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The Finland visa application journey from Nigeria can be challenging. However, with the right guidance and preparation, navigating through this process becomes an exciting adventure in itself.
Planning a trip to Finland from Nigeria involves more than just packing your bags. As a Nigerian passport holder, you’ll start by gathering the required documents, attending the visa interview, and waiting for the visa processing.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the Finland visa application process in Nigeria, providing you with valuable insights and tips to ensure a smooth and successful experience.
How to Apply for Finland Visa in Nigeria 2024
If you are in Nigeria, follow these steps for your Finland visa application.
1. Research Visa Types
Before diving into the application process, it’s crucial to determine the type of visa that suits your travel purpose. Whether it’s for tourism, business, study, or family visits, each visa category has specific requirements and documentation.
2. Gather the required documents.
Once you’ve identified the visa type, gather all necessary documents meticulously. Common documents include a valid passport, passport-sized photographs, a visa application form, a travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, financial statements, and travel insurance.
3. Complete the Application Form
The visa application form is your gateway to Finland. Fill it out accurately and truthfully, providing all requested information. Double-check for any errors before submission to avoid delays or rejections.
4. Book an Appointment
Many visa application centers require appointments for document submission and biometric data collection. Schedule your appointment well in advance to secure your preferred date and time slot.
5. Attend the Visa Interview
Depending on the visa type and individual circumstances, you may be required to attend a visa interview. Prepare thoroughly by familiarizing yourself with your travel plans and being ready to answer questions about your trip.
6. Pay the Visa Fee
Visa applications typically incur a processing fee, which must be paid either online or at the application center. Keep your payment receipt as proof of payment. Check out more Visa Information.
7. Await Visa Processing
After submitting your application and attending the necessary appointments, patiently await visa processing. Processing times vary, so stay updated on your application status through the provided tracking system. Track your application | vfs global
Processing Time for Finland Visa Application in Nigeria
Application processing takes up to 15 calendar days, but incomplete applications or those requiring further scrutiny may experience longer processing times.
It’s important to note that the Embassy processes each application individually. Additionally, the Embassy may request further documentation or information or schedule an interview, which could extend the processing time.
Please note that, as per Article 23 of the regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a Community Code on Visas (Visa Code), the period of consideration of your visa application by the respective Consular authority may be extended up to a maximum of 30 calendar days.
Exceptionally, when additional documentation is needed in specific cases, the period may be extended up to a maximum of 45 calendar days.
An application filed incorrectly and carelessly can cause a delay or denial of a visa. Submitting all the required documents when submitting the visa application will speed up the processing time.
The Finland Visa Application Center or the Finnish Embassy may ask the applicant to provide additional details, such as a more detailed trip plan. If the requested documents are not submitted by the agreed date, the visa application may be decided on without them, potentially to the applicant’s disadvantage.
Basic Travel Requirements for Finland Visa Application in Nigeria
- fully completed and signed visa application form
- Two recently taken photos: Both photos must be taken within the last three months and must follow all visa photo requirements.
- A valid passport that is not older than 10 years: It should be valid for at least three more months beyond the date you plan to leave Finland.
- A round-trip reservation or itinerary: This must include dates and flight numbers specifying entry and exit from Finland.
- A travel insurance policy: This is a document that proves you have travel health insurance for the whole Schengen territory, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros in case of any medical emergency such as illnesses, accidents, or even repatriation in case of death.
- Proof of accommodation: a document that shows where you will be accommodated throughout your stay in Finland.
- Proof of financial means: evidence that you have enough money to support yourself financially throughout your stay in the country. This can be one of the following:
- Bank account statement: that shows you have enough money in your account for the trip. The statement shall be no older than 3 months.
- Sponsorship Letter: by another person that confirms they will be financially supporting your trip to Finland. For this letter to be valid, it must be accompanied by a bank statement from the sponsor, no older than three months.
- Proof of payment of the visa fee: €60 for adults and €35 for children from 6 to 12 years old.
Types of Schengen Visas Offered at VFS Global in Nigeria
In your Finland visa application, the visa you apply for will depend on:
- The duration of your trip
- The purpose of your trip
VFS Global accepts applications for short-stay visas only, which means trips lasting up to 90 days. If you wish to go to Finland for longer than 90 days, you should contact the embassy for more information.
It is your responsibility to apply for the correct one, so you should look at all the information before you apply. You can do this on VFS Global’s website.
Types of visas:
- Tourist visa: for leisure, recreation, or sightseeing
- Business Visa: for meetings, conferences, training, trade fairs, etc. Please note, that if you are going to work in Finland, you need to obtain a residence permit, which you can apply for through the embassy
- Visiting family and friends: for visiting family members or friends legally residing in Finland
- Conference, fair, seminar, congress—for cultural purposes in Finland
- Official purposes in Finland
- Research or training in Finland
Visas are usually issued as:
- Single-entry: allows the holder to enter Finland once and stay for up to 90 days in any 180 days
- Double-entry: allows entry into Finland twice and is valid within the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180 days
- Multiple entry: is granted for several consecutive visits to the Schengen area. The total duration of the stays may not exceed 90 days in 180 days. A multiple-entry visa is valid for a maximum of five (5) years
Conclusion
Embarking on a journey to Finland from Nigeria is an exciting endeavor, made possible by successfully navigating the visa application process.
As you eagerly anticipate your adventure in Finland, remember that each step of the application process brings you closer to experiencing the beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality that Finland has to offer. Bon voyage and safe travels!
