Finnish authorities have decided that travelers arriving in Finland after January 1, 2024 will need to carry 66 percent more cash than they currently carry to support their stay in the country.
The Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that the country has decided to raise the financial requirements for Schengen visa applications to 50 euros per day. At the same time, authorities are introducing a new requirement for applicants to fill out a sponsorship certification form, reports SchengenVisaInfo.com.
From January 1, 2024, travelers arriving in Finland for short stays must have available funds of at least €50 per day spent in Finland, instead of the previous €30.
The reason behind the increase is the increasing cost of living in Finland and around the world. Financial requirements apply only to those visiting her for periods of less than 90 days at a time.
This financial requirement, commonly known as the means of livelihood for Schengen visa applications, differs between EU member states. For example, Finland currently only has a requirement of 50 euros, while Belgium requires a minimum of 45 euros per day, increasing to a minimum of 95 euros per day if staying in a hotel or other similar accommodation.
Increasing the basic means of subsistence is a legal and common practice among Member States. This requirement applies not only to those applying for a Schengen visa, but also to those visiting on visa-free arrangements. Post-Brexit, this requirement was a real headache for many British people, especially those traveling to Spain.
New requirements have been introduced for completing the Sponsorship Certification Form
In addition to the increased financial requirements, applicants for a Finnish Schengen visa must provide proof of sponsorship and an accommodation form completed by their invitees.
Finland will simultaneously introduce a proof of sponsorship and/or accommodation form, allowing visa applicants to finance their visit using invitee funds..
This requirement applies only to those who are invited to travel to Finland, the costs of which are borne by the invitee. Similar requirements must be completed by Finnish citizens or by persons residing in Finland with a residence permit.
This certificate must be attached to the visa application by Schengen visa applicants along with other required documents for Schengen visa.