PASSPORT
On this page, you’ll find all information about passports and how to apply, quickly and easily!
Steps to apply for a passport
How to start applying for a passport?
The first step is to get a passport photo. You cannot complete the application online or in person without a passport photo.
Steps for applying for a passport
- Get a passport photo first. A passport photo is valid for 6 months, so you need to apply for your passport within six months of taking the photo. A photo studio will send your photo directly to the police system electronically. If you’re applying for a passport, start by visiting a photo studio. Find your nearest studio here.
- Fill out the passport application online. Once you have the electronic photo code, complete the application on the police website.. Enter the code you received by text message and pay for the application online. You can also apply at a service point; in that case, bring your photo code with you. Choose whether you want a regular passport, a fast passport, or an express passport.
- Online application requirements. You can usually complete the application entirely online if your fingerprints were taken for a previous passport (within the last 6 years) and your name is the same as on your previous passport. If these conditions are not met, you can still fill out the application online, but it will only be processed after you visit a service point for identification. The system will notify you during the application if an in-person visit is required.
Where can I get a passport photo?
You can get your passport photo up to 6 months before your passport expires!
When applying for a passport, you can choose an electronic or paper passport photo, though an electronic photo is recommended. Prices vary, with an average over €20 and the highest around €35. Here are some of the most affordable professional photo studios in different cities.
Check out tips for taking a passport photo!
You can also take your own passport photo, see the detailed instructions!
How to submit a passport application
After getting your passport photo, you can submit your application online or at a police service point. For both online and in-person applications, you need the photo code you receive via text during your photo session.
You can usually complete the application entirely online if your fingerprints were taken for a previous passport (within the last 6 years) and your name is the same as on your previous passport. If these conditions aren’t met, you can still fill out the application online, but it will only be processed after you visit a service point for identification. The system will notify you during the application if a visit is required.
Did you know? Applications submitted online are faster and cheaper!
Do I need to visit a police station
When you apply for a passport, you’ll find out whether you need to visit a police station. Generally, you must visit a police station for about every other passport renewal. If you need to be identified in person, you can go to any police station regardless of where you live. The exception is the Helsinki-Vantaa Airport police service point, which only serves urgent cases and primarily air travelers.
You can book an appointment for identification on the police website or by phone. You may also go to a police station without an appointment, but wait times can be long, especially during peak seasons.
At the police station, you must prove your identity with a valid passport or ID card. If you don’t have either, you can be identified by other means, which takes more time. Bring any expired passport or ID card if you have one. A driver’s license or other documents can help, but alone they are not sufficient.
If your online application requires a police station visit, bring:
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Your old passport or ID card
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Any attachments requested by the online service (e.g., proof of military service or exemption for young men, available from the local office)
If you apply entirely at the police station, bring:
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The photo code from the photo studio or a paper photo
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Your old/current passport or ID card
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Consent from all guardians if the applicant is under 18
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Proof of military status if you are 23–30 years old
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Any required documents if you wish to keep your old passport valid until the new one is issued
What happens after submitting the application
After you submit your application and it is being processed, your passport will be sent to the pick-up location you chose. Collect your passport from that location when you receive the pick-up notification on your phone. See below for more information on delivery times!
Different types of passports and how to apply for them
Ordinary passport
The standard passport most citizens obtain from the police.
Emergency passport
Issued in exceptional cases for a single trip.
Åland passport
An ordinary passport with the text “Åland” on the cover.
Issued to individuals with residence rights in Åland.
Applied for like a regular passport. You don’t need to mention Åland residence in the online application, but if applying at a police station outside Åland, it’s recommended to mention it.
Seafarer’s passport
A travel document used for work-related maritime travel.
Requires proof of seafaring activity, e.g., a seaman’s book.
A seafarer can hold both an ordinary passport and a seafarer’s passport simultaneously.
Alien’s passport
Issued by the Finnish Immigration Service as a travel document; not an ID card.
Granted in specific cases to foreigners with a residence permit in Finland.
Can also be issued temporarily.
See more on the Migri website.
Refugee travel document
Issued by the Finnish Immigration Service as a travel document; not an ID card.
Granted to foreigners with refugee status in Finland.
See more on the Migri website.
Diplomatic passport
Issued for diplomatic or international duties to high-ranking individuals.
May also be granted to those who have held significant state positions.
Facilitates international travel.
Typically applied for at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, in person.
Official (service) passport
Issued to employees of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and other personnel at foreign missions.
Can also be granted for international duties if not eligible for a diplomatic passport.
Usually applied for at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, in person.
What is a passport?
A passport is a travel document issued to Finnish citizens that also serves as an official form of identification.
Official form of identification
In Finland, official forms of identification are the passport and the ID card. A driver’s license can no longer be used to prove identity, as it only shows driving rights.
Did you know?
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Even a small child needs their own passport.
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The information in your passport must be up to date. After a name change, you cannot travel with a passport showing your old name.
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If you are no longer recognizable in the photo, you must renew your passport. This also applies to children.
Passport or ID card
A passport and an ID card re both forms of identification and travel documents. A passport can always be used for travel, whereas an ID card can only be used in certain countries, such as EU member states. Check the list of countries on the police website.
An ID card may also be issued without travel rights. Travel-restricted ID cards are given to minors and foreigners.
ID cards contain a chip with a citizen certificate. This certificate allows you to log in to public sector online services. A card reader and software are needed for authentication (see DVV website for more information).
ID cards are slightly more expensive than passports but more versatile and easier to carry, as they fit in a wallet. Both are valid for five years.
What can a passport be used for?
A passport is a document that allows you to prove your right to travel and verify your identity in various situations. Generally, you need a travel document to leave a country, and it may be checked at border crossings.
According to the Henley Passport Index in 2022, Finnish citizens can travel to 189 countries without a visa and to 28 countries with a visa. Finland ranks fourth globally and is the leading Nordic country. Rankings have varied between first and fourth place since 2000. The top-ranked passport is Japan, allowing visa-free travel to 193 countries, while Afghanistan ranks lowest, with visa-free access to only 27 countries.
https://www.henleyglobal.com/passport-index/ranking
How long is a passport valid
Why is a passport only valid for 5 years?
Previously, passports were issued for 10 years, but now the validity is only 5 years. A longer validity would reduce the reliability of identifying the passport holder from the photo and could compromise the security of the chip and the passport’s protective features.
The photo on the passport data page is used for visual identification and is also stored on the chip for automated facial recognition. The older the photo, the less reliable both visual and machine identification become.
Biometric data and other personal information on the passport chip must be securely protected against misuse. The chip’s security remains high because it is updated every few years. Extending the passport’s validity to 7–10 years could weaken the chip’s security before the passport expires. The same applies to the physical security features that prevent forgery of the passport book.
Passport features
It is important to ensure that any document used for identification is genuine. Official identity documents are passports and ID cards, both of which exist in multiple versions. The design and security features of passports and ID cards are regularly updated. The release of a new passport model does not affect the validity of older versions.
You can find comprehensive examples of Finnish and European travel and identity documents in the Council of Europe’s database of authentic identity and travel documents.
Passport size and format follow an international standard set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Each country chooses its own passport color. The EU recommends burgundy, and most EU countries follow this, except Croatia, which uses dark blue. Some aspiring EU countries have also adopted burgundy passports. Passport colors may reflect a country’s main religion or history. Many former or current socialist countries use red, some Muslim countries use green, and several African countries use black passports.
Read more: https://www.is.fi/matkat/art-2000005872685.html
For detailed passport features, see the police website!
Machine-readable passports
A machine-readable passport (MRP) has key information that can be read automatically, shown in two lines at the bottom of the data page, marked with letters, numbers, and <symbols. All current Finnish passports, except emergency passports, are machine-readable. Some passports also contain a chip with passport data.
Types of Finnish passports and their features:
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Ordinary passport – machine-readable, with chip
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Åland passport – machine-readable, with chip
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Temporary passport – machine-readable, no chip
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Seafarer’s passport – machine-readable, no chip
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Emergency passport – not machine-readable, no chip
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Alien’s passport – machine-readable, with chip
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Temporary alien’s passport – machine-readable, no chip
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Refugee travel document – machine-readable, with chip
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Official (service) passport – machine-readable, with chip
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Diplomatic passport – machine-readable, with chip
Fast & Express Passport
Fast Passport
A passport can be issued more quickly for an additional fee. A fast passport can be collected within two business days if you submit your application by 9:00 AM on a business day and there is availability in the same day’s fast passport quota.
Express Passport (Express-passi)
An express passport is a regular passport delivered at express speed.
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If you submit your application online by 9:00 AM and there is space in the same day’s express quota, you can collect the passport the same afternoon at 4:00 PM.
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If you apply at a service point or your online application requires in-person identification, the deadline is 11:00 AM. Applications submitted later or with availability in the next day’s quota can be collected the following business day at 4:00 PM. Applications are processed only on business days.
You can apply for an express passport at any service point, but the finished passport is delivered only to the following pick-up locations:
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Matkahuolto, Kamppi Terminal, Narinkka 1, Helsinki
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R-kioski, Terminal 2, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport
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Verkkokauppa.com 24h kiosk, Tyynenmerenkatu 11, Helsinki
Delivery & Collection
Passport delivery times depend on demand.
Your passport will be sent to the pick-up location you selected, and you can collect it once you receive the arrival notification.
Where can a passport be delivered
A passport can be delivered to a Matkahuolto location or one of its subcontractors, such as an R-kioski. The passport will be kept at the pick-up point for 14 days. To collect it, you must present the collection code and a valid ID. An ID that expired within the past year is also acceptable. Remember, a driver’s license is not considered an official ID!
You can authorize someone else to collect your passport using the police authorization form. The authorized person must present their own ID when collecting the passport.
If you fail to pick up the passport on time, it will be sent to a police station.
How quickly can a passport be obtained
Regular passport
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8–12 business days
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Delivery may take longer during busy periods
Fast passport (Pikapassi)
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Up to 4 business days (the day of application is not counted)
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Daily quota applies for fast processing
Express passport (Express-passi)
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0–1 business days
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Delivered only to Matkahuolto Kamppi terminal, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport R-kioski, and Verkkokauppa.com kiosk in Jätkäsaari
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Daily quota applies for express processing
If fast quotas are full and you need a passport urgently, the police can issue a temporary passport for a specific reason, valid for up to 12 months. Temporary passports are not available in all cases and must be collected at a police station. They cannot be used to travel to all countries.
Do I need my old passport when collecting a new one
When collecting your passport, you must prove your identity by presenting a passport or ID card. An expired passport is acceptable if it expired within the past year. A driver’s license is not sufficient. You must also show the collection code, as the passport will not be released without it.
You can authorize another person to collect your passport, but they must present a valid ID.
You will receive a notification when your passport is ready for collection. The notification can be sent via text message, email, or letter, and it includes the collection code and the pick-up location. It’s recommended to have the notification both as a text and email for safety.
Can someone else collect my passport on my behalf
You can authorize another person to collect your passport. The authorized person must have a signed authorization form, the collection code, and a valid Finnish passport or ID card issued by authorities. A driver’s license cannot be used for identification when collecting a passport.
You can download the authorization form from the police website.
What type of photo do I need?
The passport photo you attach to your application must be no more than 6 months old. You can apply for an ID card at the same time, as the same photo can be used for both.
What is a digital passport photo
A digital passport photo is a photo that is uploaded directly from the photography studio to the authority’s photo server, where the police can access it. The applicant receives only a photo code, which is attached to the passport application. You do not need a paper passport photo when applying; the digital photo alone is sufficient.
For example, some studios send the photo directly to the police, and you receive the photo code immediately via text message. You can then submit your application online or at a service point. Keep the photo code safe, as it is used to retrieve your photo from the police system.
Do I need a paper passport photo
When applying for a passport, a digital photo alone is sufficient. You can also use a paper photo, but then you cannot submit the application online. The police do not recommend using a paper photo, as it must be scanned into a digital format, which takes time and may reduce image quality. A paper photo cannot be used for the slightly cheaper online application.
You may need a paper photo for a driver’s license, moped license, or motorcycle license. A digital photo can be used for these only if you have already applied for a passport or ID card with the same photo and it has been approved. A digital photo code or emailed photo is not accepted for driver’s licenses. After your passport or ID card is issued, the photo is automatically transferred to Traficom. Note that the photo must be less than 6 months old, so an older passport photo cannot be used.
Most visas also require a paper photo. Visa photo size and quality requirements vary, so check the requirements before obtaining a visa photo.
How many passport photos do I need
One digital passport photo or one paper passport photo is sufficient for a passport application. The photo must be no more than six months old. If you choose a paper photo, studios usually provide multiple copies.
What is a photo code
A photo code is a 7-character code made up of letters and numbers. You need this code when submitting your application, both online and at a service point. It ensures the correct photo is linked to your passport. You receive the photo code via text message when your photo is taken.
Can a passport photo be used for a driver’s license
For a moped, car, or motorcycle license, you need two paper photos.
The police’s digital photo code cannot be used for driver’s license applications.
A digital passport photo can only be used if you have already applied for a passport or ID card with the same photo. A digital photo code or emailed photo is not accepted for driver’s licenses. Once the passport or ID card is issued, the photo is automatically transferred to Traficom.
Note: The photo must be less than 6 months old, so an older passport photo cannot be used.
Instructions for getting your photo taken
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For passport photos, follow these basic rules:
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The entire face must be visible; no accessories or hair may cover the face.
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Eyes must be clearly visible, and the expression should be neutral.
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The mouth must be closed (some leniency is allowed for infants).
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Glasses must not cover the eyes or facial features; it’s recommended to remove them to avoid shadows, reflections, or distortions. Dark glasses or eye patches are only allowed for medical reasons.
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Headwear is allowed only for religious or medical reasons.
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Wigs are permitted only if worn daily for medical reasons and must follow the same rules as natural hair—they cannot cover the face.
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Jewelry and makeup are allowed as long as they do not obscure your facial features. For example, powder can be used to reduce shine.
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Take your own passport photo
Nowadays, it’s possible to take your own passport photo. However, the photo must meet strict official requirements.
According to the police, the best lens is 90–130 mm, though a 50 mm lens can also produce a usable photo. Using a phone camera is generally not recommended, as it may cause distortions.
You can use natural daylight, ideally against a plain, light-colored wall. Sit on a bench about half a meter from the wall.
Photos taken by non-professionals are often rejected for poor quality, so the police recommend using a professional photographer.
The digital photo must be exactly 500 × 653 pixels, in JPEG format, with a maximum file size of 250 KB. No alterations are allowed; even minor retouching is prohibited.
The photo must be sharp across the entire face, with no distortions.
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The distance from the top of the head to the chin must be 445–500 px (32–36 mm).
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Space above the head: 56–84 px (4–6 mm).
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Space below the chin: 96–124 px (7–9 mm).
The face and gaze must be directly facing the camera, and shoulders should be level with the face. The background must be plain, light, and even.
For more detailed instructions, see the police website.
What to do if your passport is lost?
Things can happen while traveling.
Keeping your passport safe and intact is very important to prevent misuse.
What to do if your passport is stolen
If your passport is stolen, it is important to report it immediately to prevent misuse. You can report a stolen passport using the online crime report form or by visiting a police station. While abroad, you can make the report at a Finnish embassy or consulate. After reporting, you can apply for a new passport as usual.
The report can be made online or by visiting a police station. You can submit an online report through the police website..
Note: A reported stolen passport cannot be used and cannot be reactivated, even if it is later found.
What to do if your passport is lost
If your passport is lost, immediately report the loss to the police to prevent misuse. You can make the report using an electronic crime report form or by visiting a police station. While abroad, you can report it to a Finnish embassy or consulate. After reporting, you can apply for a new passport as usual.
The report can be made electronically or in person at a police station. You can submit an electronic report on the police website..
NOTE! You cannot use a passport that has been reported lost, and it cannot be reactivated later, even if it is found.
What to do if your passport gets damaged
If your passport is damaged, contact a police service point or, if abroad, the Finnish embassy. It is not advisable to travel with a damaged or otherwise spoiled passport, as your journey may be stopped at border control.
How do you apply for a passport if your previous one has expired
If your passport has expired, you can apply for a new one as usual. First, have your passport photo taken, then submit your application either on the police website or at a police station. When you fill out the application, you will be informed whether a visit to the police station is required. If you did not provide fingerprints for your previous passport, or if more than six years have passed since your last application, you will be asked to verify your identity at the station. However, you can complete the application online in advance. Please note that the application will only be processed after you have verified your identity.
What if I don’t have a passport at all
Even if you don’t have a passport or your previous passport expired a long time ago, you can apply as usual. First, get a passport photo, then submit your application either online on the police website or at a police station. If you are applying for your first passport, you must always visit the police station to verify your identity after submitting the application. The police will only process your application once you have been identified at the station and provided your fingerprints.
Frequently Asked Questions!
Here you can find the most frequently asked questions about passports!
How quickly can a passport be obtained
How long does it take for a passport to arrive?
And what is an express or fast-track passport?
How much does a passport cost
How much does a passport cost?
A passport costs €44 when applied for online. If the application is made in person at a police station, the passport costs €50. The price is not affected by whether you need to visit the police station for identity verification. Passports are slightly cheaper than ID cards.
If you order a passport with expedited processing, it costs €63 for an online application and €69 for an in-person application. Express delivery costs €83 online and €89 in person. A temporary passport costs €85.
Passports are cheaper for those who participated in Finland’s wars.
Check the police fee table for exact prices!
If you apply for an ID card at the same time as a passport, the ID card is slightly cheaper.
Applying for a Passport
What is an electronic passport application and where can it be done?
An electronic passport application is completed entirely online. To apply, you need a digitally submitted passport photo and a photo code provided by the photography studio. You can fill out the application on the police website: https://poliisi.fi/en/passport
What is a digital passport photo?
A digital passport photo is sent directly from the photography studio to the police. You will receive a photo code at the studio, which you enter in the system when submitting your application. The digital photo can also be used at the police service point. Remember to bring your photo code!
Do I need a paper passport photo?
No, a digitally submitted photo is sufficient for applying for a passport or ID card.
What is a passport photo code?
When you have your passport photo taken, the studio sends your photo directly to the police system and provides you with a code. Entering this code ensures your application is linked to the correct photo in the system.
Can the passport photo code be used at a police station?
Yes! Remember to bring the photo code when visiting the service point.
Where can a digital passport photo be used?
It can be used for passport and ID card applications, residence permit applications, security guard, bouncer, and protection guard cards, as well as firearm licenses.
How much does it cost to apply for a passport or ID card?
Check the current fee list on the police website: https://poliisi.fi/en/payment-table
How quickly will I receive my passport?
Standard processing takes 5–8 business days. During busy periods, it may take longer.
With fast-track service, you can receive your passport within 3 business days, and with express delivery, the same or next day.
What is a fast passport?
A fast-track passport is a regular passport issued on an accelerated schedule for an additional fee. Delivery takes up to 3 business days.
How long is a passport photo valid?
Both paper and digital passport photos are valid for 6 months.
How long is a new passport valid?
A standard passport is valid for 5 years.
Do children or infants need a passport?
Yes!
Which passport applications can be done online?
You can apply online for a regular passport, an Åland Islands passport, and a seafarer’s passport (the latter requires a police station visit).
What do I need for a passport application?
You need one passport photo, either paper or digitally submitted. Keep your digital photo code safe!
Do I need to visit a police station if I apply online?
Generally, no. You can usually complete the application online if fingerprints were taken for a previous passport (within the last 6 years) and your name hasn’t changed. If not, the online application will be processed only after you visit a police service point for identity verification. The system will indicate if a visit is required.
How is the new passport/ID card delivered?
The passport/ID card is delivered to your chosen Matkahuolto or subcontractor location. You will receive a notification with a tracking code needed for pickup.
When picking up, you must verify your identity with a valid passport or ID card. Recently expired documents may also be accepted unless otherwise stated.
What if my personal information has changed?
A passport or ID card with outdated information cannot be used for identity verification or travel. Apply for a new document as soon as the change is recorded in the population information system.
Do I need a passport to travel to Russia?
Yes, and you also need a visa for your trip
Do I need a passport for Europe?
Usually yes. The police website lists countries where an ID card can be used instead of a passport. Always check your destination’s travel requirements, including passport validity and other regulations.
Passport Photo
How quickly can I get a passport photo?
Taking a passport photo only takes a few minutes! You will receive a paper photo immediately, and a digital photo is sent directly to the police, with the photo code sent to you via SMS right away.
What is a passport photo code?
When you have your passport photo taken, the studio sends the image directly to the police system and provides you with a code. Entering this code in your application links it to the correct photo in the system.
Can I wear glasses in my passport photo?
Yes, as long as they do not reflect light, cast shadows, or distort your face. It is recommended to remove glasses during the photo if possible.
Can I wear a headscarf or head covering?
Yes, but only for religious or health reasons. Even then, the face must not be covered, and no shadows should be cast on the face.
How should the passport photo look?
The general rule is that the full face must be visible, accessories or hair should not cover the face, eyes must be clearly visible, and the expression should be neutral.
Can I wear jewelry or makeup in the photo?
Yes, as long as it does not affect your recognizability. Tip: Powder can help reduce shine!
I lost my passport photo code
If you lose your passport photo code, you can get a new one by visiting the photography studio where the photo was taken. You will need to remember the date of your visit and provide your first name.
Can someone else collect my photo code?
No. The photo code can only be given to the person in the photo or their guardian.
Identity Verification at the Police Station
Booking an Appointment
You can book an appointment online or by calling the advice service (open weekdays 8:00–16:15).
Book appointments for the whole family at once. If your entire family is applying for the same document, you can include everyone’s personal details in a single booking. The system will then try to schedule consecutive appointments at the same service counter.
You can also book multiple consecutive appointments for yourself if you have several matters related to the same service. A standard-length appointment is intended for only one permit-related matter.
Passport Validity
How long is a passport valid?
A passport is valid for 5 years.
Can an expired passport be used?
Generally, no. You cannot travel or use an expired passport to prove your identity.
However, an expired passport or ID card is accepted when picking up a new passport if it expired within the past year. A passport expired more than a year ago can no longer be used for identification. A recently expired passport can also be used to prove identity when voting in elections.
Passport for Minors
Does a baby need a passport?
Even very young children need their own passport. You can fill out a minor’s application online just like for an adult, but in many cases, the child must visit a police station for identity verification.
Do you need to visit the police station with the child?
Children under 12 do not provide fingerprints. Every passport applicant must visit the police station for identity verification if fingerprints have not been taken previously. So, a verification visit is always required if the applicant was under 12 when applying for their previous passport. Children’s identity verification is handled very carefully, as their facial features change quickly.
Visiting the police station
Does the child need to be present?
Yes, the minor must always be present at the police station, even if they are a baby.
Does an adult need to be present?
If the applicant is under 15, at least one guardian must be present. A minor aged 15 or older can visit the police station alone if they have written consent from their guardians and their identity can be verified.
Parental consent
All guardians must consent to a minor’s passport application.
How is consent given?
Guardians can give consent online or submit it directly at the police station. The guardian submitting the application provides consent within the application. Other guardians can respond to a consent request by logging into the police online service.
If the application is made at the service point, present guardians can give consent verbally. Guardians not present must provide written consent.
What if one guardian does not give consent?
A passport can be issued without one guardian’s consent only for a special reason, e.g., if consent cannot be obtained due to travel, illness, or similar circumstances.
A minor may be issued a passport without parental consent if withholding the passport would clearly be against the child’s best interests.
Download the consent form template here: Consent Form
Applying for a Passport Abroad
If you are a Finnish citizen living abroad, you can submit a regular electronic application through the police online service. You cannot use a digital passport photo from a foreign photography studio, but you can upload the photo you receive from the studio to the police system yourself. If your application requires an identity verification visit, it must be done at a police station in Finland. If you submit an electronic application, the passport can only be collected in Finland.
A passport can also be applied for at Finnish foreign missions. The application requires a personal visit, booked in advance. You will need a paper passport photo, an identity document, and possibly other documents requested separately. Delivery time for the passport ranges from one week to several weeks. You can obtain a fast-track passport abroad, which is 2–3 days faster than a regular passport. Express passports are not available at foreign missions. The passport fee is higher than for a passport obtained from the police in Finland.
Traveling in the Nordic Countries
Do I need a passport for Sweden?
Citizens of the Nordic countries (Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Iceland) are exempt from passport requirements, meaning they can travel within the Nordic region without a travel document. However, identity must be verifiable if needed.
Can a driver’s license be used for identification in the Nordic countries?
Yes! If a Nordic citizen travels without a passport or ID card, it is recommended to carry another official document, such as a driver’s license.
For minors traveling with a group, a Kela card is also sufficient to verify identity.
Traveling Within the Schengen Area
When traveling from one country to another within the Schengen Area, your travel document is generally not checked by authorities. However, you must carry a valid travel document accepted in each member country.
For more information about traveling within the Schengen Area, visit the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs website.
Schengen countries include: Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Iceland, Italy, Austria, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Portugal, Poland, France, Sweden, Germany, Slovakia, Slovenia, Finland, Switzerland, Denmark, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Estonia.
Obstacles to Obtaining a Passport & Passport Cancellation
Can a criminal conviction prevent obtaining a passport?
Finnish law specifically defines obstacles to receiving a passport. These include suspicion of or an outstanding warrant for a crime punishable by more than one year of imprisonment, ongoing investigation or prosecution for such a crime, or an unserved unconditional prison sentence.
Conditional imprisonment does not prevent the issuance of a passport.
How does military service affect passport issuance?
If you are a conscript over 28 years old, a passport can be denied until the end of the year you turn 30 unless you can prove that military service does not prevent the issuance of a passport.
For what reasons can a passport be canceled?
The law defines conditions for canceling a passport, such as loss of Finnish citizenship, the holder’s own request, or a lost passport.
A passport can also be temporarily revoked due to travel restrictions or an exit ban.
Current Updates
Latest News on Passports and How to Apply
High Demand for Passports
The police passport, ID card, and advisory services are experiencing high demand!
Sweden Begins Identity Document Checks
All travelers over 18 years old from Finland and Åland to Sweden must present a valid identity document.
Up to 550 passports have been sent to the wrong recipients.
The error in passport distribution was caused by a malfunction in the postal sorting machine.
Finnish Police Board: Error in Passport Distribution
Hanna Piipponen, Head of Permit Administration at the Finnish Police Board, reports that there was a malfunction in passport distribution on Monday.
A Brief History of the Passport
Before the early 20th century, passports did not include photographs; people’s features were described verbally.
Passports have not always looked similar across different countries—international standardization is only a few decades old. The passport has a long history.
A passport-like document is mentioned in the Old Testament, in the Book of Nehemiah, written around 430 BCE. Nehemiah received a letter from the king to ensure safe travel to the Kingdom of Judah.
Around 200 BCE, the Han Dynasty implemented a document to restrict movement between regions of the empire. It included information about age, height, and other physical characteristics. Border checkpoints required this document for crossing.
In the Islamic world during the Middle Ages, a document called a “bara” was used, essentially serving as a receipt for taxes paid. Traveling between regions required showing the bara at the border.
In Europe, King Henry V’s administration in 1414 in Britain introduced travel permits, primarily for foreign merchants. The law passed by Parliament is considered the first written mention of a passport in modern history. A few years later, France began issuing certificates to merchants.
The origin of the word “passport” is debated. Some believe “port” refers to British maritime ports, while others see a French origin, referring to a city gate.
Initially, passports were issued mainly to foreigners, not citizens. In effect, early passports were like visas. With the Industrial Revolution, people moved more, creating a need to control migration. By the late 19th century, migration was so uncontrolled that passport systems temporarily broke down, and countries like France relaxed passport requirements.
Before the early 20th century, passports described people verbally rather than using photographs, noting features like eye and nose size or face shape. This practice faced criticism as degrading. As photography became widespread, written descriptions were replaced by photos. Early photo requirements were lax—people could choose almost any picture, even group photos. The approach of World War I and fears of espionage reinforced the need for physical identification in passports.
After the war, countries became more cautious and territorial, and passports became essential for international travel. In the 1920s, passports were standardized under the League of Nations. After World War II, standardization moved to the International Civil Aviation Organization, which still manages it today.
In recent decades, passports have evolved significantly, including more information. Photo requirements have become stricter, and in the late 1990s, the first biometric passports were introduced. Passports are now more secure and harder to forge.
The passport has thus evolved from a ruler-issued travel permit for foreigners into a citizen identity document, playing a vital role in the information society. Some countries even sell passports to attract investment.