A decision to remove or deport you from Finland is serious, but it is not always the final word — and the steps you take in the first days matter enormously. This guide explains, in plain language, what a removal decision means and what to do about it. Because the deadlines are short and the stakes are high, the honest answer to “what should I do?” is: get qualified legal help right now.
1. Read the decision and its appeal instructions immediately
Every removal decision comes with an appeal-instructions section (valitusosoitus) and a reasoning (perustelut). The valitusosoitus tells you which court handles your appeal and the exact deadline that applies to you. The reasoning tells you why the decision was made — which is what an appeal must address. Read both carefully, and note the date you received the decision.
2. Get legal help now — this is not a do-it-yourself situation
Removal cases move fast and the rules are complex. Public legal aid (oikeusapu) can cover an attorney’s costs if your income is low, and several NGOs advise people facing removal. Contact them the same day the decision arrives, not after the weekend. An attorney can tell you the two things you most need to know: your real deadline, and whether enforcement can happen before your appeal is decided.
3. Appeal to the Administrative Court
Most removal decisions can be appealed to the Administrative Court (hallinto-oikeus), in most cases within 30 days of being notified UlkL 190 §. The appeal explains why the decision is wrong — factually or legally — and attaches supporting evidence. If your valitusosoitus states a different deadline or court, follow the valitusosoitus.
4. Ask the court to suspend enforcement — a separate, urgent step
An appeal does not always automatically stop enforcement. In many cases you can ask the court to suspend enforcement (lykkäyspyyntö / täytäntöönpanon kielto) while your appeal is decided UlkL 154 §. Whether this is needed — and how urgent it is — depends on your decision type, which is exactly why step 2 (getting an attorney immediately) matters so much.
5. Gather evidence of your ties and any risks on return
Depending on your case, relevant evidence may include your ties to Finland (work, family, length of residence, studies) and any dangers you would face if returned. Bring everything you have to your legal adviser — they will know what matters for your specific grounds.
6. If the deadline is close or has passed
Even if the deadline is near or you think it has passed, still get advice immediately. Options can be narrower after a deadline, but a professional can tell you what is still possible — do not assume nothing can be done, and do not delay.