A Finnish residence permit is granted for a fixed period. To keep living here on the same basis, you apply for an extended permit — in Finnish jatkolupa — before the current one runs out. Renewal is usually more straightforward than the first application, because your circumstances are already established. The mistakes that cause trouble are almost always about timing and documentation, and both are in your control.
1. Apply in good time — before your permit expires
The most important rule of renewal is simple: apply before your current permit's expiry date. You can submit an extension application while your permit is still valid — you don't need to wait until the last week. Applying on time is what preserves your right to keep living in Finland (and, in most cases, working) while Migri processes the decision.
2. How to apply — Enter Finland / OmaMigri
Most applicants apply online through Enter Finland (the OmaMigri e-service) at migri.fi. In outline:
- Fill in the extension application for your permit type (work, family, studies, and so on).
- Upload the requested attachments — proof that your grounds still apply.
- Pay the processing fee.
- Book and attend an appointment to prove your identity at a Migri service point (or a Finnish mission abroad).
After that, Migri may ask for more information. Respond by the date they give — missing or late documents are the most common reason a decision is delayed or refused.
3. What Migri checks on renewal
In broad terms, Migri looks at whether the basis for your original permit still exists and whether the conditions attached to it are still met. For example:
- Work-based permits — that the employment (and, where relevant, income) continues.
- Family ties — that the family relationship still exists and you live together as expected.
- Studies — that you are progressing in your programme.
The exact requirements, income levels and documents depend on your permit category and can change, so check the current checklist for your permit type on Migri's pages before you file.
4. Your right to stay while you wait
When you apply for an extension before your current permit expires, you generally may continue to live in Finland while the application is being processed, and — if your permit allowed work — usually continue working on the same terms. This is precisely why the timing in step 1 matters so much. Because the details are permit-specific, confirm your own situation with Migri or oikeusapu rather than assuming.
5. If your renewal is refused
A negative decision is not the end of the road. Read the reasoning (perustelut) to see exactly why Migri refused, and the appeal instructions (valitusosoitus), which tell you the court and the exact deadline for your case.
- Appeal — most Migri decisions can be appealed to the Administrative Court (hallinto-oikeus), in most cases within 30 days of notification UlkL 190 §.
- Or re-apply — if something material has changed or a document was missing, a fresh, well-documented application may be the better route.
Deadlines here are short and strict, so decide your route quickly and get help if you are unsure — see our companion guide, what to do when Migri rejects your application.
6. If your situation has changed
If the basis for your stay has changed — a new job, a new relationship, finishing your studies — you may need a different type of permit rather than a straight extension of the old one. Applying on the correct grounds from the start avoids a refusal on a technicality.