Some of the essential factors driving individuals to find jobs abroad are excellent healthcare, quality of life, and the job opportunities in Norway. Whether driven by work, family reunification, studies, or other motives, obtaining a residence permit is a necessary step in redirecting your life to Norway legally.
In this guide, we will guide you through the various types of residence permits, eligibility requirements, application procedures, and tips for relocating to Norway successfully.
But Who Needs a Residence Permit in Norway?
You generally need a residence permit if you’ll be in Norway for more than 90 days, unless you’re a national of:
EU/EEA Countries – You are allowed to live and work in Norway without a permit (you will need to register your stay).
Nordic Countries (Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Iceland) – No permit or registration required.
Citizens of non-EU/EEA countries should apply for a residence permit before they come to Norway.
Residence Permits in Norway
a) Work Residence Permit (Skilled Workers & Job Seekers)
Option 1: If you have a job offer before arrival, you can apply for a work permit.
Eligibility Requirements
A legitimate job offer from a Norwegian company.
The work has to be for higher education or vocational training.
The salary must comply with Norwegian salary terms.
How to Apply
Keep getting a job offer from your employer
You can also apply through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) and your employer may apply on your behalf.
Provide your documents at an embassy/police station in Norway.
Processing takes 1-3 months.
Job Seeker Permit: With no job, it’s still possible to extend your stay in Norway with the Job Seeker Visa which gives skilled workers six more months in Norway to find work.
b) Student Residence Permit (For Studies in Norway)
For the study of over three months duration in Norway, you require a Student Residence Permit.
Requirements
Acceptance at a known Norwegian university or college.
Financial means documentation (NOK 137,907 a year).
Valid health insurance.
Post-Study Options
After you graduate, you may apply for a Job Seeker Permit that allows you to remain in Norway whilst searching for work.
c) Family Reunification Residence Permit
Family reunification visa: If you have a spouse, child, or parent who lives in Norway as a resident or citizen, you can apply for a visa to reunite with them.
Who Can Apply
Norwegian citizens or residents spouses/partners
Children joining a parent who is under 18.
Aging parents without any other support.
Main Requirements:
Your relative in Norway must have a minimum income.
Evidence of the relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.).
d) Permanent Residence Permit (If You have Lived in Norway for 3+ Years)
You are eligible to apply for Permanent Residency (Permanent Oppholdstillatelse) in Norway after three years with a residence permit.
Requirements
Have lived legally in Norway for a minimum of 3 years.
No serious criminal record.
Updated as of October 2023.
Permanent Residency Advantages
Residence permits don’t need to be renewed.
More rights (welfare, jobs, education)
Further years later able to apply for Norwegian citizenship
Apply for a Residence Permit in Norway
Step 1: Ensure That You Meet the Eligibility Criteria
Find out which residence permit you qualify for from the UDI’s official website.
Step 2: Assemble Necessary Documentation
Typical documents include:
a. Valid passport
b. Contract of employment / Letter of acceptance from the University (based on your permit)
c. Actual financing (bank statement, sponsorship letter)
d. Health insurance
Step 3: Apply Online
Then apply through the UDI portal or a Norwegian embassy in your country.
Step 4: Visit for an Interview (If Necessary)
A segment of applicants needs to attend the embassy for an interview and biometric data collection.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
Processing times vary:
a. Work Permit – 1 to 3 months
b. Student Permit – 2 to 3 months
c. Family Reunification — 4–6 months
Living Expenses & Settlement in Norway
Make a budget for the expense of living in Norway before relocating.
Approximate Monthly Expenses
Rent: 10,000 — 18,000 NOK (Oslo), 7,000 — 12,000 NOK (smaller cities)
Groceries: NOK 3,500 — 5,000
Transport: NOK 800 – 1,200
Childcare & Schooling: Integrated free, private institutions pay-based
Money-Saving Tips
1. Rent is cheaper outside major cities like Oslo.
2. Take public transport, don’t own a car.
After you have followed the tips above:
- Begin your application well in advance to prevent any holdups.
- Learn basic Norwegian — A great help in job hunt and daily life.
- Search for housing ahead of time to get a good price.
- Get familiar with the Norwegian work culture – It includes equality, teamwork and work-life balance.
Whether you’re relocating to Norway for work, study or family, the process for securing a residence permit is no small feat. 3. You can make your transition to Norway smooth and successful by choosing the right visa pathway, preparing the necessary documents, and understanding the cost of living in Norway.
