As an international student in Finland, there are several options to consider for obtaining a work permit and potentially settling in the country. Here are some common paths:

1. Extended Residence Permit for Employment: If you find a job offer in Finland after completing your studies, you can apply for an extended residence permit for employment. Your job offer must be relevant to your field of study and meet certain criteria. The employer must also prove that there are no suitable candidates available from within the EU/EEA or Switzerland for the position.

2. Start-up Entrepreneur: If you have a viable business plan and wish to establish your own company in Finland, you can apply for a start-up entrepreneur residence permit. This option is available for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas and growth potential. Successful applicants receive a residence permit for up to two years to develop their start-up.

3. EU Blue Card: If you have a higher education degree and a job offer in Finland that meets certain criteria (such as minimum salary requirements), you may be eligible for the EU Blue Card. This permit is designed for highly skilled professionals and allows them to work and reside in Finland. It also offers a path to long-term residency and eventual citizenship.

4. Family Reunification: If you have a spouse or partner who is a Finnish citizen or holds a permanent residence permit in Finland, you may be eligible to apply for a residence permit based on family reunification. This option allows you to join your family member in Finland and potentially obtain a work permit.

5. Finnish Citizenship: Obtaining Finnish citizenship generally requires residing in Finland for a certain period, usually several years, and meeting specific criteria, including language proficiency and integration requirements. The exact requirements may vary, so it's advisable to consult the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) for the most up-to-date information.