Citizenship test to be introduced in early 2027

A citizenship test will be introduced in Finland at the beginning of 2027. The test will assess knowledge of Finnish society and its key principles. The President of the Republic approved the amendments to the Citizenship Act on 16 June. The citizenship test will be introduced after the required legislative amendments have entered into force at the beginning of 2027.

The citizenship test is the final stage of a broader reform of the Citizenship Act, which tightens the conditions for acquiring Finnish citizenship.  The provisions on the required period of residence, integrity and sufficient financial resources have already been amended.

“These reforms encourage people to integrate, work and comply with the rules of Finnish society. Finnish citizenship does not come automatically,” says Minister of the Interior Mari Rantanen.

The amendments will add a new requirement for civic knowledge. To demonstrate their knowledge, applicants can pass the citizenship test, or they can complete a Finnish-language or Swedish-language matriculation examination or university degree. 

The questions in the citizenship test will be based on predefined, publicly available learning materials developed on the basis of existing civic orientation materials. The materials will both help applicants prepare for the test and ensure transparency and impartiality.

The test questions will cover topics such as key legislation on Finnish society, fundamental and human rights, equality, gender equality, and Finland’s history and culture. Applicants will take the computer-based test in Finnish or Swedish.

The new official duties related to the citizenship test will be taken on by the Finnish Immigration Service. It will commission another organisation, such as a university, to prepare the test.

Approximately half of the EU Member States require applicants to demonstrate civic knowledge through a citizenship test or other means. Among the Nordic countries, Denmark and Norway already have citizenship tests.

Inquiries:

Roope Jokinen, Chief Specialist, tel. +358 295 488 362, [email protected]
Hanna Pihkanen, Senior Specialist, tel. +358 295 488 217, [email protected]