When you come to Finland you must ensure that the following matters are in order: You need a valid passport before leaving your home country unless you are a citizen of a Nordic country, EU country (with the exception of Greece), Switzerland, Liechtenstein or San Marino. However you do need a valid identity card to prove your identity. Note please, if you wish to travel to Russia during your exchange period, a valid passport is needed. Visas and residence permits may also be required depending on the length of your stay and your nationality. If your stay in Finland is to last less than 3 months you do not need to apply for a visa or a residence permit before arriving in the country if you are a citizen of an EEA country (European Economic Area - all EU countries + Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway). There are no limitations for those who are citizens of the Nordic countries. If you are a Nordic country citizen you can work and study in Finland without a visa, residence permit and work permit.