Individuals looking to reconnect with their Finnish roots and gain access to European Union citizenship often want to know what it takes to acquire Finnish citizenship by descent. A key part of the pathway to becoming a Finnish citizen is ensuring that you’ve submitted the required documentation.
This guide outlines the core categories of documents required for Finnish citizenship by descent applications, with answers to FAQs about applying, so that you can navigate the process with more ease.
Why Documentation Matters So Much
Documentation is a key element when it comes to applying for ancestral citizenship in EU member countries. You must be able to prove your family ties to your Finnish citizen ancestor, and you can substantiate your claims with vital records like birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other documents.
Citizenship applications are often lengthy processes, so ensuring that you’re as prepared as possible with the right paperwork may save you time and reduce your chances of rejection. Understanding the Citizenship Act can also help applicants comply with the Finnish government’s documentation standards.
Core Documentation for Finnish Citizenship by Descent Applications
All applicants for Finnish citizenship by descent must complete a citizenship declaration or a residence permit application form (if establishing residency in order to naturalize).
Aside from the application forms, applicants must also provide core civil documentation to prove their Finnish ancestry, including:
- Birth certificates of the applicant, parent, and grandparent (when applicable).
- Proof that the ancestor was a Finnish citizen by birth, via birth certificates and other vital records like marriage certificates (and name change certificates when applicable).
Applicants must also show proof of identity and submit the following documents:
- A valid passport or national ID card.
- Evidence of no criminal record via a police clearance certificate.
- Receipt showing payment of the application fees.
Having clear and accurate documentation helps demonstrate genuine family ties to your Finnish lineage — a key requirement under the Finnish Citizenship Act.
FAQs
Are there Finnish citizenship application fees?
Yes, Finnish citizenship by descent declaration fees: €200-€300; residence permit fees: €520 for paper applications and €470 for electronic applications; naturalization application fees: €460 for adults, €100 for minors; Administrative appeal fees: €270; Supreme Administrative appeal fees: €510.
Where do I submit my application for Finnish ancestry citizenship?
The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) reviews and decides upon citizenship and residence permit applications. If applying in Finland, go through a service point of the Finnish Immigration Service. If applying from abroad, go through Finnish consulates and embassies in your country of residence.
Do documents need to be translated?
Yes, any foreign documents you submit with your Finnish citizenship by descent application must be officially translated into Finnish, Swedish, or English and legalized via apostille or superlegalization.
How long are processing times?
Processing times for Finnish citizenship by descent applications vary depending on where you apply and whether your documents are complete. Submitting all required materials and proof of family ties can help avoid delays.
What if I’m rejected?
If your application is rejected by Migri, you’ll receive a formal decision explaining the reasons. You are entitled to file an appeal with the relevant Administrative Court within 30 days of receiving the decision. Appeals can be elevated to the Supreme Administrative Court under certain conditions.
Final Documentation Checklist
To be as prepared as possible when submitting your Finnish citizenship by descent application, refer to and check off every item on this list:
- Completed citizenship declaration or residence permit application.
- Birth certificates, marriage certificates, and name change certificates (when applicable) of parent or parent and grandparent, depending on descent pathway.
- Valid passport or national identity card.
- Police clearance certificate, showing no criminal record.
- Receipt of application payment.
Next Steps
Are you ready to start your journey to Finnish citizenship by descent and enjoy the associated benefits of European Union citizenship? Our experts have a proven track record of helping thousands of people acquire EU citizenship and reconnect with their roots.
We recommend starting with our $250 full-service package to learn your eligibility status, required documents, and next steps forward in applying for citizenship.Once approved, you can proudly hold a Finnish passport, granting access to one of the world’s strongest travel documents — and reaffirming your enduring family ties to Finland.