Restrictions on entry at Finland’s external borders to continue and health security measures to be tightened

Ministry for Foreign Affairs
Publication date 17.12.2021 16.28
News item

In line with the Government decision of 16 December, the restrictions on entry at Finland’s external borders will continue and health security measures will be tightened as of 20 December. The decision will remain in force until 16 January 2022

According to the decision, passengers arriving from outside the EU and the Schengen area will be required, as of 21 December, to show a negative COVID-19 test certificate issued less than 48 hours before their arrival in addition to proof of a full course of vaccination.

This requirement applies until 31 December 2021 to those born in 2005 or earlier, and as of 1 January 2022, to those born in 2006 or earlier.

The requirement does not apply to Finnish citizens, persons living in Finland or in another EU or Schengen country when they return to their country of residence, nor to persons who have an essential reason for entry, such as compelling family matters or another compelling personal reason.

However, all passengers are required to present certificates as laid down in the Communicable Diseases Act and comply with the decisions made by the Regional State Administrative Agencies on compulsory health examinations.

People may enter Finland from EU and Schengen countries without travel restrictions as before.

Visit the website of the Finnish Border Guard for more information about the restrictions on entry and the website of the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare for more information on health security measures.

Travellers should note that many airlines and shipping companies are not permitting entry into the country of destination unless passengers present proof of a negative COVID-19 test, proof of recovery from COVID-19 or proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Travellers must be active and contact the shipping company or airline concerned to find out which certificates are required for different destinations.

Inquiries:
The Finnish Border Guard gives advice on cross-border traffic by phone and email. The service is available in Finnish, Swedish and English on weekdays between 8.00 and 16.00 at +358 295 420 100. Questions can also be sent by email to [email protected].
  
If you have any questions about approved vaccines or quarantine or testing requirements, please call the Government COVID-19 helpline at +358 295 535 535 or visit the website of the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare.