The New Finnish Citizenship Test (2026): Format, Questions, and What to Expect

If you are planning to apply for a Finnish passport, you need to know about a major change coming to the application process. On April 16, 2026, the Finnish Government submitted a proposal to introduce a new citizenship test (kansalaisuuskoe). If the law passes, the test will be introduced at the beginning of 2027.

This has caused a lot of confusion for people currently studying for the YKI language test. Here is a detailed breakdown of what the new exam looks like, what topics it covers, and what it means for your application.

What is the New Citizenship Test?

The new citizenship test is designed to measure your knowledge of how Finnish society works, its key principles, and your rights and responsibilities. It is similar to the "life in society" tests required by many other European countries.

What Will the Test Look Like?

Thanks to the latest updates, we now have a clear picture of what to expect on exam day:

• Format: The exam will be taken on a computer in person under supervision.
• Language: You must take the test in either Finnish or Swedish.
• Questions: The test will include between 20 and 40 multiple-choice and true-or-false questions.
• Passing Score: You will need to answer approximately 70% of the questions correctly to pass.

What Topics Will Be Covered?

You will not have to guess what is on the test. The Finnish Immigration Service will oversee the exam, and the questions will be based on predefined, publicly available learning materials. These materials will cover:

• Key legislation on how Finnish society works.
• Fundamental and human rights.
• Equality and gender equality.
• Finland's history and culture.

Who is Exempt from the Test?

Not everyone will have to take the new citizenship test. You may be exempt if:

• You are under 18 or over 65 years old.
• You have a significant, long-term medical condition or disability that prevents you from taking the exam.
• You have completed a Finnish- or Swedish-language matriculation examination or hold a university degree in either language.

Does This Replace the YKI Test?

No, the citizenship test does not replace the YKI language test. Language skills remain a completely separate requirement. If the law takes effect, future applicants will need to present both a certificate of their language skills (like the YKI test) and a passing citizenship test score to prove civic knowledge.

How Should You Prepare Right Now?

Because the actual study materials are still being created, the absolute best thing you can do right now is focus on your Finnish language skills. Since the new citizenship test must be taken in Finnish or Swedish, passing your YKI test first will make reading the new civic study materials much easier. Keep practicing your vocabulary and listening skills!