Migri requested additional documents: how to respond correctly
If Migri has requested additional documents, read the instructions in the request carefully and respond as quickly as possible within the stated deadline. The authority is entitled to make a decision even if you do not submit what was requested, and that decision may then be negative.
Your response must therefore be complete, in the correct form, and on time. The document requirements, the method of submission, and the deadline are set out in your request, not in general instructions. Also prepare translations and apostilles if foreign documents have been requested.
Our experience at International Law Firm "Zahist" shows that most negative decisions following a request are linked not to the absence of a right, but to an incomplete or late response. Below we explain how to respond correctly to a Migri request and not lose your chance.
What a Migri request for additional documents means
A request for supplementation arises when information needed to make a decision is missing. It is not a refusal, but a normal stage of the examination during which the authority clarifies the circumstances of the case.
| Situation | What it means |
| A request for supplementation has been received | The case is under consideration, but additional information is required |
| The request states a deadline | You must respond by that date |
| Documents were not submitted on time | Migri may make a decision on the basis of the information already available |
| The response is incomplete | The decision may also be negative |
The request most often concerns proof of identity, family ties, income, or residence. The specific requirements depend on the type of application, so do not rely on other people’s stories.
How to read the request and not miss anything important
The first step is to read the request in full, not only the first part. It states exactly what is required, in what form, and by what date.
If the request is written in a language you do not understand, do not delay the translation. Misunderstanding a requirement may cost you the outcome of the entire case.
Separately check whether the request contains several parts with their own deadlines. Sometimes different dates are given for different documents, and they must be met according to the schedule, not as a single package on the last day.
Also pay attention to the method of submission. If the request contains instructions on how to respond to a Migri request that limit the file format, file size, or submission channel, follow them literally so that the response is not rejected on formal grounds.
How to respond correctly to a Migri request: a step-by-step procedure
The response must be complete, structured, and submitted in the manner specified in the request. This reduces the risk of further requests.
If you cannot provide a document, do not leave this unexplained. A short written comment stating the reason and supporting evidence sometimes resolves the issue.
Documents from Ukraine for a response to Migri: apostille, translation, copies
Foreign documents often require additional preparation. Finnish authorities accept documents in Finnish, Swedish, or English.
| Step | What to do |
| Obtain the original or a duplicate | Through a consulate, an authorised person, or online |
| Affix an apostille | If the document is subject to legalisation |
| Translate the document | Preferably by an authorised translator in Finland |
| Certify the copy | If the original version is not required |
| Check the data | Names and dates must match the passports |
DVV explains that a translation by an authorised translator in Finland does not require additional legalisation. For Migri, confirm the format in your request, as authorities may have their own requirements.
What Migri most often requests depending on the type of application
The content of the request depends on the application you submitted. Below is an indicative table of typical requests. It does not replace your request, but it helps you get your bearings.
| Type of application | What may be clarified |
| Residence permit on the basis of family ties | Marriage or birth documents, confirmation of the sponsor’s status, income |
| Work permit | Employment contract, information about the employer, salary |
| Extension of a permit | Confirmation of the grounds for residence and of changes in the situation |
| Citizenship | Documents concerning identity, residence, and language skills |
| Temporary protection | An identity document and information about the stay |
If the request concerns family ties, certificates with an apostille and a translation are most often required. If it concerns income, prepare confirmation from the employer or tax documents.
How to draft a cover letter for the response
A cover letter helps a Migri officer quickly see what you have submitted and how it corresponds to the request. This is a simple but underestimated part of the response. Draft the letter in a language permitted by the instructions in the request. If necessary, add a translation or a short summary in English.
Responding through a representative and teamwork
If you do not speak the language or are far away, a representative may submit the response. It is important to formalise their authority correctly and to ensure that the request does not go unanswered. We do not state exact requirements for representatives, because they depend on your case. Check them in the request or on the Migri pages.
What to do if the required documents are unavailable or there is not enough time
Sometimes documents cannot be obtained within the time allowed. In that case, it is important to act proactively rather than silently miss the deadline. Do not submit doubtful or forged documents. This will create far more serious problems than a short deadline. If you have doubts about the origin or accuracy of a document, first verify it with the authority that issued it, and only then add it to the response.
Typical mistakes when responding to a Migri request
Below are the mistakes that occur most often. Each of them could have been avoided.
- Missing the deadline or sending the response at the last moment
- Responding to only part of the requirements and ignoring the rest
- Submitting documents without an apostille or translation when these are required
- Failing to explain the absence of a document
- Failing to keep proof of submission
- Relying on advice from forums instead of the text of the request
Each mistake may affect the decision. Missing the deadline and submitting an incomplete response are particularly risky. Therefore, before sending, compare your response once more with the text of the request and make sure that no requirement has been omitted and that all attachments are legible.
What happens after the response and how to proceed
After the response is submitted, Migri continues the examination. It may make a decision or request something further if the response proves incomplete.
| Outcome | Your actions |
| Positive decision | Obtain the permit and comply with any further requirements |
| A new request | Respond under the same rules |
| Negative decision | Review the grounds and consider an appeal |
If the decision is negative, carefully review the appeal instructions in the decision itself. The time limits for appeal are stated there, so do not delay contacting the relevant authority.
Why it is difficult to respond to a request on your own
It may seem that it is enough simply to send the documents. However, an error in the form, the deadlines, or the content of the response may change the outcome of the case.
- The request is often written in Finnish or Swedish
- It is difficult to understand exactly what must be provided
- Apostilles and translations from Ukraine are required
- Short deadlines leave no room for mistakes
- Information is scattered across the websites of different authorities
That is why an increasing number of Ukrainians from whom Migri has requested additional documents turn to lawyers even before sending a response.
On your own or with International Law Firm "Zahist": a comparison
The difference between the two approaches is best seen in a comparison.
| Criterion | On your own | With International Law Firm "Zahist" |
| Understanding the request | Difficult to read and explain the requirements | Analysis of the request and preparation of a plan |
| Documents from Ukraine | Difficult to prepare correctly | Apostille, translation, and review |
| Deadlines | Easy to miss | A calendar with date monitoring |
| Response text | Unstructured | A structured response with explanations |
| Appeal | Difficult to prepare | Preparation of arguments and a complaint |
We do not guarantee decisions by public authorities, as the final word remains with them. However, proper preparation significantly reduces the risk of a negative outcome.
How International Law Firm "Zahist" helps respond to a Migri request
We work according to a clear plan so that you always understand what is happening in your case.
- Analysis of the Migri request and identification of the requirements and deadlines
- Preparation of a plan and a list of documents
- Assistance in obtaining documents in Ukraine
- Assistance with apostille and certified translation
- Preparation of a structured response and a cover letter
- Submission of the response and retention of confirmations
- Preparation of an appeal in the event of a negative decision
At every stage, you know what is happening and are not left alone with the bureaucracy. This is especially important when a residence permit depends on the response.
Legal assistance in matters involving Migri
Do not delay your response, as the deadline in the request is limited. The sooner you start, the more options you will have.
Contact the lawyers of International Law Firm "Zahist", and we will help you determine how to respond if Migri has requested additional documents and prepare all the necessary materials.
