Finland issues two main categories of entry permissions:
• Schengen Visa (Type C) — short stays up to 90 days in any 180 (tourism, family, short business).
• Long-stay routes — typically a Finnish residence permit for study, work, or family (stays over 90 days). In many cases you apply online via Enter Finland, give biometrics at an embassy/VFS, and receive a residence permit card before or after entry. Some permit holders may receive an entry D visa once a permit is granted.