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Finland Schengen Visa for Sri Lankan citizens: Requirements and application process
iVisa
10 min read
Updated on Jan 23, 2024

As a Sri Lankan citizen, if you intend to travel to Finland and other Schengen countries for tourism, business, or other short-term purposes, you will generally need to apply for a Schengen Visa.

Finland is a part of the Schengen Area, which is a group of 27 European countries that have abolished passport control at their common borders, allowing for unrestricted movement within the area.

Here's an overview of the requirements and process for applying for a Finland Schengen Visa for Sri Lankan citizens!

Finland Nature Landscape

What is the Finland Schengen Visa?

The Finland Schengen Visa is a type of visa that allows Sri Lankan travelers to enter Finland and travel to other Schengen Area countries for a short period of time. Finland is one of the 27 European countries participating in the Schengen Agreement, which establishes a common visa policy and eliminates border controls between member states.

With a Finland Schengen Visa, holders can travel to Finland for various purposes, such as tourism, business, visiting family or friends, attending conferences, or participating in cultural or sporting events.

The visa also grants entry to other Schengen countries, including popular destinations like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and more, without the need for additional visas.

Do Sri Lankan citizens need a visa for Finland?

Yes, Sri Lankan citizens need a visa to travel to Finland. The Schengen Visa allows Sri Lankan citizens to visit Finland and other Schengen countries for tourism, business, or other short-term purposes.

To obtain a Schengen Visa for Finland, Sri Lankan citizens can start their application online through us, then attend a visa appointment at the Finland Embassy or Consulate in Sri Lanka or through an authorized Visa Application Center.

How long is the Finland Schengen Visa valid for Sri Lankan citizens?

With this visa Sri Lankan travelers are allowed to stay up to 90 days Per Entry within a 180-day period. This means you can freely enter and travel between Finland and other Schengen countries as often as you like, as long as the total duration of your visit does not exceed 90 days.

However, the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs determines the type of visa you receive, whether it is multiple-entry, double-entry, or single-entry. Its validity varies between 180 days and 5 years (with a max. stay of 90 days Per Entry).

Can I extend the Finland Schengen Visa?

Typically, it is not possible to extend a Schengen Visa, unless there are exceptional circumstances such as a medical emergency. To extend your stay, you must exit the Schengen Area and apply for a new visa.

Read more about other Finland Visa requirements for a long-stay visa, work visa, or residence permit, on the Finland Foreign Ministry’s website.

Finland Schengen Visa fee: Cost of the visa for Sri Lankan citizens

The iVisa processing fee is USD $336.99, excluding government fees.

This includes full support to guide you from start to finish, plus a step-by-step guide to help you fill out the application form and prepare for your visa interview.

The government fee of approx. US$85 is paid separately during the visa appointment (half-price for children between the age of 6 and 12 and free for kids under 6 years old).

What is the Finland Schengen Visa processing time in 2023?

We currently offer the following processing option for the Finnish Schengen Visa:

  • Standard processing: Can take up to 30 days.

  • Government processing: The Finnish Department of Foreign Affairs aims to give a decision on your application within 15 days. However, this can depend on your application and the embassy's workload.

We recommend applying at least two months in advance to account for delays. It’s possible to start your application six months before your departure date.

Finland Schengen Visa application: How to apply in Sri Lanka

To apply for your Finland Visa without any hassle in Sri Lanka, you can follow the simple steps outlined below:

  • Step 1: Fill out the application form with your personal and travel details either on our website or using our user-friendly iVisa app.

  • Step 2: Review all the information you have entered and pay the iVisa processing fee using a debit or credit card or PayPal. Please note that the government fee will be paid directly at the Finnish Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Application Centre (VAC) during your visa appointment.

  • Step 3: Complete our simple application form. We will provide you with a comprehensive step-by-step guide on correctly filling out the form and the required documents you need to bring for the mandatory visa interview.

When applying through our services, you will only be required to upload a scanned copy of your passport and a passport photo.

Rest assured, we will schedule a visa appointment on your behalf and ensure that you are well informed about the remaining steps in the application process. With our assistance, visa applications become incredibly convenient and hassle-free!

Finland Schengen Visa requirements for Sri Lankan citizens

When you apply for the Finnish Schengen Visa through our services, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of documents via email that you must submit during the application process.

Here is a general overview of the required documents:

  • Copy of your valid Sri Lankan passport: Your valid passport must not expire within the next 6 months after arrival. If you have a residence permit or travel document from another country, include a copy of that too.

  • Travel itinerary: Include a confirmed return ticket to your home country, hotel reservation(s), tour bookings, or an invitation letter from your host.

  • Proof of sufficient funds: Provide supporting documents to demonstrate that you have enough financial resources to cover your expenses throughout your trip, such as bank statements.

  • Travel/medical insurance: Purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses up to €30,000 in the Schengen Area and includes repatriation in case of an emergency.

  • Two passport-size photos: If you do not have suitable photos, you can take advantage of our affordable digital photo service from the comfort of your own home.

  • Visa application form: You will receive the Finland Schengen Visa application form during the application process, and it should be completed accurately and truthfully.

  • Other supporting documents: Include any additional documents that may be relevant to your application, such as proof of civil status (e.g., marriage certificate) or employment status (e.g., employment contract).

If you are traveling with dependents, such as your spouse or children, provide the necessary documentation for them as well.

Please note that the documents need to be in English, Finnish, Swedish, or Greek. If your current documents are not in any of these languages, please have them translated.

Finland Schengen Visa requirements for children from Sri Lanka

Children from Sri Lanka must generally fulfill the same requirements as adult applicants. However, there are some additional considerations specific to them, such as:

  • Parental consent: If the child is traveling with only one parent or guardian, a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent is usually required. This letter should outline the details of the trip and provide consent for the child to travel with the accompanying parent or guardian.

  • Birth certificate: A copy of the child's birth certificate should be provided to verify their age and parentage.

  • Proof of relationship: Provide documents such as the child's birth certificate or other legal documents to establish the relationship between the child and accompanying parent(s) or guardian(s).

  • Passport: Children must have their own passport.

Finland Schengen Visa passport requirements

When applying for a Finland Schengen Visa, there are specific passport requirements that applicants need to fulfill, such as:

  1. Validity: It's recommended to have a passport with a validity of at least six months to avoid any potential issues.

  2. Issuance date: Your passport should have been issued within the last ten years. If your passport was issued more than ten years ago, you must renew it before applying for the visa.

  3. Blank pages: Your passport must have at least two blank pages for visa stamps. These pages should be adjacent to each other.

  4. Condition: Your passport should be in good condition, with no significant damage or tampering. If your passport is damaged or in poor condition, it's advisable to obtain a new passport before applying for the visa.

It's important to note that these passport requirements apply not only to the Finland Schengen Visa but also to all Schengen visas. Adhering to these requirements ensures that your passport meets the necessary criteria for travel within the Schengen Area.

Finland Schengen Visa photo requirements

When applying for a Finland Schengen Visa, you need to adhere to specific photo requirements. Here are the photo requirements for a Finland Schengen Visa application:

  • Size: The photo should be in standard passport size, typically 35x45mm or 2x2 inches.

  • Recent photo: The photo must be taken within the last six months to ensure an up-to-date representation of your appearance.

  • Background: The background of the photo should be plain and light-colored, preferably white or off-white. Avoid patterns, shadows, or any other objects in the background.

  • Facial expression: Maintain a neutral facial expression with both eyes open and looking directly at the camera. Keep your mouth closed and avoid smiling or frowning.

  • Head covering: Unless it is worn for religious or medical reasons, avoid wearing any headgear that obscures your facial features. Even in such cases, the head covering should not cast shadows on your face.

  • Glasses: If you usually wear glasses, you can keep them on for the photo. However, ensure there are no glares or reflections on the lenses, and your eyes are clearly visible.

  • Attire: Wear normal, everyday clothing for the photo. Avoid uniforms or attire that may give the impression of representing an organization or profession unless it is required for religious reasons.

It's crucial to follow these photo requirements precisely, as photos that do not meet the specifications may result in delays or rejection of your visa application.

If you are unsure about the photo requirements or want to ensure compliance, it's recommended to use our digital photo service for government-compliant, affordable photos!

Finland Husky Tour

My Finland Schengen Visa application in Sri Lanka was denied, what should I do?

If your Finland Schengen Visa application in Sri Lanka is denied, there are several steps you can take.

First, carefully read the rejection letter provided by the embassy or consulate. It should state the reasons for the denial. Understanding the specific grounds for rejection is essential in determining the appropriate course of action.

If you believe that the denial was unjust or that there may have been an error in the decision, you may consider consulting with an immigration lawyer. They can provide guidance, review your application, and advise you on the best course of action.

Depending on the reasons for the denial, you might have the option to reapply for the visa or appeal the decision. If you choose to reapply, make sure to address the issues mentioned in the rejection letter and provide any additional supporting documentation that may strengthen your case.

How to prepare for the Finland Schengen Visa interview in Sri Lanka

Preparing for the Finland Schengen Visa interview in Sri Lanka is essential to increase your chances of a successful outcome. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the interview:

  1. Gather all supporting documents: Organize and bring all the necessary supporting documents that demonstrate your purpose of travel, financial capability, ties to your home country, and intention to return. This may include flight reservations, hotel bookings, travel insurance, bank statements, employment letters, and other relevant documents.

  2. Practice answering common interview questions: Anticipate potential questions that the visa officer may ask, and practice your responses. Be prepared to explain your travel itinerary, the purpose of your visit to Finland, and how you intend to fund your trip. Also, be ready to discuss your ties to Sri Lanka and your plans to return after the visit.

Remember, each visa application is unique, and the interview experience with the Finnish immigration service may vary. By thoroughly preparing and presenting your case confidently, you increase your chances of a successful visa outcome.

Read more tips and info on preparing for the Schengen Visa interview in this blog.

Benefits of getting your Finland Schengen Visa with us

When applying with us online, the following benefits are included:

  • 100% government-compliant: Our team of iVisa Experts will review all information and ensure it’s 100% compliant with government requirements.

  • Unlimited access to our iVisa Experts: Our iVisa Experts will guide you through the entire application process and answer any questions you may have.

  • Simplified form: Visa applications can be confusing and tedious. At iVisa, we’ll make sure only to include relevant questions, making the application hassle-free.

  • Fill out at your own pace: Save your progress, make changes, and come back to it later whenever you need a break.

  • Step-by-step guide: Apply with us and receive an exclusive manual with all the tips you need to answer difficult sections and get your document without problems.

Need more info about the Finland Schengen Visa?

Our customer service agents are available via online chat and email at [email protected] to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the application process.

Do not hesitate to reach out and make your experience of applying for a Finland Schengen Visa as smooth as possible!

Disclaimer
  • iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://enterfinland.fi/eServices
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