Finland foreign real estate security restrictions

The Finnish Ministry of Defence has begun blocking several real estate transactions involving non-EU and non-EEA citizens, citing national security concerns. These actions follow a law implemented in the summer of 2026 to scrutinize foreign acquisitions, particularly those involving Russian and Belarusian nationals.

In early October, authorities rejected six deals, including a transaction in Kotka near the Mussalo terminal. Officials noted that the site’s proximity to a critical maritime trade node raised concerns that owners could be compelled under Russian law to threaten Finnish security or supply chains. Other rejected applications were denied because applicants failed to provide necessary information for security assessments.

By late October, the Ministry blocked an attempt by a Russian and Israeli national to purchase the former Savanjärvi military base in Miehikkälä, located less than 20 kilometers from the eastern border. While the applicant claimed the site would be used for personal storage and residence, the Ministry denied the permit after the individual failed to clarify the purpose of the purchase and the financing of the transaction. Additional blocked transactions were reported in Imatra, Viitasaari, and near the Mussalo harbor.