Current affairs
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20.7.2021
If you travel, be prepared for unexpected changes caused by COVID-19
The prolonged COVID-19 epidemic has led to an exceptional situation for travellers. This summer, borders have gradually started to open up and, thanks to vaccinations, safe and healthy travel is possible to a greater extent. Many Finns are also spending their holidays abroad. However, it is important to remember that the COVID-19 pandemic is still ongoing and that infections are rising again in many holiday destinations popular among Finns. When travelling, it is important to act responsibly and observe guidelines in place to ensure health security. -
17.6.2021
Changes to travel recommendations: exercise special caution when travelling to the EU and the Schengen area
The Ministry for Foreign Affairs recommends exercising special caution when travelling to the EU and Schengen area The Ministry also recommends avoiding unnecessary travel to countries outside the EU and Schengen area, except for countries for which the restrictions on entry have been lifted.
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1.6.2021
Advance voting abroad in Finland's municipal elections in 2021
The municipal elections will be held on Sunday 13 June 2021. The Act on the Postponement of the 2021 Municipal Elections entered into force on 29 March 2021. The advance voting period will be from 26 May to 8 June in Finland and from 2 to 5 June abroad. -
7.4.2021
Consultation by the European Commission on online visa application process
Respond to the European Commission’s questionnaire on an online visa application process. -
1.4.2021
Business travel during COVID-19: topical information about entry restrictions on the websites of Finnish missions abroad
To support people travelling on essential business during the coronavirus pandemic, Finnish missions abroad keep their websites updated on local travel restrictions. Rules and guidance in different countries can change rapidly, which is why the Ministry for Foreign Affairs advises people travelling on business to always check the official website of the country of destination, to consider whether the trip is essential, and to act responsibly. -
2.2.2021
Employer’s or client’s justification for the necessity of an employee entering the country
Are you foreign citizen and going to Finland for work during ? Here is more information about crossing the border: -
2.2.2021
Changes to travel recommendations: avoid all travel to Brazil, India and South Africa
The Ministry for Foreign Affairs urges to avoid all travel to the Brazil, India and South Africa in accordance with the recommendation of the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare. For all other countries, the Foreign Ministry’s general travel advice due to the COVID-19 pandemic is to avoid all but essential travel. -
26.1.2021
100 years of diplomatic relations between Latvia and Finland
Tuesday 26 January 2021 marks the 100th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Finland and Latvia. Finland was the first Nordic country to recognise de jure Latvia’s independence on 26 January 1921. A multitude of special events will take place in Finland and in Latvia throughout this year to commemorate the occasion. -
21.1.2021
Changes to travel recommendations: avoid all travel to United Kingdom, Ireland and South Africa
The Ministry for Foreign Affairs urges to avoid all travel to the United Kingdom, Ireland and South Africa in accordance with the recommendation of the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare. For all other countries, the Foreign Ministry’s general travel advice due to the COVID-19 pandemic is to avoid all but essential travel. -
21.12.2020
Applying for a visa during the COVID-19 pandemic on the basis of family ties or an established relationship
All Finnish missions abroad responsible for entry matters accept visa applications submitted by representatives of defined special groups. Representatives of such special groups include, for example, persons applying for a visa on the basis of family ties or an established relationship. The conditions for issuing a visa under the Schengen Visa Code must also be met.