As of July 15, Finland has officially banned Russian and Belarusian citizens from purchasing real estate in the country, a move authorities say is aimed at strengthening national security.
The new legislation, which came into effect yesterday, prohibits individuals from Russia and Belarus from acquiring immovable property in Finland, including both residential and commercial assets.
Finnish Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen described the ban as a long-overdue reform.
“When I started at the Ministry of Defence, I identified this as a shortcoming and began preparing property transaction regulations nearly two years ago,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).
He emphasized that the decision is part of Finland’s broader efforts to reinforce its security infrastructure and to prepare for all forms of foreign influence.
“This is about enhancing Finland’s security and preparing for every kind of influence operation.”
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