Finland Visa RequirementsFor Syria passport holders
Syrian passport holders require a Schengen visa to visit Finland. Finnish embassies process applications with strict documentation requirements for Syrian nationals.
Syria passport holders require a visa to enter Finland.
Apply at the Finnish Embassy in Ankara or Beirut, or through the Schengen state representing Finland in your country of residence. Finland uses an online appointment booking system; secure your slot as early as possible. VFS Global handles Finnish visa intake in select countries.
Finland is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Syria to Finland: What You Need to Know
Finland is a Schengen member state with a notable history of receiving Syrian asylum seekers. For Syrian nationals applying for a tourist or visit visa, the process goes through Finnish embassies, with the Finnish Embassy in Ankara and the Finnish Embassy in Beirut being the key application points for the region.
Finland accepted a significant number of Syrian refugees during the 2015 migration crisis, and the Syrian community in Finland is substantial. However, consular visa processing for Syrian tourist or visit applications is separate from asylum and refugee programs and involves a full security and background review.
The Schengen visa fee is EUR 90 (approximately USD 98). Processing times are a minimum of 15 calendar days, though security reviews for Syrian applicants can extend this to 45 to 60 days.
Practical Tips
Attach an invitation letter if visiting family or friends in Finland, as it significantly strengthens the application. Include a full travel and accommodation plan, proof of financial means, and valid travel insurance. Finnish consular officers are thorough, and an incomplete application will typically be returned without processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a visa required for Syrian passport holders to travel to Finland?
Yes, a Schengen visa is required. Finland is a Schengen member state and a short-stay visa (Type C) is needed for Syrian nationals.
Where can Syrian nationals apply for a Finnish Schengen visa?
The Finnish Embassy in Ankara and the Finnish Embassy in Beirut are the primary application points. Some countries use VFS Global for Finnish visa intake. Book an appointment online through the embassy website.
How long does Finnish Schengen visa processing take for Syrian applicants?
A minimum of 15 calendar days applies by Schengen rules, but security reviews for Syrian passport holders typically extend this to 45 to 60 days. Apply at least 10 weeks before your travel date.
What supporting documents strengthen a Finnish visa application for a Syrian national?
An invitation letter from a Finnish-resident relative or sponsor, combined with their proof of residency or citizenship, is a very strong document. Bank statements, confirmed accommodation, return flights, and travel insurance are all essential.