How much money do I need for a Finland study permit?

EUR 800 per month for living costs. For a study period of at least one year, EUR 9,600 must be available when you apply. Tuition fees are separate and vary by institution - non-EU students pay EUR 6,000 to EUR 18,000 per year.

Can I work while studying in Finland?

Yes. Students from outside the EU can work up to 25 hours per week during term time without a separate work permit. During holidays you can work full time.

What is the TTOL work permit?

TTOL (Tyontekijan oleskelulupa) is Finland's standard residence permit for employed persons. It requires a binding employment contract from a Finnish employer confirming that terms meet the collective agreement for the sector.

Finland Visa from Nigeria 2026: Study Permit and Work Permit Guide

Finland has two publishable pathways for Nigerian applicants: a study residence permit and a work residence permit (TTOL). Both are issued by the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).

Study permit

Minimum funds: EUR 800/month. For studies of at least one year, EUR 9,600 must be available at the time of application. Tuition fees are additional — non-EU students pay EUR 6,000 to EUR 18,000 per year depending on institution and programme.

Requirements: Admission letter from a Finnish higher education institution, proof of funds, valid passport, health insurance where not covered by the institution.

Work rights while studying: Up to 25 hours per week during term time, full time during holidays, without a separate work permit.

Processing time: 1-3 months via the Enter Finland online portal.

Path to PR: After 4 years of continuous legal residence, you can apply for a permanent residence permit.

Primary source: https://migri.fi/residence-permit-application-for-studies

Work permit (TTOL)

Requirements: Binding employment contract from a Finnish employer. The employer must confirm terms meet the collective agreement for the sector. No minimum salary threshold is published as a universal figure — the collective agreement for your sector determines the applicable minimum.

Processing time: 2-4 months. The employer submits part of the application.

Primary source: https://migri.fi/en/residence-permit-for-an-employed-person

Evidence note

All figures sourced from Migri at https://migri.fi/en/home, retrieved October 2026. Verify current requirements before applying.