Finnish citizenship is an official legal status that confirms a person’s full affiliation with the Finnish state and grants them all the rights of a citizen of the country and the European Union. A person who has obtained Finnish citizenship can apply for a Finnish passport, live in the country permanently without restrictions, work, study, access social protection, and participate in political life.
In 2026, interest in how to obtain Finnish citizenship continues to grow: the country offers a high standard of living, a stable economy, and a strong social system. However, the process remains quite strict and requires meeting a number of conditions — from the length of residence to language proficiency and financial independence.
In this article, we will examine who is eligible for Finnish citizenship, what grounds exist (naturalization, marriage, descent), how much the process costs, what documents are required, and how long it takes to obtain a Finnish passport. The information is relevant for 2026, taking into account the latest legislative changes, is based on the requirements of the Migri immigration service, and will help you avoid common mistakes.
Benefits of Finnish Citizenship
Finnish citizenship offers a wide range of opportunities and advantages:
- Finnish passport. The passport of a Finnish citizen is among the most “powerful” in the world, providing visa-free or simplified entry to nearly 190 countries. Holders of a Finnish passport can travel freely across Europe and the world, enjoying the privileges of EU citizens.
- Citizen rights. Citizens have the right to participate in national elections and referendums, run for elected office, and work in public sector positions. Finnish nationality also grants the right to consular assistance abroad and protection by Finland.
- Freedom of movement and life in the EU. As a citizen of an EU member state, you can live, study, and work in any EU country without additional permits. A Finnish passport ensures stability of status across all EU countries.
- Social guarantees. Citizens of Finland have full access to all social benefits and programs, healthcare, and education on equal terms with native Finns. You do not need to renew residence permits — you obtain a permanent right to live in the country.
- Citizenship for children. Children of Finnish citizens usually automatically receive citizenship by birth (subject to conditions, see below). This ensures stability for the whole family — your children will be Finnish citizens with full rights.
Thus, by obtaining a Finnish passport, you secure your status along with all the resulting rights and privileges. Let us consider who can apply for Finnish citizenship and under what conditions.
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Who Can Apply for Finnish Citizenship
Finnish citizenship can be obtained by foreigners who meet a number of criteria. The main applicants include:
- Adult immigrants through naturalization. Any adult (18+) who has legally lived in Finland for a sufficient period can apply for Finnish citizenship. Key requirements include a reliably established identity (a valid passport or ID) and meeting all conditions (discussed below). The applicant must be in Finland at the time of submitting the application.
- Children at birth. Children may acquire citizenship either automatically at birth or together with a parent. A newborn automatically receives Finnish citizenship if at least one parent is a Finnish citizen (for example, the mother is Finnish; or the father is a Finnish citizen married to the child’s mother). A child born in Finland to foreign parents will also receive Finnish citizenship if they would otherwise be stateless (i.e., not receive citizenship from either parent). In other cases, foreign children can be included in a parent’s application: if you are applying for citizenship, you may submit an application for your minor child under your care at the same time.
- Persons with Finnish roots (repatriation). If you have Finnish origin — for example, you were born to a Finnish citizen parent outside Finland — there are simplified pathways. An adult whose father or mother holds Finnish citizenship can obtain citizenship through a notification procedure (a simplified process without long-term residence). Similarly, former Finnish citizens can restore their citizenship by application. There is currently no separate “citizenship by ancestry” program for more distant relatives (such as grandparents), but it is possible to obtain a residence permit based on family ties to a Finnish citizen (even if it was a grandparent) and then naturalize after several years. A previous special repatriation program (for Ingrian Finns) ended in 2016, so citizenship by descent is now obtained either automatically at birth or through general procedures.
- Spouses of Finnish citizens. Marriage to a Finnish citizen does not automatically grant citizenship but significantly simplifies the process. A foreign spouse is eligible for accelerated naturalization: the required period of residence is reduced (typically to 5 years instead of 8). All other requirements still apply (language skills, income, good conduct). It is important to note that sham marriages are not tolerated — the immigration authorities verify the authenticity of the relationship.
- Refugees and stateless persons. Finland also provides a path to citizenship for refugees and officially recognized stateless persons. Since 2024, the general residence requirement for them is the same (8 years), although it was previously shorter. However, stateless persons still benefit from a reduced requirement of 5 years of residence. All other conditions — language proficiency, absence of criminal offenses, etc. — apply on general grounds.
Thus, a wide range of immigrants can apply for Finnish citizenship: from students and workers who have lived in the country for a long time to family members of Finns and descendants of Finnish citizens. The key is to meet all requirements and choose the appropriate pathway.

Ways to Obtain Finnish Citizenship
The Finnish Citizenship Act (Kansalaisuuslaki) provides several ways to acquire citizenship, depending on the applicant’s circumstances. Let’s consider the main pathways:
- Naturalization (citizenship through residence) – the most common route. You submit an application after meeting the requirements for residence period, integration, and other criteria. Finland is known for strict naturalization rules: since October 2024, the main required residence period has been increased to 8 years of continuous stay in the country. (Short absences are allowed – no more than 1 year in total during this period, and no more than 90 days in the last year before applying.) If certain criteria are met, this period may be reduced – see the Requirements section below. Naturalization assumes that you have lived in Finland on a residence permit, integrated into society, learned the language, and can demonstrate good conduct. This is the most common method used by immigrants who have lived in the country for a long time.
- By birth or descent – a child automatically becomes a citizen if, at the time of birth, the mother or the father (married to the mother) is a Finnish citizen. A child born out of wedlock to a Finnish father can also obtain citizenship through a notification procedure by confirming paternity. If a child is born in Finland to foreign parents and does not acquire the citizenship of either parent, Finland grants citizenship to prevent statelessness. In addition, adults whose parents are Finnish citizens (but who did not receive citizenship in childhood) can obtain it through a simplified declaration procedure without long-term residence.
- Through marriage (citizenship by marriage) – accelerated naturalization for spouses of Finnish citizens. Marriage to a Finnish citizen allows applying for citizenship with a shorter residence period: usually after 5 years of stay (instead of 8). In some cases, even earlier — for example, if the marriage has lasted a long time and the couple lived together abroad before moving. However, marriage itself does not grant citizenship automatically — you still need to apply and meet all other requirements (including passing a language exam, having no criminal record, and demonstrating stable income). This pathway is essentially a special case of naturalization with reduced residence requirements.
- Through adoptive parents – if a foreign child (under 12 years old) is adopted by a Finnish family, they may automatically receive Finnish citizenship. Children adopted at the age of 12–17 can obtain citizenship through a simplified notification procedure. In both cases, at least one adoptive parent must be a Finnish citizen, and the adoption must be recognized by Finnish authorities.
- Citizenship through investment – many people wonder whether it is possible to obtain Finnish citizenship through investment or simply buy Finnish citizenship in 2026. Currently, there is no direct “golden passport” program in Finland. It is not possible to invest money in the economy and immediately become a citizen. The only indirect path is to first obtain a residence permit (for example, through entrepreneurship or investment), then permanent residency, and only afterward apply for naturalization on general grounds. Be cautious of offers to “buy a Finnish passport” — these are scams. Finnish citizenship can only be obtained by meeting legal requirements, not by payment.
- Special merits – in some countries, citizenship may be granted for outstanding achievements (scientific, athletic, cultural). Finland does not have such provisions in regular practice. Theoretically, in extremely rare exceptional cases, the President of Finland may grant citizenship by special petition, but this almost never happens in practice. Therefore, one should not rely on obtaining a “fast-track” passport for merit — most applicants must go through the standard naturalization process.
Thus, the ways to obtain Finnish citizenship are either automatic (by birth or adoption) or based on various forms of naturalization through residence. For the vast majority of immigrants, the relevant pathway is naturalization after meeting the required residence period and conditions.
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Procedure for Obtaining Finnish Citizenship
If you decide to apply, it is important to understand the process of obtaining citizenship — what steps are involved. Finland has made the process as clear as possible, and many stages can be completed online. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Make sure you meet all requirements. Before submitting documents, realistically assess whether you meet the criteria (see the next section). The Finnish Immigration Service (Maahanmuuttovirasto, known as Migri) strongly recommends applying only when all conditions are fully met. If you apply too early, there is a high risk of refusal, and your application may be placed in a “slow queue” for processing. Check your period of residence (continuity of stay, days spent abroad), language proficiency (whether you have a certificate), any unpaid fines or debts, and whether your income is sufficient. Also ensure that you have a valid passport and all necessary documents.
- Collect the required documents. The standard package includes: a copy of your valid passport or other travel document; a language proficiency certificate (format discussed below); documents confirming income for the past 2 years (salary statements, tax reports, etc.) proving a legal source of funds. If you are requesting any exceptions (for example, a reduced residence period or exemption from the language requirement due to health reasons), prepare supporting certificates and statements. All documents in foreign languages (except Finnish, Swedish, or English) must be translated and possibly legalized. Make sure your documents remain valid during both submission and processing (for example, your passport must not expire).
- Submit your application via Enter Finland. Finland provides a convenient electronic service Enter Finland, for submitting applications online. It is recommended to complete the application online — it is cheaper (the electronic fee is lower than the paper fee) and faster. As of 2026, the application fee is €550 online and €650 on paper. Go to the Enter Finland portal and create an account using electronic identification. Fill out the citizenship application form (format KAN_AIS for adults), upload scanned copies of the required documents, and pay the fee by bank card or online banking. The system will guide you step by step. Important: submit applications for your children at the same time if they are also applying for citizenship — the system allows you to add a child as a co-applicant (children aged 15–17 must provide consent and a signature on a special form; children aged 12–14 need only their signature). After submission, do not forget to click “Submit” and save the payment receipt.
- Complete identity verification. After submitting the electronic application, most applicants must visit a Migri service point in person to verify their identity and present original documents. However, there is a convenient update: if you applied online and logged in using Finnish bank identification (Bank ID), visiting Migri may not be required. The system will inform you whether the visit is necessary. If a visit is required (for example, if you do not yet have a Finnish Bank ID or submitted a paper application), you must book an appointment at a Migri service center. Bring all original documents and your passport. An officer will verify your identity, collect biometric data, and your application will then proceed for processing. Applicants abroad (for example, former Finns applying from another country) must complete identification through Finnish consulates within 3 months after submitting the online application.
- Wait for a decision. Once all documents are submitted and identity is confirmed, the waiting period begins. Your application enters the processing queue only after identity verification (or immediately upon submission if verified electronically). The immigration service will review all requirements: request data from the police on criminal records, check tax information, and may ask you for additional information if needed. Monitor your Enter Finland account: updates will appear there, and you may also receive email or SMS notifications. Processing times vary significantly — from several months to a year or more — due to a high volume of applications. At the beginning of 2026, around 22,900 citizenship applications were in the queue, and cases are not always processed strictly in order. If your case is straightforward and all requirements are met, a decision may be made relatively quickly (including automated processing). Otherwise, you will need to be patient. Important: do not try to “speed up” the process without a valid reason — the immigration service does not provide exact timelines or prioritize individual cases without justification.
- Receive the decision and apply for a passport. The decision is issued in writing. If approved, you become a citizen on the date of the decision. No oath is required — notification is sufficient. You will receive a citizenship certificate (which can be downloaded electronically). After that, you can apply for a Finnish passport through the police or migration authorities — this is a technical step, as you are already a citizen. The passport is issued quickly (usually within 1–2 weeks). If your application is rejected, the decision will state the reason. You may appeal to an administrative court or, after addressing the issue, submit a new application later. For example, if you were refused due to insufficient residence time or language level, you can meet those requirements and apply again.
By following these steps, you can complete the process of obtaining Finnish citizenship — from preparing documents to receiving your passport. Next, we will examine the key requirements in more detail and the nuances of each.

Requirements for Obtaining Finnish Citizenship
Finland sets specific requirements (conditions) that must be met in order to obtain citizenship. Let’s outline the main criteria:
- Age and legal capacity. The applicant for naturalization must be at least 18 years old. Minor children are included in their parents’ applications, but cannot apply independently before the age of 18. Your identity must also be reliably verified with documents — a valid passport or other ID is required. If you have previously provided identity information to the immigration authorities, it must match.
- Permanent residence in Finland. You must reside in Finland for a minimum required period. Since October 2024, the standard requirement is 8 years of continuous residence immediately before applying. Previously it was 5 years, but the law has been tightened. However, there are reduced periods in certain cases: – 5 years of continuous residence if you are: a) the spouse of a Finnish citizen; b) stateless; c) already meet the language requirement at the time of application (i.e., you demonstrate sufficient Finnish or Swedish skills). In practice, for most applicants who pass the language test, the requirement remains 5 years, while 8 years apply to those exempt from the language requirement. 2 years of residence if you are a citizen of another Nordic country (Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Iceland) or married to a Finnish diplomat and have lived abroad with them. For children aged 15–17 applying with a parent, 5 years of residence is sufficient.
- Continuity of residence. Residence is considered continuous if you have not been outside Finland for more than 1 year in total during the required period, and no more than 90 consecutive days in the last year. Short trips (vacations, business trips) are allowed, but long absences may not be counted.
- Legal residence status. All years must be spent legally — with a valid residence permit or the right of residence (for EU citizens). Illegal stay or time spent waiting for a decision without valid status does not count.
- Language proficiency (citizenship test). You must demonstrate at least an intermediate level of Finnish or Swedish (Finland’s official languages), corresponding to level B1. This is usually confirmed by passing the YKI (Yleinen kielitutkinto) exam at level 3 or higher in both written and oral components. The “citizenship test” currently refers to this language test — there is no separate exam on history or society yet. Other documents may also be accepted, such as a diploma or certificate of education completed in Finnish or Swedish, or proof of completing integration courses. Knowledge of Finnish sign language is also accepted. Exemptions are granted only in specific cases (for example, applicants over 65, medical conditions, or lack of literacy) and must be documented. Language proficiency remains a key requirement for integration.
- Good character (no serious offenses). You must not have serious legal issues. Criminal records and violations are checked. Minor fines (for example, traffic violations) are usually not a problem, but more serious offenses can delay citizenship. Finland applies a “waiting period” after offenses — depending on severity, you may need to wait 1 to 8 years after the penalty before becoming eligible. Ongoing criminal cases or restraining orders will prevent approval. You must demonstrate lawful behavior and integration into Finnish society. Authorities also assess national security risks. It is essential to be honest in your application — hiding violations can lead to refusal or even revocation of citizenship later.
- Fulfillment of obligations (taxes and debts). You must demonstrate financial and civic responsibility. Authorities check tax payments and the absence of debts (fines, bills, alimony). If you owe money to the state or have avoided taxes, you must resolve these issues before applying. Any fraud related to benefits may also negatively affect the decision. Finland expects applicants to be responsible and law-abiding residents.
- Means of livelihood (income). Since December 2025, there is an official requirement for financial self-sufficiency. You must prove that you can support yourself and have not relied heavily on social benefits. Specifically, you must not have received unemployment or social assistance for more than 3 months in total over the past 2 years. A short period on benefits is acceptable, but long-term dependence is not. You must provide proof of income for the past 2 years (salary, employment contracts, business income, pensions, scholarships, etc.). Exceptions exist (for example, parental leave or applicants over 65). The requirement must be met up until the final decision.
- Knowledge of society (new requirement). As of 2026, there is no separate exam on history or civic knowledge beyond the language test. However, applicants are expected to be integrated and understand basic principles of life in Finland. The government plans to introduce a civic test around 2027, likely covering rights, responsibilities, laws, and Finnish society. While not yet mandatory, applicants should be aware of upcoming changes. Practice online tests are already available to help prepare.
These are the main requirements of Finnish citizenship law. In summary, an applicant must live in Finland long enough and legally, learn the language, follow the law, be financially independent, and be well integrated into society. Each requirement is carefully verified through documents and official records. Only after meeting all conditions does it make sense to apply — otherwise, refusal is highly likely.
Timeframes and Costs
How long it takes to obtain citizenship and how much the process costs are natural questions for applicants. Let’s examine two aspects: timelines (duration of processes) and costs.
Minimum residence period – as mentioned earlier, the standard requirement is currently 8 years (with possible reductions to 5 or 2 years in special cases). This is the waiting period before you can apply. For example, if you moved to Finland in 2018 for work, you would typically become eligible to apply around 2026 (provided you meet other requirements such as language proficiency). For spouses of Finnish citizens, 5 years of residence is usually sufficient. Note that if you spent long periods outside Finland, your residence time may be “paused.” Migri advisors or online calculators can help you determine your exact eligibility period.
Application processing time – once you apply, the waiting period begins. The immigration service does not guarantee exact processing times but provides average estimates. Due to a high volume of applications in 2024–2025, processing times have increased. Many applicants wait approximately 9 to 12 months, while more complex cases may take 18–24 months. For example, some applicants who applied in 2024 received decisions only by early 2026 (around 1.5 years). Migri acknowledges a backlog: at the beginning of 2026, nearly 23,000 applications were in the queue. Additional resources have been allocated, and 2025 saw a record number of citizenship approvals. However, the actual waiting time depends on your case. Straightforward applications may be processed in 3–6 months, while cases requiring additional checks (e.g., security or document verification) may take longer. There is no fixed maximum processing time by law (except in certain cases, such as refugees, which are often processed within a year). In any case, be prepared to wait at least several months. During this time, ensure your passport remains valid and that you continue to meet all requirements. You can track your application status online and contact Migri if there are significant delays.
Cost of obtaining citizenship – the main expenses are the application fee and document preparation. As of 2026, the application fee is €550 for online submission or €650 for paper submission. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. Additional costs may include:
- Language exam (YKI) – approximately €120–140 per attempt. Preparation courses, if needed, cost extra.
- Translations and legalization of documents – if your documents are not in Finnish, Swedish, or English, translation costs vary depending on volume (for example, translating a birth certificate may cost around €30–50). Notarization and apostille, if required, also involve additional expenses.
- Passport photo and issuance – after obtaining citizenship, you will need a photo and pay for the biometric passport (around €50–60).
- Notary services and postage – minor costs, especially if applying on paper or from abroad.
- Consultation services – the process can be completed independently, but if you hire a lawyer or agency for assistance, their fees can vary widely (sometimes several hundred euros). Many applicants manage without intermediaries by using free resources such as Migri and Suomi.fi.
Overall, the cost of Finnish citizenship is determined not only by direct payments (which are relatively modest) but also by the time and effort involved. Learning the language and living in the country for the required years are also part of the “cost.” However, the direct financial expense is relatively low compared to some other countries. The key is to prepare your documents carefully to avoid unnecessary costs due to rejection.
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Can You Have Dual Citizenship?
Many applicants wonder whether they need to give up their original passport when obtaining a Finnish one. Finnish law has allowed dual citizenship since 2003, and this remains valid in 2026. This means that second (and even multiple) citizenships are officially permitted. You can keep your original passport and at the same time become a citizen of Finland.
However, an important nuance: not all countries recognize dual citizenship. Before applying for a Finnish passport, check the laws of your home country — some states automatically revoke citizenship when a new one is obtained. Finland itself does not require you to renounce your previous citizenship and does not notify other countries about your naturalization — this is your responsibility.
Pros of dual citizenship: you can enjoy rights in two countries, live and work freely in both, and hold two passports for travel (which can be useful if visa rules differ). For example, with a Finnish and another passport, you may enter different countries under more favorable conditions.
Cons: there may be dua obligations, such as military service. Finnish men of conscription age are required to complete military or alternative service, even if they hold another citizenship. Other countries may also impose obligations. There can also be practical questions — for example, which country’s consulate to contact in a third country.
Overall, dual citizenship is legal and common in Finland. Many naturalized citizens keep their original nationality. Authorities are generally neutral about this. You should simply understand the consequences under your home country’s laws. If desired, you can renounce your original citizenship after obtaining a Finnish passport.
It is also worth noting that children may hold dual citizenship: a child who receives a Finnish passport can retain their parents’ citizenship if permitted by that country.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Obtaining Finnish citizenship is the final stage of integration, requiring patience and preparation but offering significant benefits. In this article, we have covered all the key steps and nuances — from the Finnish Citizenship Act to practical advice. To summarize, here are our recommendations for those planning to obtain Finnish citizenship:
- Prepare in advance. Start studying the requirements several years before applying. Pay special attention to language skills: enroll in Finnish or Swedish courses, take online citizenship tests or practice exams to assess your level. The sooner you obtain a language certificate, the sooner you will be able to apply.
- Follow legislative changes. In 2024–2025, the rules became stricter (the residence requirement increased to 8 years, and an income criterion was introduced). New reforms are planned — such as a civic knowledge test and possibly higher language requirements. Up-to-date information is published on Migri.fi and Suomi.fi, including in English and Finnish. Always check current requirements on official websites before applying.
- Apply only when you fully meet the requirements. Do not rush to submit an application “just in case.” If you are a few months short of the required residence period, wait. If your language level is insufficient, take the exam first. The Finnish Immigration Service clearly warns that applications submitted without meeting the criteria will be rejected, costing you time and money. Such cases may also be placed in a “slow queue,” delaying the decision further. The best strategy is to meet all requirements first and then apply.
- Use electronic services. Registration through Enter Finland significantly simplifies the process. Online applications are cheaper and allow you to track your status, receive notifications, and even avoid visiting the immigration office if you have electronic identification. Finland actively promotes digitalization, and by 2026 almost everything can be done remotely. If anything is unclear, Enter Finland provides FAQs, and Migri responds to written inquiries.
- Be honest and accurate in your application. Provide all necessary information and submit documents carefully. Any inaccuracies or attempts to hide information (for example, a past conviction or previous name) can lead to refusal or even revocation of citizenship later. Finnish authorities thoroughly verify all data through official records. Providing accurate information from the start builds trust and speeds up the process.
- Be prepared to wait — and use the time wisely. After applying, you will need to wait for the decision. During this period, you will likely already have permanent residence, so you can continue your life in Finland. Use this time to integrate further: improve your language skills, learn about Finnish culture and society, and prepare documents for your passport so you can apply immediately after approval.
- Seek help if needed. If the process seems complicated, consult reliable sources. There are many resources available: free guidance on Migri.fi, Q&A sections on Suomi.fi, and experiences shared by other immigrants. You can also consult an immigration lawyer, especially in complex cases. Some companies offer assistance with obtaining Finnish citizenship, but choose carefully and rely on trusted providers. In most cases, applicants successfully complete the process independently by following official instructions.
Finally, Finland values those who are truly integrated — who have learned the language, work, and follow the law. These are the people the country entrusts with its passport. If you feel that Finland is your home and you meet the requirements, do not hesitate to apply. It will open a new chapter in your life: you will become a full member of Finnish society while preserving your unique cultural identity.
👉 If you want to speed up the process and avoid mistakes, it makes sense to seek professional consultation and choose the most suitable pathway to citizenship. Specialists can help assess your chances, select the best option (naturalization, marriage, descent), and prepare your documents correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions about Finnish citizenship
We have compiled answers to the most common questions about obtaining Finnish citizenship. If you did not find the information you were looking for or want to learn more about the requirements, timelines, and benefits of Finnish passport, contact us for a free consultation.
No, marriage alone does not grant Finnish citizenship. A foreign spouse must go through the naturalization process, although with a reduced residence requirement. Typically, you need to live in Finland for 5 years in marriage with a citizen and meet other conditions (language skills, sufficient income, no legal violations). The marriage must also be genuine, as Migri may verify cohabitation.
Yes, if one of your parents is a Finnish citizen, you can obtain citizenship through a notification procedure without long-term residence. If your Finnish roots are only through grandparents, there is no direct path to citizenship, but you can obtain a residence permit and later apply through naturalization.
No. Finland allows dual citizenship, so you can keep both passports. However, you should check your home country’s laws, as it may not recognize dual citizenship.
No, not automatically — only if at least one parent is a Finnish citizen. If both parents are foreigners, the child usually receives their citizenship. An exception applies if the child would otherwise be stateless — in that case, Finland grants citizenship.
First, carefully review the reason for the refusal — most often it is due to insufficient residence time, low language proficiency, income issues, or legal violations. Then you have two options: appeal the decision by filing a case in the administrative court (Hallinto-oikeus) within 30 days, or reapply after correcting the issue (for example, passing the language exam or waiting for the required period). A refusal is not final — you can apply again once the issues are resolved.
As of 2026, there is no mandatory civic knowledge test yet, but it is planned. It is expected to include questions about laws, rights, responsibilities, and life in Finland, and will likely be taken alongside the language test.
The main cost is the application fee: about €550 for online submission. Additional expenses may include the language exam, document translations, and passport issuance.