International students are legally allowed to work for 30 hours a week during the academic year and full-time during vacation. While finding jobs can be a challenge, learning Finnish and Swedish can be generally helpful.
International students from all countries, including Nepal, can apply for a post-study residence permit. Students must hold a valid student residence permit and a degree from a recognized Finnish higher education institution. Applications can be submitted online through the Enter Finland portal.
Permanent Residence Permit is an official permit that lets a non-citizen live and work for an indefinite period. There are many routes to obtain a permanent residence permit in Finland, but the two most popular pathways for international students are:
Students who have completed a Masters or a licentiate or doctoral degree for a research university or university of applied sciences (UAS) or Bachelors from a research university are eligible to apply for PRP through this pathway providing they meet all the other criteria which includes but are not limited to having an adequate Finnish or Swedish Language proficiency (level A2 or 15 credits in the Finnish or Swedish language at a higher education institution), and can provide proof of financial stability. If all eligibility criteria are met, students can process their application through the Enter Finland portal.
Non-citizens who have resided in Finland for over 4 years and earn over 40,000 euros are eligible to apply for PRP through this pathway. It is mandatory, however, to have spent the 4 years under a continuous (A-permit) or a Brexit permit.
Note: The government of Finland changed the requirement for PRP recently on 8th of January 2026. To stay updated and learn more about your stay in Finland after graduation, book an appointment with us at Noble International Consultancy.