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Finland Introduces New Civic Knowledge Requirement and Citizenship Test for Naturalisation

From 1 March 2027, citizenship applicants aged 18–64 will generally have to meet a new requirement demonstrating sufficient knowledge of Finnish society and its key principles. The requirement can be met by: passing the new citizenship test; completing a Finnish-language or Swedish-language matriculation examination in Finland; or completing a qualifying Finnish-language or Swedish-language higher-education degree in Finland. Qualifying higher-education studies include a bachelor's or master's degree at a university, or a bachelor's (AMK) or master's (YAMK) degree at a university of applied sciences. The citizenship test will be conducted digitally on site. Applicants can take it in Finnish or Swedish. The questions will be multiple choice and will cover subjects such as key legislation governing life in Finnish society, fundamental and human rights, equality including gender equality, Finnish history and culture. Most questions must be answered correctly to pass. The Finnish Immigration Service will publish official learning material before the first test. The first test is expected to take place in March 2027. Further information about preparation, test locations and practical arrangements is expected during autumn 2026. Special arrangements may be available in some circumstances, including illness or disability. These can include additional time, an oral test or use of a personal assistive device. In serious cases, an exemption from the civic-knowledge requirement may also be possible because of health, disability or another very serious reason.

Jurisdiction

Finland

Category

Citizenship

Recorded versions

1

Official source

migri.fi