Permits and notifications of a foreign citizen

Before starting a business in Finland, foreign citizens must check matters such as residence permits and submit the necessary notifications to authorities.

In Finland, a foreign citizen can also establish a company, but the necessary permits and notifications depend on the person’s nationality and right of residence. Citizens of EU and EEA countries are free to work as entrepreneurs, but citizens of other countries must apply for a residence permit for an entrepreneur. The permit application is submitted to the Finnish Immigration Service, with a business plan and calculations attached.

In addition, a foreign citizen must report their business operations to the Tax Administration and possibly to the Trade Register if the operation so requires. Applying for a business ID and tax-related registrations are handled through the same channels as with Finnish entrepreneurs. If the entrepreneur operates in Finland but the company is established in another country, the situation often involves additional clarifications. A business advisor can help you find the right information in these steps.