Citizenship: rights and responsibilities
Finnish citizenship is a legal status that grants full political rights and establishes a permanent legal bond between the individual and the Finnish state. Citizenship brings both rights and responsibilities that apply in everyday life.
Rights of Finnish citizens
Finnish citizens have full political rights. This includes the right to vote and stand as a candidate in parliamentary, presidential, municipal, and European Parliament elections.
Citizens also have an unconditional right to enter Finland, live in the country permanently, and receive protection from Finnish authorities abroad.
Legal status and protection
Citizenship provides a secure legal status. Finnish citizens cannot be deported or denied entry into Finland.
When abroad, Finnish citizens may receive consular assistance from Finnish embassies or missions, especially in emergencies.
Responsibilities and duties
Citizenship also involves responsibilities. All citizens must obey Finnish law, pay taxes, and respect the rights of others.
Certain obligations, such as national defence duties, apply specifically to citizens and not to all residents.
National defence obligations
Finnish law requires male citizens to participate in national defence, usually through military service. Alternative civilian service is available for conscientious objectors.
National defence is considered a shared responsibility linked to Finland’s security policy.
Citizenship in everyday life
Beyond legal rights and duties, citizenship reflects participation in Finnish society. This includes engagement in working life, education, civic organisations, and democratic discussion.
Active citizenship supports social trust and the functioning of Finnish democracy.