Dear international students,
I understand that this year there may be significant delays in renewing residence permits. There is a new residence card system this year and printing these has become a major bottleneck.
While we have no official news yet I have heard rumours that it may take up to 5 months to renew permits.
If you plan to stay in Finland this should cause you no problems, but current 1st year students need to take this into account when planning where they want to do your Pro Gradu. If you choose to do a Pro Gradu abroad BEFORE your permit is renewed then you will have to apply for a new permit (renewal applications are not allowed if you are not resident in Finland). This is more costly. If you plan your studies carefully however there is no absolute need to come back to Finland after your Pro Gradu.
Please see me if you have any questions.
Best wishes,
Lloyd