Understanding Finland’s Updated Aliens Act: Key Changes to Entry Bans and Residence Permits

Finland’s Aliens Act Amendments: What You Need to Know

On 6 May 2025, significant amendments to Finland’s Aliens Act came into force, introducing stricter rules on entry bans, residence permit withdrawals, and a new obligation to cooperate with authorities. These changes affect individuals who receive negative decisions on residence permits or asylum applications, as well as those whose permits expire.

Key Changes: Entry Bans and Obligation to Cooperate

One of the major updates is the obligation to cooperate after receiving a removal decision. If you are denied a residence permit, face deportation, or have your permit withdrawn, you must comply with authorities and leave Finland within the given timeframe. Failure to do so may result in an entry ban, prohibiting you from entering Finland and other Schengen/EU countries for up to 5–15 years.

Additionally, voluntary return rules have been adjusted. Applicants can request an extension for voluntary departure, but only under special circumstances, with a €100 processing fee.

Stricter Rules on Residence Permit Withdrawals

The amendments clarify when a residence permit (temporary, permanent, or EU long-term) can be withdrawn, including cases where:

• The holder no longer resides in Finland.

• The person commits serious crimes or poses a threat to public security.

• Their refugee or subsidiary protection status is revoked due to criminal activity.

Extended Detention Periods for Non-Compliance

The maximum detention period for individuals refusing to cooperate with removal orders has been extended from 12 to 18 months, emphasizing Finland’s stricter stance on immigration enforcement.

For more details, visit the Finnish Immigration Service’s updated pages on Denial of Entry and Entry Bans

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Finland’s Aliens Act Amendments