexible approach to proving financial means, potentially making it easier for visitors with Finnish connections to travel to the country. This aspect of the policy is particularly beneficial for those who may not have sufficient funds themselves but are visiting family or friends who can provide financial support.
As Finland implements these changes, travelers planning to visit the country need to be aware of the new requirements. The increase to 50 euros per day represents a more realistic reflection of the cost of living and traveling in Finland, ensuring that visitors are better prepared financially for their trip.
The Finnish government’s update to the Schengen Visa Policy is part of a broader trend among EU countries to regularly review and adjust visa requirements. These changes are essential for maintaining the integrity of the Schengen Area while ensuring that the needs and safety of travelers and residents are adequately met.
Travelers are advised to carefully review the new requirements and prepare accordingly for their upcoming trips to Finland. With these changes, Finland continues to welcome international visitors while ensuring that its immigration and tourism policies remain sustainable and secure.
