Finland to introduce citizenship test in 2027
Finland will introduce a citizenship test at the beginning of 2027, marking the final stage of a broader reform of the Citizenship Act. The test, approved by the President of the Republic on 16 June, will assess applicants' knowledge of Finnish society, its fundamental principles, and key legislation (Finnish Ministry of the Interior).
The reform tightens the conditions for obtaining Finnish citizenship, with changes already implemented regarding the required period of residence, good conduct, and financial self-sufficiency. Yle reports that Minister of the Interior Mari Rantanen (Finns Party) stated the reforms aim to encourage integration, employment, and adherence to Finnish societal rules, emphasising that "Finnish citizenship is not automatic."
New requirement for societal knowledge
Applicants will be required to demonstrate knowledge of Finnish society, either by passing the citizenship test or by completing a Finnish- or Swedish-language matriculation examination or higher education degree. The test will be based on publicly available learning materials, ensuring transparency and equal preparation opportunities (Finnish Ministry of the Interior).
The questions will cover topics such as fundamental and human rights, equality, gender equality, Finnish history, culture, and key legislation. The test will be administered electronically in Finnish or Swedish, with the Finnish Immigration Service overseeing its implementation. The Immigration Service will collaborate with an external organisation, such as a university, to develop the test (Yle).
Nordic and EU context
Approximately half of EU member states already require applicants to demonstrate societal knowledge through a citizenship test or similar method. Among the Nordic countries, Denmark and Norway have already implemented such tests (Finnish Ministry of the Interior).