RIZE Consulting

A recent headline from Iltalehti caught our attention.

The article discusses a rule related to residence-based Kela benefits and migrants who do not have a valid residence permit in Finland. The topic refers to a policy change that took effect on 1 April 2026, and it is worth understanding what actually changed.

According to Kela, people who do not have a valid residence permit in Finland are not entitled to residence-based benefits.

What changed is this:

If a person receives a negative residence permit decision, eligibility for Kela benefits now ends immediately, even if the person appeals the decision.

Previously, benefits could sometimes continue during the appeal process until the decision became legally final.

The change mainly affects people who applied for a residence permit in Finland and received a negative decision, but remain in the country while appealing the decision. In the past, some individuals in this situation could continue receiving certain Kela benefits while their appeal was still being processed. From 1 April 2026, eligibility for those benefits ends once the negative decision is issued.

Source
https://www.kela.fi/news/persons-without-a-valid-residence-permit-no-longer-qualify-for-residence-based-kela-benefits-as-of-1-april-2026

Another important point that many people overlook:

If someone applies for a continuing residence permit (jatkolupa) before the current permit expires, their stay in Finland remains legal while the application is being processed.

Source
Finnish Immigration Service
https://migri.fi/en/extended-permit

In practice, this highlights how important the timing of residence permit applications — and how a case is presented — can be. Immigration situations often involve more than simply submitting forms. Small details in timing, employment history, or how a situation is explained can sometimes make a difference in how a case is assessed.

At RIZE Consulting, migrants can request a Case Review + Step Plan service. This includes a review of the situation, a document checklist, and a practical discussion of possible next steps.

For those navigating residence permits, extensions, or immigration questions in Finland, this page will continue sharing explanations when immigration-related developments appear in the news.

Expert help. Filipino heart.

Source (news article that triggered this discussion):
https://www.iltalehti.fi/politiikka/a/fae54b41-a356-469c-81eb-0edbca1502ae

Got this today while riding the bus — HSL doing their commuter surveys again.

Nice reminder that even everyday passengers get a say in how public transport improves.

Happening right now until 16.00 in Helsinki!

Townhall meeting with the Philippine delegation of Department of Migrant Workers!

A typical scene during school recess – kids enjoying playtime while teachers keep a watchful eye.

Conversations that matter often start with coffee ☕—especially here in Finland, the world’s top coffee-loving nation. 🇫🇮

This week, we connected with leaders and peers from the ASEAN and Nordic communities 🌏—building bridges, sharing ideas, and opening doors for future collaboration. 🤝✨

Beyond consulting, we live the journey too. Events like Parhaat Pidot remind us that integration also means community.

Welcome to RIZE Consulting — Expert help, Filipino heart.

Based in Helsinki, Finland, RIZE Consulting provides practical guidance for immigrants, professionals, families, and entrepreneurs navigating life and systems in Finland.

While many people first approach us about residence permits, the reality is that living and working in Finland often involves navigating several authorities at the same time — such as Migri, Employment Services, KELA, and Vero. Changes in employment, studies, benefits, or business situations can sometimes create uncertainty or complex questions.

RIZE Consulting helps individuals and organizations understand their situation clearly and prepare practical next steps.

Our services include guidance in areas such as:

• Residence permit applications and extensions
• Preparing responses to Migri clarification requests
• Immigration case review and strategy discussions
• Understanding processes involving TE Services, KELA, and Vero
• Study, career, and integration pathways in Finland
• Guidance for entrepreneurs starting or operating businesses in Finland
• Workshops and information sessions on immigration, integration, and navigating Finnish systems

What makes RIZE Consulting unique?

We combine professional insight with real-life experience navigating Finland’s systems. Our approach focuses on clarity, practical guidance, and helping clients move forward with confidence when facing complex situations.

We also share practical insights, discussions, and information sessions to support immigrant communities and organizations.

Follow this page to stay updated, and feel free to reach out if you need guidance in navigating life and administrative systems in Finland.