University of Helsinki to develop Finland’s new citizenship test

Finland will introduce a citizenship test in March 2027, with the University of Helsinki selected to develop it, Yle reports. The test will become a requirement for citizenship applications submitted from March 1, 2027. Applications filed before that date will not require the test.

The Finnish Immigration Service confirmed the timetable to Yle. The test will assess applicants’ knowledge of Finnish society, including key legislation, fundamental and human rights, equality, Finnish history and culture, and how society functions.

The electronic test will be taken in Finnish or Swedish. It will apply to applicants aged 18 to 65. Applicants will be exempt if they have completed a matriculation examination or a higher education degree in Finnish or Swedish.

The University of Helsinki won a tender organised by the Finnish Immigration Service. About 800,000 euros has been allocated for the preparation of the test. The university will produce learning materials, prepare the test and commit to developing it when necessary for four years.

Interior Minister Mari Rantanen said the test would show that an applicant had successfully integrated into Finnish society and understood its values.

The test has also faced criticism in Parliament. Anna Kontula of the Left Alliance and Alviina Alametsä of the Greens said the cost of taking the test could place applicants in an unequal position. They also argued that passing the test would not necessarily demonstrate familiarity with or commitment to society, its core values, laws and practices.

Similar tests have been introduced in Estonia, Denmark, Norway and Germany. Sweden is also due to introduce one this month.