Finland, named the world’s happiest country for the eighth consecutive year in 2025, offers Bangladeshi nationals an unparalleled opportunity to study, work, or settle permanently with their families. Known for its top-tier education, thriving job market, and inclusive society, Finland is a beacon for those seeking a better future. This comprehensive guide details how Bangladeshis can navigate Finland student visas, work visas, visa fees, and pathways to permanent residence for international students and Bangladeshi workers. Whether you’re a student, professional, or family dreaming of a new life, here’s your roadmap to thriving in Finland.
Why Finland Immigration Matters for Bangladeshis
Finland’s appeal lies in its high quality of life, equitable policies, and welcoming immigration system. Key benefits for Bangladeshis include:
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World-Class Education: Affordable tuition with generous scholarships.
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Work Flexibility: Part-time jobs during studies and post-study work permits.
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Family Inclusion: Options to bring spouses, children, or parents.
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Permanent Residency Pathways: Accessible routes for students and workers without mandatory language skills.
In 2025, Finland’s immigration policies remain open, making it an ideal destination for Bangladeshi migrants.
Current Status of Finland Visas for Bangladeshis in 2025
As a Schengen Area member, Finland requires visas for Bangladeshi nationals staying beyond 90 days. Recent updates include:
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Streamlined Applications: Online student and work visa submissions via Migri.fi, with processing in 2–4 weeks.
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Extended Work Permits: Post-study work visas now valid for two years.
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Schengen Visa Access: Tourist visas processed through the Finnish Embassy in New Delhi or VFS Global.
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No Embassy in Dhaka: Applications handled in New Delhi or VFS centers in Bangladesh.
These changes reflect Finland’s commitment to attracting global talent, including from Bangladesh.
Types of Finland Visas for Bangladeshis
Bangladeshis can access several visa types to study, work, or settle in Finland:
1. Finland Student Visa
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Eligibility:
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Acceptance letter from a Finnish university or University of Applied Sciences (UAS).
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Proof of funds: €9,600 in the applicant’s bank account.
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Health insurance (€40,000 coverage minimum).
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Features:
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Permits part-time work (up to 30 hours/week).
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Valid for one year, renewable annually.
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Key Fields: IT, engineering, healthcare, business.
2. Finland Work Visa
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Eligibility:
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Job offer from a Finnish employer.
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Valid passport, health, and police clearances.
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Types:
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Post-Study Work Visa: Two-year permit post-graduation.
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Skilled Worker Visa: For professionals in demand sectors.
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Sectors: IT, nursing, construction, teaching.
3. Residence Permit for Family
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Eligibility:
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Sponsorship by a Bangladeshi resident in Finland.
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Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificate).
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Features:
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Allows spouses, children, or parents to join.
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Work rights for spouses.
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4. Schengen Tourist Visa
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Eligibility:
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Proof of travel purpose, financial stability, and return ticket.
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Duration: Up to 90 days within 180 days.
Finland Visa Fees for Bangladeshi Applicants
Visa fees are payable at the Finnish Embassy in New Delhi or VFS Global centers. Current fees (2025) are:
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Student Visa: €350 (approximately BDT 45,000).
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Work Visa: €500–€690 (approximately BDT 65,000–90,000).
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Family Residence Permit: €450–€520 (approximately BDT 58,500–67,600).
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Schengen Tourist Visa: €80 (approximately BDT 10,400).
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Additional Costs:
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VFS Global service fee: ₹1,950 (approximately BDT 2,800).
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Document attestation/translation: BDT 5,000–10,000.
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Payments are made via cash or demand draft to the Embassy of Finland, New Delhi.
How to Apply for a Finland Student Visa from Bangladesh
The student visa is a popular entry point for Bangladeshis aiming to study and settle. Here’s the process:
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Select a Program:
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Visit Studyinfo.fi to choose a bachelor’s or master’s program.
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Note deadlines (typically January for fall intake).
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Apply for Admission:
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Submit applications via Studyinfo.fi or university portals.
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Provide transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and optional IELTS/TOEFL/SAT/GRE scores.
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Prepare Documents:
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Valid passport (six months validity).
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University acceptance letter.
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Proof of funds: €9,600 (own account or sponsor’s, no familial relation required).
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Health insurance (€40,000 coverage).
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Police clearance certificate.
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Passport-sized photos.
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Submit Application:
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Apply online via migri.fi or through VFS Global in Dhaka/Chittagong.
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Book an appointment for biometrics.
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Attend Interview:
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Discuss study plans and financial stability.
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Submit fingerprints and photo.
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Track Decision:
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Processing takes 2–4 weeks; monitor status on migri.fi.
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Tips for Success
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Apply Early: Fall 2025 deadlines are January 8–22.
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Secure Sponsorship: Any individual can transfer €9,600 with a six-month bank statement.
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Verify Agents: Use VFS Global or trusted agencies like VISAThing.
Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students
Finland offers financial aid to offset tuition fees (€5,000–€15,000/year). Options include:
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Early Bird Discount: 15%–50% tuition reduction for bachelor’s students in year one.
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Merit-Based Scholarships: Up to 100% tuition coverage for master’s students based on CGPA, motivation letter, IELTS/GRE, or work/research experience.
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Living Cost Support: Some universities provide accommodation or travel stipends.
Apply during admission through your university’s portal.
Permanent Residence in Finland for International Students
International students, including Bangladeshis, can transition to permanent residency (PR) after completing their studies:
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Requirements:
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Reside legally in Finland for four continuous years (e.g., student visa + post-study work visa).
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Earn €1,600/month after taxes (approximately BDT 208,000).
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No mandatory Finnish language skills, though basic proficiency aids integration.
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Clean criminal record.
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Process:
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Apply via migri.fi after four years.
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Submit proof of income (e.g., payslips, tax returns), residency history, and identity documents.
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Processing takes 3–6 months; fee is €160–€200.
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Benefits:
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Access to social services, healthcare, and education.
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Work in any sector without restrictions.
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Sponsor family members (spouses, children, parents on visit visas).
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Pathway:
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Start with a student visa (1–4 years).
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Transition to a two-year post-study work visa.
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Secure a job to meet income requirements for PR.
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This pathway is flexible, with no requirement to work in your study field.
Permanent Residence in Finland for Bangladeshi Workers
Bangladeshi workers in Finland can also pursue permanent residency:
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Requirements:
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Four years of legal residence on a work visa (e.g., skilled worker or post-study permit).
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Minimum income of €1,600/month after taxes.
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No Finnish language requirement, but learning basics improves job prospects.
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Valid passport and clean criminal record.
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Process:
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Apply online via migri.fi.
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Provide employment contracts, payslips, tax records, and residency history.
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Fee: €160–€200; processing takes 3–6 months.
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Key Sectors: IT, healthcare, construction, education (no field-specific job needed for PR).
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Benefits:
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Long-term stability with access to Finland’s welfare system.
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Sponsor family members for residence or visit visas.
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Freedom to change employers without visa restrictions.
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Pathway:
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Enter on a work visa or post-study permit.
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Maintain employment for four years.
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Apply for PR once income and residency criteria are met.
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Workers benefit from Finland’s flexible PR rules, making it easier to settle compared to other European countries.
Post-Study Work Visa and Job Opportunities
After completing a degree, Bangladeshi students can apply for a post-study work visa:
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Duration: Two years, allowing full-time job search.
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Eligibility:
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Completed bachelor’s or master’s degree in Finland.
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Valid passport and degree certificate.
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Work Rights: Unlimited hours in any sector.
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Application: Via migri.fi; fee: €350–€500.
Job Prospects
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Sectors: IT, nursing, engineering, teaching.
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Part-Time Work During Studies: Up to 30 hours/week, earning €8,000–€10,000/year.
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Post-Graduation Salary: €2,000–€3,000/month, covering living costs (€400–€600/month).
This visa bridges the gap to permanent residency.
Challenges and Solutions for Bangladeshi Applicants
Common hurdles and solutions include:
Challenges
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No Embassy in Dhaka: Applications processed in New Delhi.
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Financial Proof: €9,600 requirement can be daunting.
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Study Gaps: Concerns about long educational breaks.
Solutions
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Use VFS Global: Submit applications in Dhaka or Chittagong.
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Secure Sponsors: Any individual can provide funds with a six-month bank statement.
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Address Gaps: 10–15 year study gaps are acceptable with strong applications.
Thorough preparation ensures a smooth process.
Comparing Finland Immigration with Canada Pilot Program 2025
Canada is an alternative for Bangladeshis. Here’s a comparison:
Canada Pilot Program Overview
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Types: Economic mobility pathways, sector-specific programs.
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Eligibility: IELTS, work experience, education.
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Application: Via IRCC; 6–12 months processing.
Finland vs. Canada
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Student Visa:
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Finland: No mandatory IELTS; €9,600 funds.
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Canada: IELTS required; $20,635 funds.
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Work Visa:
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Finland: Two-year post-study permit; no field restriction.
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Canada: Job-specific permits; PR potential.
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Permanent Residency:
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Finland: Four years, €1,600/month, no language requirement.
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Canada: Complex pathways; language mandatory.
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Recommendation
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Choose Finland for affordable education and easy PR.
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Opt for Canada for citizenship pathways.
Success Stories and Tips from Bangladeshi Expats
Real stories inspire:
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Nusrat’s Journey: A master’s student in Helsinki, Nusrat secured a full scholarship. She advises, “Craft a strong motivation letter.”
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Imran’s Success: A Bangladeshi worker in construction, Imran earned PR after four years. His tip? “Learn basic Finnish for better jobs.”
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Tips:
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Network via Studyinfo.fi events.
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Budget €400–€600/month for living.
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Use part-time work to fund studies.
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FAQs on Finland Immigration for Bangladeshis
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Is IELTS required for Finland student visas?
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Not mandatory, but some programs require IELTS/SAT/GRE.
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How costly is living in Finland?
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€400–€600/month for accommodation, food, transport.
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Can I work while studying?
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Yes, 30 hours/week part-time; full-time post-graduation.
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Can I bring my family?
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Yes, spouses/children on residence permits; parents on visit visas.
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Conclusion: Your Finnish Dream Awaits
Finland, the world’s happiest country, offers Bangladeshis a chance to study, work, and settle permanently. Start with a student visa, leverage scholarships, transition to a post-study work visa, and secure permanent residency after four years. With no mandatory language requirements and flexible PR rules, Finland is a top choice. Compare with Canada’s pilot programs, but Finland’s simplicity shines. Act now—visit Studyinfo.fi, prepare documents, and begin your journey to a brighter future!
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Call to Action: Check Studyinfo.fi, apply through VFS Global, and share this guide.
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Engage: Questions? Comment below!