Special permit required in certain company setup situations

When establishing a limited company or a subsidiary of a foreign enterprise in Finland, you may need a licence from the Finnish Patent and Registration Office (PRH) to act as a director or officer of a company registered in the Trade Register, if you are not permanently resident in the European Economic Area (EEA).

Who needs a special permit in Finland?

A person who resides outside the European Economic Area (EEA) can serve as a board member, or in another position of responsibility in a Finnish limited liability company, but he/she may need an authorization, if there are not otherwise enough EEA based board members. Citizenship is not the key factor – permanent place of residence is. 

When is a permit required? 

Board Members and Deputy Members 

• At least one ordinary board member and one deputy board member must be resident in the EEA. 

• If not, all non-EEA residents must obtain a permit from the PRH. 

Managing Director and Deputy Managing Director 

• Must reside within the EEA or apply for a permit from the PRH. 

Econia offers expert support for the entire permit process as well as other key stages of company formation and management.