The notification is submitted to the local police for processing and decision by the Directorate of Immigration. In the two first cases, the notification can also be submitted to Finnish diplomatic missions abroad. The police gives more information on the notification procedure. The loss of citizenship is automatic and takes place at the same time as acquisition of the citizenship of a foreign state. Automatic retention and loss of Finnish citizenship at age 22 Finnish citizens born abroad lose their Finnish citizenship at the age of 22 if they have never had a permanent residence and home in Finland have never resided in Finland in circumstances which demonstrate their ties with Finland are also citizens of a foreign state.
Loss of citizenship is automatic.
If, however, the ties with Finland have been retained, retention of citizenship is also automatic. Those at risk of automatic loss of citizenship, may, if they so wish, apply to retain their citizenship before they reach the age of 22. Such release cannot be denied if the applicant lives permanently abroad. The fee is not refunded if the application is withdrawn after it has been taken under consideration. The fees charged by the police and Finnish diplomatic missions abroad are partly different from those charged by the Directorate of Immigration.