Finland is poised to implement tougher requirements for obtaining and keeping citizenship following a government proposal presented to Parliament on Thursday.
The suggested changes would elevate the standards for applicants by strengthening stipulations related to identity validation, financial independence, and criminal background. The anticipated legislation is set to take effect on 1 October 2025.
Interior Minister Mari Rantanen stated that the modifications aim to ensure that Finnish citizenship embodies integration and adherence to Finnish laws.
“Finnish citizenship is not automatically granted. It necessitates successful integration, employment, and conformity with the laws of Finnish society,” she expressed in a statement.
According to the revised Citizenship Act, applicants must demonstrate adequate financial means beyond unemployment benefits or social welfare. This clause seeks to connect economic independence more directly to integration into Finnish society.
Authorities will also intensify verification of identity. Individuals reasonably presumed to hold a national passport will be mandated to present it. This adjustment tackles scenarios where identity remains ambiguous due to insufficient documentation.
The government will further modify the integrity standards. Offenses will play a more critical role in assessing eligibility for citizenship. Concerns regarding national security will carry more weight during application evaluations.
The new proposition follows a decision made in July 2024 by Parliament to extend the required residency period from five to eight years.
Moreover, the government aims to widen the conditions under which Finnish citizenship can be annulled. Individuals who have submitted false information during the application process or committed offenses against Finland’s essential interests might face more frequent citizenship revocation.
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A significant alteration would reduce the sentencing threshold for revocation in dual citizenship situations involving terrorism, treason, or high treason. Under the proposed legislation, a conviction of at least two years would suffice. The current threshold stands at five years.
This legislative package originates from the government program unveiled by the ruling parties on 16 June 2023, which committed to a firmer approach on immigration, residency, and citizenship.
Protests occurred in Helsinki during June and August 2023 opposing the government’s immigration stance. Despite the demonstrations, the coalition, headed by the National Coalition Party (Kansallinen Kokoomus), has proceeded with its agenda.
The intended reforms are part of a wider initiative to align citizenship regulations with national security goals and public expectations.