How to apply for a right-of-occupancy waiting number
Before you can apply for right-of-occupancy housing, you need a right-of-occupancy waiting number. Applying for the number is a quick and easy process. You can apply for the number electronically or using a paper form. The waiting number is nationwide and can be used to apply for right-of-occupancy housing anywhere in Finland.
Applications for right-of-occupancy waiting numbers are submitted to Varke
Right-of-occupancy waiting numbers can be applied for via the waiting number service of Varke (Centre for State-Subsidised Housing Construction).
You can apply for a waiting number from Varke in two ways
- Sign in to the service via the Suomi.fi identification service e.g. with your online banking credentials
- Fill in the application
- Pay the fee (EUR 9.20)
- Print out the downloadable form in the Varke online service or pick up a form at a service point of the state, municipality or right-of-occupancy organisation.
- Deliver the application and payment receipt for the number application to Varke by post.
- You will receive the waiting number by post when Varke has processed your application.
Once you have gained the waiting number, you can start applying for a right-of-occupancy apartment!
Things you should know about waiting numbers
As of 1 January 2024, a Varke waiting number has been required whenever applying for right-of-occupancy housing. Before this, waiting numbers granted by municipalities were also used.
Waiting number
Valid nationwide
Subject to a fee, EUR 9.20
Valid for two years
The applying person or family, if the family is applying for an apartment together, may only have one valid number at any time
Frequently asked questions about waiting numbers
Can I have more than one valid waiting number?
No. The new Right-of-Occupancy Housing Act states that any individual applicant or applicant family may have only one number valid at any time.
Can I apply for an apartment in any city with a waiting number issued by Varke?
Yes, you can apply for an apartment anywhere in Finland with a waiting number issued by Varke.
How long is the waiting number valid for?
The waiting number is valid for two years.
Is applying for a waiting number subject to a fee?
Yes. Applying for a waiting number from Varke costs EUR 9.20.
I do not have any online banking credentials. How can I apply for a waiting number from Varke?
You can submit a printed form to apply for a waiting number by printing out the form from Varke’s online service and mailing it to Varke along with the payment receipt for the application. If it is not possible for you to print out the form, you can pick it up at any service point of the state, municipality or right-of-occupancy organisation.
Page last updated on: 15.5.2025