Trevor KucheranLast Updated
Finland has now reopened for tourism and has recently updated the countries that are permitted to visit.
The Finland Government Website States:
“Restrictions on entry can be waived in traffic between Finland and countries where the incidence of coronavirus has been at most 8 new cases per 100,000 persons during the previous 14 days.”
Update Sept 14:
Finland is now raising the new case rate criteria from 8 cases per 100,000 persons to 25 as of September 19th, allowing many more EU nations to visit. The Ministry of the Interior stated:
“From September 19, entry restrictions can be lifted in traffic between Finland and EU and Schengen countries where the incidence of new cases does not exceed 25 new cases per 100,000 persons during the previous 14 days. Until now, the limit value has been 8-10,”
Below we have compiled a guide with everything you need to know about travelling to Finland, which countries are allowed to visit, all entry requirements, and any other rules you need to know about.
Which countries are allowed to travel to Finland?
Below you will find 2 lists. One with the EU countries that can visit Finland, and one of third-party countries outside the EU that can now visit Finland.
Here is a list of EU/Schengen nations that can currently visit Finland with no restrictions:
(There is no mandatory quarantine or testing for travelers from these countries on arrival in Finland.)
- the Vatican
Third-Party Countries Allowed into Finland
A list of ‘approved safe’ countries was suggested by the EU to all EU members on June 30, 2020. The suggestion outlined that each EU member should consider allowing residents of those nations permission to enter for tourism starting on July 1.
The third-party nations now allowed entry into Finland without restrictions are:
- South Korea
- Rwanda
- Japan
- Thailand
- Tunisia
- Uruguay
- New Zealand
Testing to Replace Quarantines
On November 23, 2020 – leisure travel will also be possible from all EU and Schengen countries (including UK) with infection rates above 25 per 100 000 persons, with testing. Travelers from these countries will need to bring proof of a negative COVID-19 test result no older than 72 hours. Then, upon arrival in Finland, visitors from these countries are placed in quarantine for 72 hours after which they need to take a second test. After a second negative COVID-19 test result, the person can move around in Finland freely
Can the United States or Canada travel to Finland?
Canada is permitted into Finland as of September 19th. (with quarantine)
The USA is currently not permitted into Finland.
Is entry into Finland based on physical location for the last 14-days, residency or nationality?
Finland bases entry by “Residency + Location”, meaning they would like you to be a resident of an approved country, coming from that country.
Finnish citizens returning home
Finnish citizens always have the right to return to Finland, and everyone has the right to leave Finland if they wish, unless the right is restricted by law.
However, the government continues to recommend avoiding unnecessary travel to countries other than those for which restrictions on entry have been lifted.
Anyone leaving Finland must also take into account any restrictions on the destination country for persons arriving from Finland.
Are masks mandatory in Finland?
Wearing of masks is encouraged but not Mandatory in Finland.
A government statement reads:
“The government does not make a general recommendation on the use of face masks, but believes the masks can be used to protect other people in places and situations where it is not possible to avoid close contact. Such situations can arise, for example, in public transport during peak times, where distances cannot be arranged and where longer times are spent.”
Summary: Use a mask when social distancing isn't possible.
What is open in Finland?
- All hotels and accommodation facilities have reopened
- Museums and other places of culture
- All restaurants, pubs and bars are allowed to open from 4:00 am until 2:00 am
- Liquor can be sold from 9:00 am until 1:00 am
- There are currently no restrictions on businesses operating
* Check with your chosen service provider for the availability of their service and any specific safety considerations.
Finland Making Exceptions for Separated Couples
As of August 6th, Finland is now making exceptions for couples who have been split up due to Covid-19 travel bans. They will now recognize un-married couples and allow the foreign partner to come to Finland, as long as one partner is:
- A Finnish citizen living in Finland
- OR an EU/Schengen citizen living in Finland
- OR a third-country national living in Finland with a Finnish residence permit
See how to apply, plus more information on the Finnish Couples Exception
Disclaimer: Finland reopening news is ever-changing and being updated constantly. We do our best to keep this article up to date with all the latest information, but the decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling
Sources: Finland Government Visit Finland
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