# Finland Introduces New Citizenship Rules to Obtain Finnish Citizenship by Increasing Residence Period From 5 to 8 Years

Source: https://www.savoryandpartners.com/news/finland-introduces-new-citizenship-rules · Published: 2024-10-16 · Updated: 2026-09-10

As of October 1, Finland has implemented new citizenship rules, extending the required residency to 8 years. Find out the new eligibility criteria.

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In a recently released update, Finland introduces new citizenship rules, effective from October 1. Under the new rules, applicants must have lived in the country for a minimum of eight years to be eligible for Finnish citizenship. This new criterion represents a shift from previous residency requirements, aiming to streamline the process and ensure long-term residency before citizenship is granted.

## **When Do Finland's New Citizenship Rules Apply?**

The rule applies to all applications submitted after October 1, meaning that any foreign nationals hoping to obtain Finnish [citizenship](https://www.savoryandpartners.com/programs/citizenship-by-investment/) will now need to meet the new residency threshold. The adjustment reflects Finland's broader approach to integrating long-term residents into its society.

However, for those who submitted their citizenship applications before the October deadline, there’s a transitional measure in place. These applications will be processed under the old Citizenship Act, providing a smoother transition for those who were already in the application process.