Update on the New Finnish Citizenship Law — Effective 17 December 2025!

The Finnish Immigration Service has announced a significant update to the Finnish citizenship process. The new provisions under the revised Finnish Citizenship Act will enter into force on 17 December 2025. Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the upcoming changes and plan their applications accordingly.

Under the revised system, citizenship applications can be completed and submitted entirely online through the official Enter Finland service. This reform aims to enhance efficiency and transparency by allowing applicants to follow the progress of their case, receive real-time notifications, and communicate directly with Migri through secure digital channels.

It is important to note that the new law will not be applied retrospectively. Applications submitted before 17 December 2025 will continue to be processed under the current legal framework. Only applications filed on or after that date will be assessed according to the revised provisions.

Financial Self-Sufficiency as a Core Requirement:

Under the updated framework, applicants must now demonstrate adequate and stable income that does not depend on unemployment benefits or social assistance. This amendment highlights the importance of financial independence as a cornerstone of integration into Finnish society.

Applicants should be prepared to submit comprehensive documentation of their employment, business activities, or other lawful income sources to prove their ability to support themselves without reliance on public funds. The intent of this reform is to ensure that citizenship is granted to individuals who are economically active, self-reliant, and able to contribute to Finnish society.

Enhanced Scrutiny of Criminal Background:

The revised law also introduces stricter assessments of applicants’ criminal records. Greater emphasis will be placed on the applicant’s integrity and compliance with Finnish law.

Individuals with a criminal history may face mandatory waiting periods before becoming eligible to apply for citizenship. The length of these waiting periods will depend on the nature of the offense, sentence length, and time elapsed since completion of the punishment.

While minor infractions, such as small fines, are unlikely to automatically disqualify an applicant, repeated or serious offenses will constitute significant barriers to approval.

Revocation of Citizenship in Serious Cases:

In the most severe instances — including terrorism-related offenses, treason, or acts threatening Finland’s vital interests — the updated legislation empowers the authorities to revoke Finnish citizenship.

Revocation may occur if it is determined that an individual provided false information during the application process or engaged in conduct that undermines national security. This change marks a clear policy shift toward ensuring that Finnish citizenship remains a symbol of integrity, loyalty, and respect for Finland’s laws and values.

Our Strong Recommendation:

Given the substantial tightening of eligibility criteria and the introduction of new conditions related to income, criminal history, and potential revocation, we strongly advise individuals who meet the current requirements to apply for Finnish citizenship before 17 December 2025.

Our office will continue providing high-quality legal and administrative services, understanding that immigration matters can significantly impact lives and futures. If you’re facing challenges with your residence permit, do not hesitate to reach out to us for professional assistance.