Finland is surging the tourism industry with new visa-free policy for 72 countries including Schengen nations, Portugal, US and Taiwan

Published on June 24, 2024

Finland stands out as a premier destination, seamlessly blending adventure, culture, and luxury, making it ideal for various travel experiences—whether for leisure, holidaymaking, or business. The introduction of a new visa-free entry policy for citizens of 72 countries, including Schengen nations, the Portugal, US, and Taiwan many more, has significantly boosted Finland’s travel sector. Finland invites visitors to explore its storied past and unique traditions. The country’s historical charm is showcased through fascinating landmarks such as the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the picturesque town of Porvoo, renowned for its well-preserved wooden houses and medieval architecture. Finland’s diverse geography—from its vast northern wilderness of Lapland, known for its stunning Northern Lights, to the myriad of serene lakes and extensive archipelagos—offers abundant opportunities for adventure seekers. Activities range from husky sledding and snowmobiling in the winter wonderland to kayaking and hiking during the vibrant summer months. The pristine natural landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for those looking to connect with nature. Urban enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the vibrant cities of Helsinki and Turku. Helsinki, the capital, is celebrated for its innovative design, rich arts scene, and bustling markets. Turku, Finland’s oldest city, brims with historical significance and serves as a gateway to the archipelago. For leisure travelers, Finland offers a wealth of luxurious experiences. This includes staying in high-end hotels, indulging in world-class cuisine, or enjoying the tranquillity of lakeside saunas. Wellness retreats in Finnish Lapland provide rejuvenating escapes amidst serene snowy landscapes. Finland’s burgeoning economy and sophisticated urban hubs make it an attractive destination for corporate travel and business meetings. Helsinki, in particular, is emerging as a central hub for international conferences, trade fairs, and corporate events. The country’s hospitality industry excels in accommodating business travelers, with top-tier hotels and state-of-the-art facilities ensuring a smooth and productive stay.

TTW Editor in Chief Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan said: “The implementation of Finland’s visa-free policy for 72 countries, including Schengen nations, has been a transformative force for the tourism sector. This strategic move has not only simplified the entry process for millions but has also broadened our appeal across diverse travel sectors. Additionally, this policy has invigorated niche travel markets, such as culinary tourism, adventure travel, and wellness retreats, enriching the travel experience and fostering significant economic growth and cultural exchange.”

Schengen Area Countries

Citizens of all Schengen Area countries can enter Finland without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism or business within a 180-day period. These countries include:

1. Austria
2. Belgium
3. Czech Republic
4. Denmark
5. Estonia
6. France
7. Germany
8. Greece
9. Hungary
10. Iceland
11. Italy
12. Latvia
13. Lithuania
14. Luxembourg
15. Malta
16. Netherlands
17. Norway
18. Poland
19. Portugal
20. Slovakia
21. Slovenia
22. Spain
23. Sweden
24. Switzerland

European Union Non-Schengen Countries

These countries are part of the European Union but not in the Schengen Area. Their citizens can also enter Finland without a visa:

25. Bulgaria
26. Croatia
27. Cyprus
28. Romania

Non-EU European Countries

These countries are in Europe but not part of the EU or Schengen Area. They enjoy visa-free access to Finland:

29. Andorra
30. Monaco
31. San Marino
32. United Kingdom

Americas

Citizens from these countries in the Americas can enter Finland without a visa for short stays:

33. Argentina
34. Bahamas
35. Barbados
36. Brazil
37. Canada
38. Chile
39. Colombia
40. Costa Rica
41. Dominica
42. El Salvador
43. Grenada
44. Guatemala
45. Honduras
46. Jamaica
47. Mexico
48. Nicaragua
49. Panama
50. Paraguay
51. Peru
52. Saint Kitts and Nevis
53. Saint Lucia
54. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
55. Trinidad and Tobago
56. United States
57. Uruguay

Asia-Pacific

Countries from this region can enter Finland without a visa:

58. Australia
59. Brunei
60. Hong Kong
61. Israel
62. Japan
63. Malaysia
64. New Zealand
65. Singapore
66. South Korea
67. Taiwan

Middle East

Citizens from these Middle Eastern countries can visit Finland visa-free:

68. United Arab Emirates

Africa

The following African countries’ citizens can enter Finland without a visa:

69. Mauritius
70. Seychelles

Special Administrative Regions

Certain regions have special agreements allowing their citizens visa-free entry to Finland:

71. Hong Kong
72. Macau

From the list of countries eligible for visa-free entry into Finland, here are the top 5 countries by GDP, based on the latest available data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank:

1. United States

• GDP: Approximately $26.7 trillion (2022)
• Visa-Free Stay in Finland: Up to 90 days
• Overview: The US has the largest economy globally, driven by a diverse range of sectors including technology, finance, and consumer goods.

2. Japan

• GDP: Approximately $4.2 trillion (2022)
• Visa-Free Stay in Finland: Up to 90 days
• Overview: Japan is known for its advanced technology, robust manufacturing industry, and significant contributions to global trade.

3. Germany

• GDP: Approximately $4.0 trillion (2022)
• Visa-Free Stay in Finland: Up to 90 days
• Overview: As the largest economy in Europe, Germany is renowned for its engineering, automotive industry, and strong export market.

4. United Kingdom

• GDP: Approximately $3.1 trillion (2022)
• Visa-Free Stay in Finland: Up to 90 days
• Overview: The UK’s economy is highly diversified, with significant strengths in finance, services, and technology sectors.

5. France

• GDP: Approximately $2.8 trillion (2022)
• Visa-Free Stay in Finland: Up to 90 days
• Overview: France’s economy is characterized by a strong industrial base, vibrant services sector, and a leading position in luxury goods and tourism.

Top Airports in Finland

Finland’s airports play a crucial role in connecting the country to the rest of the world, offering modern facilities and efficient services. Here are the top airports in Finland:

1. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL)
   • Location: Vantaa, near Helsinki
   • Overview: The largest and busiest airport in Finland, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport serves as the main international gateway and a hub for air traffic. It offers extensive connections to Europe, Asia, and North America.
   • Facilities: Known for its efficient layout, modern amenities, and high passenger satisfaction. It includes a range of dining, shopping, and relaxation options, alongside robust services for business travelers.
   • Passenger Traffic: Over 20 million passengers annually (pre-pandemic figures).

2. Tampere-Pirkkala Airport (TMP)

• Location: Pirkkala, near Tampere
• Overview: The second-busiest airport in Finland, offering domestic and European flights. It is an important regional hub with a growing number of international connections.
• Facilities: Offers essential passenger services including lounges, cafes, and car rental options.
• Passenger Traffic: Handles over 400,000 passengers annually.

3. Oulu Airport (OUL)

• Location: Oulunsalo, near Oulu
• Overview: The primary airport serving Northern Finland, Oulu Airport facilitates domestic flights and some international charters, playing a key role in regional connectivity.
• Facilities: Provides a comfortable travel experience with amenities like dining options, a business lounge, and conference facilities.
• Passenger Traffic: Approximately 1 million passengers annually.

4. Turku Airport (TKU)

• Location: Turku
• Overview: Serving the southwestern region of Finland, Turku Airport offers both domestic and European routes, including several low-cost carrier options.
• Facilities: Includes basic passenger services, shops, and cafes, catering well to budget travelers.
• Passenger Traffic: Around 450,000 passengers annually.

5. Rovaniemi Airport (RVN)

• Location: Rovaniemi
• Overview: Known as the gateway to Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi Airport serves as the primary access point for tourists visiting the Arctic Circle and Santa Claus Village.
• Facilities: Offers unique services related to its location, including Santa-themed attractions and excellent winter travel facilities.
• Passenger Traffic: Approximately 500,000 passengers annually.

Top Airlines in Finland

Finland’s airlines are known for their safety, punctuality, and excellent service. Here are the leading carriers:

1. Finnair
   • Overview: The flag carrier and largest airline in Finland, Finnair is renowned for its extensive European and Asian routes, connecting through its Helsinki hub. It is a member of the Oneworld alliance.
   • Specialties: Finnair is known for its premium services, including excellent in-flight dining and comfortable long-haul travel options. It places a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovative customer experiences.
   • Fleet Size: Over 80 aircraft.

2. Norra (Nordic Regional Airlines)

• Overview: A regional partner for Finnair, Norra operates domestic and regional flights across the Nordic countries, ensuring seamless connections with Finnair’s network.
• Specialties: Known for its efficient regional service and frequent flights within Finland and neighboring countries.
• Fleet Size: Approximately 25 aircraft.

Norwegian Air Shuttle

• Overview: Norwegian is a popular low-cost carrier in Finland, offering extensive routes across Europe from Finnish airports, particularly Helsinki.
• Specialties: Known for its affordable fares and modern fleet, Norwegian provides a cost-effective way to travel around Europe.
• Fleet Size: Over 100 aircraft (network-wide)

Ryanair

• Overview: Ryanair, another major low-cost carrier, operates from Finland’s smaller regional airports, providing budget-friendly flights primarily to European destinations.
• Specialties: Known for its extensive network and low-cost fares, Ryanair offers numerous connections from Turku and Tampere.
• Fleet Size: Over 400 aircraft (network-wide).

SAS (Scandinavian Airlines)

• Overview: SAS operates flights between Finland and other Scandinavian countries, as well as broader European routes. It is known for its high standard of service and frequent flyer benefits.
• Specialties: Provides a reliable option for both business and leisure travelers, with a focus on Scandinavian destinations and a reputation for punctuality.
• Fleet Size: Over 130 aircraft (network-wide).

Visa-free travelers to Finland can enjoy a wide array of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural sites, and unique experiences. Here are some of the top tourist destinations in Finland that are perfect for exploring:

1. Helsinki

Why Visit:

• The capital city offers a blend of modern and historical attractions, vibrant cultural life, and stunning architecture. Key sites include the Helsinki Cathedral, the unique Rock Church (Temppeliaukio Church), and the historic Suomenlinna Sea Fortress.
• Helsinki is also known for its design district, bustling markets like the Market Square, and beautiful waterfronts.

Top Attractions:

• Suomenlinna Sea Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage site, offering museums, parks, and panoramic views of the archipelago.

Helsinki Cathedral: An iconic landmark of neoclassical architecture.

Temppeliaukio (Rock) Church: A church built directly into solid rock, known for its unique design and acoustics.

2. Lapland and Rovaniemi

Why Visit:

• Known as the home of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland offers a magical experience with opportunities to see the Northern Lights, enjoy reindeer and husky sledding, and visit Santa Claus Village.
• The region is a winter wonderland with beautiful landscapes, snow-covered forests, and opportunities for unique Arctic activities.

Top Attractions:

• Santa Claus Village: Meet Santa Claus, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards from Santa’s official post office.
• Northern Lights: Best seen from September to March, these natural light displays are a bucket-list experience.
• Arktikum Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Finnish Lapland and the Arctic region.

3. Tampere

Why Visit:

• Tampere is known for its industrial heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful surrounding lakes.
• The city offers museums, theaters, and a lively market hall, alongside its famous Pyynikki Observation Tower with panoramic views.

Top Attractions:

• Moomin Museum: Dedicated to Tove Jansson’s beloved Moomin characters, this museum offers interactive exhibits and art.
• Särkänniemi Adventure Park: A family-friendly amusement park with rides, an aquarium, and a planetarium.
• Tampere Market Hall: The largest indoor market in the Nordics, offering a variety of local foods and products.

4. Turku

Why Visit:

• As Finland’s oldest city, Turku is rich in history and culture, featuring medieval architecture and vibrant riverside scenes.
• It’s also the gateway to the beautiful Turku Archipelago, offering serene nature and coastal experiences.

Top Attractions:

• Turku Castle: A medieval fortress that now serves as a museum showcasing Finnish history from the Middle Ages onwards.
• Turku Cathedral: One of Finland’s most significant religious buildings, with stunning architecture and historical exhibits.