Ugandan citizens may apply as non-EU nationals. Applicants must be entering Finland for expert duties requiring special expertise, earn at least EUR 3,937 gross per month in 2026 and hold a higher-education degree or otherwise demonstrate the special expertise required through work experience or other education.

Finland\'s specialist residence permit is designed for highly skilled foreign professionals entering expert positions that require special expertise. Applicants must already have confirmed employment before applying.

Benefits
A first specialist residence permit may be granted for up to two years, or for the duration of the employment relationship when the job is shorter. The permit authorises the approved specialist employment in Finland. The 2026 electronic application fee is EUR 530 and the paper application fee is EUR 630.

Requirements
Applicants need confirmed Finnish employment, documentation of the job and salary, a higher-education qualification or other evidence of specialist expertise, passport and identity documents and the supporting employment and immigration documents required by the Finnish Immigration Service.

How to apply
Secure confirmed specialist employment meeting the salary and expertise requirements. Complete the specialist residence-permit application through Finland\'s Enter Finland service, upload the required employment, qualification and identity documentation, pay the electronic fee and complete identity verification as instructed by the Finnish Immigration Service.