In a recent decision by Finnish authorities, travellers to Finland will need to have significantly more funds at their disposal starting from January 1, 2024. The minimum daily financial requirement for staying in Finland has been increased from €30 to €50 per day. This decision comes as a response to the rising living costs, both within Finland and globally.
According to an official statement from Finland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this adjustment in the financial requirement will apply to individuals applying for Schengen visas for short stays of less than 90 days. As of the beginning of the new year, anyone planning to visit Finland under these circumstances will be required to demonstrate access to at least €50 per day to support their stay.
The increase in the financial requirement for Schengen visa applications is a practice that varies among European Union member states. For instance, while Finland now requires €50 per day, Belgium has set its minimum daily amount at €45, which increases to a minimum of €95 per day for those opting for hotel or similar accommodations. This financial requirement is not limited to Schengen visa applicants but also applies to those visiting under visa-free arrangements. Following Brexit, this requirement became a notable concern for many British travellers, especially those heading to Spain.
In addition to the financial adjustment, there is a new requirement for Schengen visa applicants wishing to visit Finland. They must now complete a proof of sponsorship and/or accommodation form, which should be filled out by the individual inviting them to Finland.
This new requirement aims to ensure that travellers have the means to finance their visit through the funds of the inviting party. The sponsorship and/or accommodation form must be completed by a Finnish citizen or a person residing in Finland with a valid residence permit. Subsequently, the completed form must be included with the visa application, along with other necessary documents for a Schengen visa.
In summary, Finland's decision to increase the daily financial requirement to €50 per day for Schengen visa applicants reflects the country's response to rising living costs. This change, effective from January 1, 2024, will impact travellers visiting Finland for short stays. Additionally, the introduction of the proof of sponsorship and/or accommodation form adds another layer to the visa application process, ensuring that visitors have adequate financial support during their stay.
Certainly, here are the pros and cons of Finland's decision to increase the minimum daily financial requirement for Schengen visas to €50 per day and introduce a proof of sponsorship form:
Pros:
According to an official statement from Finland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this adjustment in the financial requirement will apply to individuals applying for Schengen visas for short stays of less than 90 days. As of the beginning of the new year, anyone planning to visit Finland under these circumstances will be required to demonstrate access to at least €50 per day to support their stay.
The increase in the financial requirement for Schengen visa applications is a practice that varies among European Union member states. For instance, while Finland now requires €50 per day, Belgium has set its minimum daily amount at €45, which increases to a minimum of €95 per day for those opting for hotel or similar accommodations. This financial requirement is not limited to Schengen visa applicants but also applies to those visiting under visa-free arrangements. Following Brexit, this requirement became a notable concern for many British travellers, especially those heading to Spain.
In addition to the financial adjustment, there is a new requirement for Schengen visa applicants wishing to visit Finland. They must now complete a proof of sponsorship and/or accommodation form, which should be filled out by the individual inviting them to Finland.
This new requirement aims to ensure that travellers have the means to finance their visit through the funds of the inviting party. The sponsorship and/or accommodation form must be completed by a Finnish citizen or a person residing in Finland with a valid residence permit. Subsequently, the completed form must be included with the visa application, along with other necessary documents for a Schengen visa.
In summary, Finland's decision to increase the daily financial requirement to €50 per day for Schengen visa applicants reflects the country's response to rising living costs. This change, effective from January 1, 2024, will impact travellers visiting Finland for short stays. Additionally, the introduction of the proof of sponsorship and/or accommodation form adds another layer to the visa application process, ensuring that visitors have adequate financial support during their stay.
Certainly, here are the pros and cons of Finland's decision to increase the minimum daily financial requirement for Schengen visas to €50 per day and introduce a proof of sponsorship form:
Pros:
- Financial Sustainability: The increase in the daily financial requirement to €50 per day ensures that travellers have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Finland. This helps prevent situations where visitors may run out of money and become a burden on social services.
- Reflects Living Costs: The adjustment takes into account the rising living costs in Finland and globally, ensuring that travellers can afford basic necessities such as accommodation, food, and transportation during their stay.
- Uniformity in Schengen Area: It aligns Finland's financial requirement with the Schengen Agreement's guidelines, promoting consistency and fairness among Schengen member states regarding visa applications.
- Less Strain on Public Resources: By requiring travellers to have adequate funds, Finland reduces the potential strain on its own public resources, as it may need to provide assistance to those who run out of money during their visit.
- Improved Documentation: The introduction of the proof of sponsorship form adds transparency to the visa application process, making it clear that travellers have financial support from a Finnish citizen or resident.
- Financial Barrier: The increased financial requirement may serve as a barrier for some travellers, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds, making it more challenging for them to visit Finland for tourism or other short stays.
- Impact on Tourism: Higher financial requirements could deter tourists from choosing Finland as a travel destination, potentially affecting the country's tourism industry.
- Administrative Burden: The introduction of the proof of sponsorship form adds an extra layer of documentation and administrative work for both travellers and inviting parties, potentially causing delays or complications in the visa application process.
- Exclusion of Certain Visitors: Some travellers, such as students or individuals attending conferences or events in Finland, may face challenges in meeting the increased financial requirements, limiting their ability to participate in educational or professional opportunities in the country.
- Potential for Misuse: There is a possibility that individuals may attempt to falsify proof of sponsorship documents, leading to fraudulent visa applications and potential misuse of the system.
extra hassel fr sure...
This change ensures travelers are prepared and won’t face financial hardships. It might seem strict, but it’s for a good reason—everyone deserves a safe and comfortable stay! 
