Residence Permit After Graduation
If you want to stay in Finland after your studies, you are eligible to apply for an extended residence permit to look for a job. This is typically the first residence permit students apply for after their studies, if they have not found a job yet. Otherwise, you can apply directly for an extended permit on the basis of work. If you would like to start a business right away, you can also apply directly for a residence permit for a start-up entrepreneur.
In general for all residence permits, you will have to fill out the application online on the Migri website and make an appointment at a service point of the Finnish Immigration Service. While filling out your application, you will be guided to make an appointment online. The nearest service points from Kajaani are in Oulu and Kuopio. During the appointment, you have to show a printout of your application, as well as original documents and your finger prints will be taken. After the appointment the processing of your application starts. The duration of processing depends on the grounds.
If you are thinking about becoming a Finnish citizen, take a look at this: Migri – Finnish Citizenship.
As an EU citizen, you do not need to apply for a residence permit, but you have to register your right of residence.