Key takeaways

Finland increased residence permit fees on January 1, 2026, and tightened permanent residency rules on January 8.

Sweden is introducing stricter integration measures, emphasizing language and cultural requirements.

Denmark is prepared to challenge the European Court of Human Rights to enforce stricter border controls.

The Rovaniemi immigration office in Finland reopened with extended evening hours to process backlogs.

Portugal is debating whether Golden Visa investors must wait 5 or 10 years for citizenship.

Finland Tightens Permanent Residency and Raises Fees

Starting January 2026, Finland has implemented stricter immigration policies. On January 1, the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) officially increased the processing fees for residence permits. Applicants must now budget for these higher tariffs when applying.

Furthermore, as of January 8, 2026, the requirements for obtaining permanent residency (PR) in Finland have become more rigorous. Applicants will face higher thresholds to prove their eligibility and integration into Finnish society.

Finland's Rovaniemi Office Extends Hours

In a positive development for applicants facing delays, the immigration office in Rovaniemi has reopened. To help clear existing residence permit backlogs, the office has introduced extended evening hours, accelerating the processing times for applicants in the region.

Sweden Focuses on Mandatory Integration

Sweden has developed new measures aimed at the mandatory integration of migrants. The government is shifting its focus toward ensuring newcomers actively adapt to Swedish society and its rules.

Prospective residents should prepare for stricter language and cultural checks. Enrolling in intensive Swedish language courses is highly recommended to meet these upcoming integration requirements.

Denmark Challenges European Migration Norms

Denmark is adopting the region's strictest rhetoric regarding border control. The Danish government has signaled its readiness to step outside the framework of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) to enforce its tightened migration policies.

Portugal's Golden Visa Citizenship Timeline Debate

While Nordic countries tighten their borders, Southern Europe presents its own uncertainties. In Portugal, discussions have resurfaced regarding the timeline for Golden Visa investors to obtain citizenship.

Investors are currently facing uncertainty over whether the required waiting period will be 5 or 10 years. Applicants are advised to plan for a potential 10-year scenario before acquiring a passport.

Nordic Immigration Updates: Finland Raises Fees, Sweden Pushes Integration