Published on February 24, 2026
As 2026 unfolds, a remarkable new chapter in global mobility begins for Finnish passport holders, with visa-free access now extending to 10 major destinations, including Sweden, Estonia, Spain, Germany, Greece, the United States, Japan, Thailand, Brazil, and Fiji. This significant development simplifies travel logistics for Finns, allowing them to explore these countries without the hassle of visa applications. The surge in visa-free travel is poised to reshape global travel patterns and significantly bolster Finnish outbound tourism.
In the following article, we’ll carefully examine the benefits of these visa-free options, highlight key tourist attractions in each destination, and discuss the airlines connecting Finland to these exciting locales. Whether you’re gearing up for a cultural exploration, a sun-soaked beach holiday, or an adventure-filled getaway, these new travel opportunities are truly your golden ticket to explore the world.
Visa-Free Travel: The Key Benefits for Finnish Passport Holders
Ranking consistently among the world’s most powerful, the Henley Passport Index underscores the exquisite travel freedom enjoyed by Finnish passport holders, with access to over 160 countries and territories without the need for visas or with visa-on-arrival options. These benefits stem from Finland’s diplomatic agreements, allowing citizens to traverse diverse tourist attractions with ease.
As we delve into 2026, this year marks a pivotal moment for Finnish outbound travel, which increasingly focuses on leisure, cultural exchange, and business opportunities. The addition of these ten visa-free destinations enhances Finland’s position within the global tourism landscape, spotlighting its passport as a key facilitator of mobility.
1. Sweden: A Neighboring Gem for Finnish Travelers
Visa-Free Access:
Thanks to the Schengen Area agreement, Finnish citizens enjoy seamless travel to Sweden for tourism, business, or leisure. With just a valid passport or ID card, crossing the border into Sweden has never been easier.
Top Attractions:
- Stockholm Archipelago: A breathtaking tapestry of over 30,000 islands to explore, perfect for a summer escape.
- Gamla Stan: Stockholm’s historic Old Town, brimming with cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and lively cafes.
- Lapland: A winter wonderland complete with Northern Lights, dog sledding, and visits to Santa Claus in Rovaniemi.
Airline Connectivity:
Frequent flights operate from Helsinki to Stockholm, courtesy of Finnair and SAS, while ferry services such as Tallink Silja Line offer daily connections, enhancing travel flexibility.
2. Estonia: Discover the Charm of the Baltics
Visa-Free Access:
Estonia, another Schengen member, welcomes Finnish citizens with visa-free entry for stays of up to 90 days, making it a favored destination for weekend getaways.
Top Attractions:
- Tallinn: With its UNESCO-listed Old Town, Tallinn is a fairytale-like city that invites exploration of its medieval streets and scenic town square.
- Lahemaa National Park: A natural haven featuring trails that wind through forests and along the coast, a perfect backdrop for hiking and wildlife spotting.
- Pärnu: Famous for its soothing beaches and vibrant cultural scene, Pärnu shines as a popular summer retreat.
Airline Connectivity:
Flights between Helsinki and Tallinn are served by Finnair and Nordica, alongside daily ferries from Tallink Silja and Viking Line that offer a picturesque travel option.
3. Spain: Sun, Culture, and Beaches – No Visa Required
Visa-Free Access:
Finnish passport holders benefit from Spain’s Schengen Area membership, enjoying stays of up to 90 days without a visa. The allure of Spain’s balmy climate and rich history continually attracts Finnish tourists.
Top Attractions:
- Barcelona: Renowned for the architectural wonders of Gaudí, including the iconic Sagrada Familia and the bustling La Rambla.
- Madrid: Spain’s capital, celebrated for its lavish museums like the Prado and historic sites like the Royal Palace.
- Balearic Islands: Encompassing Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca, these islands entice visitors with their sun-kissed beaches and luxurious resorts.
Airline Connectivity:
Direct flights from Helsinki to Madrid and Barcelona are available via Finnair, Iberia, and Vueling, ensuring ease of access year-round.
4. Germany: Culture, History, and Adventure Await
Visa-Free Access:
Finnish travelers can explore Germany sans visa for up to 90 days due to its Schengen membership. A land rich in history, Germany offers something for everyone from the vibrant streets of Berlin to Bavaria’s enchanting castles.
Top Attractions:
- Berlin: Renowned for its cultural diversity, must-see landmarks include the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall.
- Bavaria: Home to the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle and charming beer gardens in Munich.
- Rhine Valley: A scenic landscape dotted with castles, vineyards, and quaint towns such as Heidelberg.
Airline Connectivity:
Direct flights from Helsinki to Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt are provided by Finnair, Lufthansa, and Eurowings, catering to Finnish travelers’ needs.
5. Greece: History, Islands, and Mediterranean Delights
Visa-Free Access:
Finnish citizens can freely enter Greece for up to 90 days, thanks to the Schengen agreement. Its captivating scenery and cultural richness rank Greece among Finland’s top travel choices.
Top Attractions:
- Athens: A treasure trove for history lovers, featuring the Acropolis and Parthenon.
- Santorini: Famed for its stunning sunsets and iconic whitewashed buildings.
- Crete: The largest Greek island offers ancient ruins and enchanting beaches.
Airline Connectivity:
Finnair and Aegean Airlines provide regular flights between Helsinki and Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion, with budget options available for island hopping.
6. United States: Big Opportunities, No Visa Hassles
Visa-Free Access:
Under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), Finnish passport holders can visit the U.S. for up to 90 days with an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), streamlining the travel process.
Top Attractions:
- New York City: Experience iconic sights like Times Square and Central Park.
- National Parks: Discover natural wonders such as Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon.
- California: Enjoy the beaches of Santa Monica and the excitement of Disneyland.
Airline Connectivity:
Direct flights are available to New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, provided by Finnair, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.
7. Japan: Discover Ancient Traditions and Modern Marvels
Visa-Free Access:
Finnish citizens can immerse themselves in Japan’s rich culture for up to 90 days without a visa, exploring the unique fusion of tradition and modernity.
Top Attractions:
- Tokyo: A vibrant metropolis where cutting-edge technology meets historic landmarks.
- Kyoto: Famed for its ancient temples and serene gardens.
- Mount Fuji: Japan’s iconic peak, a favorite for hiking and scenic views.
Airline Connectivity:
Direct flights from Helsinki to Tokyo and Osaka are available with Finnair and Japan Airlines, ensuring Finnish travelers can easily access Japan’s key cities.
8. Thailand: Exotic Beaches and Rich Culture
Visa-Free Access:
Finnish citizens enjoy up to 60 days in Thailand under the Tourist Visa Exemption Scheme, making this Southeast Asian gem a preferred choice for beach lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Top Attractions:
- Bangkok: A bustling city alive with street markets and cultural hotspots.
- Chiang Mai: Nestled among mountains, it’s known for its ancient temples.
- Phuket: Thailand’s largest island, famous for its beaches and vibrant resorts.
Airline Connectivity:
Direct flights to Bangkok are accessible through Finnair and Thai Airways, complemented by additional services from international carriers.
9. Brazil: Explore South America’s Biggest Jewel
Visa-Free Access:
Finnish passport holders can relish a 90-day visa-free experience in Brazil, revealing the country’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes.
Top Attractions:
- Rio de Janeiro: Famed for the Christ the Redeemer statue and lively Copacabana Beach.
- Iguazu Falls: One of the most stunning waterfall systems in the world.
- Amazon Rainforest: Explore diverse ecosystems and wildlife within the Amazon basin.
Airline Connectivity:
Finnair, LATAM Airlines, and Air France offer flights from Helsinki to São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília.
10. Fiji: A Tropical Paradise at Your Fingertips
Visa-Free Access:
Finnish citizens can bask in Fiji’s tropical charm for up to four months without needing a visa, making it a preferred destination for sun-seekers.
Top Attractions:
- Coral Coast: A haven for diving and snorkeling, featuring stunning coral reefs.
- Mamanuca Islands: Known for luxurious beach resorts and crystal-clear waters.
- Traditional Fijian Villages: A glimpse into authentic Fijian culture and hospitality.
Airline Connectivity:
While there are no direct flights from Helsinki, Finnair, Qantas Airways, and Air New Zealand offer connections through hubs like Singapore, Hong Kong, or Sydney.
Full List of 185 Visa-Free Countries for Finns in 2026
Europe (Full Freedom of Movement or Visa-Free)
Finnish citizens enjoy unrestricted movement within the EU and Schengen Area, often requiring just a national ID card.
- EU/Schengen: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.
- Non-EU Europe: Albania, Andorra, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia (1 year), Kosovo, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, North Macedonia, San Marino, Serbia, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Vatican City.
The Americas
- North America: Canada (eTA), Mexico (180 days), United States (ESTA).
- Central America & Caribbean: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Costa Rica, Dominica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Nicaragua, Panama, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago.
- South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, Venezuela.
Asia
- East & Southeast Asia: Brunei, Hong Kong, Indonesia (VoA), Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos (VoA), Macao, Malaysia, Mongolia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea (K-ETA), Taiwan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Uzbekistan, Vietnam (45 days).
- Middle East: Armenia, Bahrain (VoA), Iran (VoA), Israel, Jordan (VoA), Kuwait (VoA), Lebanon (VoA), Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia (e-Visa/VoA), United Arab Emirates.
- South Asia: Bangladesh (VoA), Maldives (VoA), Nepal (VoA), Pakistan (eTA), Sri Lanka (eTA).
Africa
- Angola, Benin (e-Visa), Botswana, Cape Verde, Comoros (VoA), Djibouti (VoA), Egypt (VoA), Eswatini, Ethiopia (VoA), Gabon, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau (VoA), Kenya (eTA), Lesotho, Madagascar (VoA), Malawi, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique (e-Visa), Namibia, Rwanda (VoA), Senegal, Seychelles (Registration), Sierra Leone (VoA), Somalia (VoA), South Africa, Tanzania (VoA), Togo (VoA), Tunisia, Uganda (VoA), Zambia, Zimbabwe (VoA).
Oceania
Australia (eVisitor), Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Palau, Papua New Guinea (VoA), Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu.
The Impact of Visa-Free Travel on Finland’s Tourism Industry
The rise in visa-free travel is creating significant waves in Finland’s tourism sector, spurring growth in outbound travel. The strength of Finland’s passport opens numerous doors for its citizens, and this enhanced mobility is directly influencing the nation’s tourism economy. An increasing number of Finnish residents are venturing abroad for both leisure and business, resulting in heightened demand for international flights, vacation packages, and hotel bookings.
Furthermore, airlines such as Finnair are reaping the rewards of this increased traffic to popular global destinations. Offering direct flights to cities like New York, Tokyo, and Bangkok, Finnair is well-positioned to capitalize on this boom in visa-free travel, ensuring seamless connectivity for those seeking international adventures.
The landscape of outbound tourism is shifting, with Finnish passport holders eager to explore long-haul destinations like the U.S., Japan, and Brazil. This evolution is not simply benefiting Finnish explorers but is also paving the way for economic growth within the global travel sector. As more international visitors arrive in Finland, the country’s inbound tourism flourishes, creating a balanced and dynamic travel market.
Conclusion: A World of Travel Awaits Finnish Passport Holders
The year 2026 heralds an extraordinary opportunity for Finnish passport holders, offering unparalleled access to some of the world’s most celebrated destinations—all under the umbrella of visa-free travel. From Sweden and Germany to Brazil and Fiji, the possibilities for Finnish travelers to engage with new cultures and environments have never been more abundant. Whether your passion lies in cultural exploration, adventurous pursuits, or tranquil relaxation, these ten visa-free countries promise effortless entry and access to remarkable experiences.
With enhanced flight connectivity and a broadened scope for global mobility, a new era of outbound tourism is dawning for Finnish citizens. It’s an ideal time to begin planning your next adventure, whether it’s a cultural immersion in Spain, a beach escape in Thailand, or an ecological adventure in Brazil—the world truly awaits your discovery!