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Country guide

Finland

Visa

Visa required

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time zones

UTC / GMT +2 (same time as South Africa)

Dialing code

+ 358

Best time to go

May – June. December is a popular time for winter activities, but rates are expensive. September and October have off-season rates.

Drinking water

Water in hotels and towns is safe to drink.

Travel tips

Comprehensive health insurance is recommended.

Visa guide

Entry requirements

See General Schengen Requirements.

In addition to the general requirements:

  • Visa Application Form - can be completed online at finlandvisa.fi, printed and signed. Alternatively you can download the form and complete in PDF format or by hand.
  • Document checklist to be printed, signed and completed.
  • A copy of the personal details page of the passport.
  • A motivational letter explaining why the applicant has chosen Finland (and other countries within the Schengen Member State territory, if applicable) as the destination. The letter should explain what made the applicant become interested in the country/ies of destination(s), and what the applicant is hoping to see or do there.
  • Proof of funds: NB: A private person may not be sponsored by another private person, the applicant must be able to support themselves. If a minor, then they may be sponsored by a parent/ guardian.

Visa requirements

Visas are required by South African passport holders.

Finland is a member of the Schengen Agreement.

  • If you intend to visit only Finland , you must apply at the Embassy of Finland / visa application centre.
  • If you intend to visit several Schengen countries, you must apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate that is your main destination / longest stay.
  • If you intend to visit several countries but are spending an equal number of days in each, you should apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate of the country of your first point of entry.

VFS GLOBAL

Completed visa forms and supporting documents must be submitted at VFS Global. Biometrics will also be taken (if applicable).

Tel: 012 425 3010
Web: visa.vfsglobal.com/zaf/en/fin/

Issuing authorities

The Embassy of Finland, Pretoria

628 Leyds Street, Muckleneuk
Tel: 012 486 6700
E-mail: Sanomat.PRE@gov.fi
Immigration Queries: Visa.PRE@gov.fi
Web: www.finland.org.za
Mon - Thurs: 08h00 to 16h15.
Fri: 08h00 to 13h45

Consular services by appointment only.

Visa processing time

Usually 15 days. Applications cannot be submitted more than 6 months in advance.

Visa validity

Up to 90 days over a period of 180 days.

Visa cost

Adults: EUR90
Children (6-12): EUR45
Children (under 6): Free

VFS service fee: EUR 20 (ZAR 384)

NOTE:

The applicable visa fees in ZAR depend on the current exchange rate, which can be changed without any notifications
The fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.

SA representative

Representation accredited from Stockholm, Sweden

Health / vaccinations

Compulsory: None
Recommended Travel Vaccines: Hepatitis B, Tetanus, Polio

Public holidays

2026: Jan 1, 6; Apr 3, 6; May 1, 14 May 1, 14; Jun 19-20; Oct 31; Dec 6, 24-26

Please check with relevant authorities for the latest updates before travel.

Last updated: 29 July 2026