Thousands of Pakistani students admitted to Finnish universities for the September intake are facing growing uncertainty as delays and access issues linked to visa-related travel and residence permit processing continue to disrupt their plans.
With no Finnish embassy operating in Pakistan, students have to rely on Qatar, particularly Doha, for residence permit procedures and biometric verification. However, many affected students say the current situation has made that process increasingly difficult.
According to students, Qatar’s visa-on-arrival facility is currently suspended, while Hayya A1 approvals have remained pending for months. They also say appointment slots, including family dates in some cases, are either unavailable or extremely limited, leaving many without a clear path forward.
The uncertainty has put the September intake at risk for a large number of students who have already paid substantial university fees and booked accommodation in Finland. Many now fear they may miss the start of their academic term despite completing admissions and making financial commitments well in advance.
Students say the situation is taking a serious toll not just financially, but also mentally and academically, as they continue to wait for updates, timelines, and a workable solution.
What was expected to be a straightforward transition to higher education abroad is now turning into a crisis for many Pakistani students, who are urging the relevant authorities to intervene and address the bottlenecks affecting their travel and residence permit process.
If unresolved soon, the issue could impact the plans of thousands of Pakistani students set to begin their studies in Finland this September.
Visit EduNation to find scholarships from around the world.
📢 For the latest Education news and analysis join ProPakistani's WhatsApp Group now!
Follow ProPakistani on Google News & scroll through your favourite content faster!
Shares
