Residence permits for entrepreneurs and freelancers

Invetsment, Entrpreneurship and Freelancing

If your intention is to relocate to Finland in order to start a business, you can do so by investment of buy shares of a running business. Entrepreneurs often need to register their business in the Trade Register kept by the Finnish Patent and Registration Office before a permission may be provided.

To consider as an entrepreneur, you can choose one of the following options:
- a private business owner who runs what is referred to as a "individually owned business"
- a general partner in a limited partnership, or a partner in a general partnership.
- a cooperative member
- a shareholder serving in a managerial capacity as a member of the board of directors or as managing director of a limited liability business

Working independently, typically for a number of contractors, without a formal employment relationship is what is meant by freelancing. If you work for yourself while engaging in entrepreneurial activities, you are regarded as a freelancer. A residence permit for an entrepreneur is typically required if you want to operate in Finland as a freelancer or a small business owner.