Norway Work Visa & Work Permit: The Ultimate Guide for Foreigners

Norway, renowned for its robust economy, high living standards, and breathtaking natural beauty, has emerged as a top destination for foreign professionals and workers.

With a thriving job market, modern infrastructure, and fair labour laws, Norway welcomes thousands of international workers every year who seek legal and rewarding employment in Europe.

This complete guide explains everything you need to know about the Norway Work Visa and Work Permit — including eligibility, documents, costs, application process, and the top jobs available for foreign workers.

Why Work in Norway

1. A Robust and Wealthy Economy

Norway has one of the highest GDP per capita in Europe, driven by sectors such as energy, oil and gas, construction, shipping, healthcare, IT, and renewable energy.

Its economy offers excellent job security and strong social welfare systems.

2. High Demand for Skilled and Unskilled Workers

Due to its ageing population and growing industries, Norway actively recruits foreign talent for both technical and non-technical roles, including nurses, construction workers, engineers, and drivers.

3. Legal Pathway to Work in Europe

Although Norway is not part of the EU, it is a member of the European Economic Area (EEA) and the Schengen Zone, offering foreign nationals smooth mobility and strong employment rights.

4. Exceptional Quality of Life

Norway consistently ranks among the world’s best countries in terms of safety, work–life balance, income equality, and environmental quality.

5. Pathway to Permanent Residence

After several years of legal work and residence, foreign nationals can apply for Permanent Residence, followed by eligibility for Norwegian citizenship.

6. Transparent Immigration Process

Norway’s immigration and employment systems are fully digitalised and backed by strict government oversight, ensuring fair and lawful recruitment.

Understanding the Norway Work Permit

A Norway Work Permit authorises non-EU citizens to live and work legally for a specific employer in Norway.

It defines the job type, employer details, and the duration of employment.

Issuing Authority

Work and residence permits are issued by the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI).

Validity

Most work permits are valid for one to three years, depending on the employment contract, and can be extended or converted to a permanent residence permit.

Types of Work Permits in Norway

Permit Type	Purpose	Validity	Ideal For
Skilled Worker Permit	For workers with vocational or higher education	1–3 years	Professionals, engineers, technicians
Seasonal Work Permit	For short-term or seasonal employment	Up to 6 months	Agriculture, tourism, and fisheries
Job Seeker Permit	For a job search after graduation or skilled training	6 months	Graduates or trainees
Self-Employment Permit	For individuals starting their own business in Norway	1 year	Entrepreneurs
Intra-Company Transfer Permit	For transfers within multinational companies	1–3 years	Managers and specialists

Norway Work Visa (Type D Long-Stay Visa)

The Norway Type D Long-Stay Visa permits non-EU nationals to reside and work in Norway for more than 90 days.

It is tied to an approved work permit issued by the UDI.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a Norwegian Work Visa, you must:

• Have a job offer from a registered Norwegian employer.
• Hold a work permit approval from the UDI.
• Possess a valid passport (minimum 12 months).
• Show proof of accommodation in Norway.
• Provide sufficient financial means.
• Hold valid health insurance.
• Present a clean criminal record certificate.

Visa Validity

The visa is typically valid for one year and can be renewed, depending on the work permit and the duration of employment.

Documents Required

From the Employer

• Completed work permit application form.
• Employment contract specifying role, salary, and conditions.
• Proof of company registration in Norway.
• Labour market test documentation (if required).
• Payment receipt for processing fee.

From the Employee

• Valid passport (minimum 12 months validity).
• Two passport-size photographs.
• Educational and experience certificates.
• Health insurance certificate.
• Proof of accommodation.
• Bank statement or financial proof.
• Police clearance certificate.
• Visa application form and fee receipt.

Step-by-Step Process for Norway Work Visa

1. Receive a Job Offer
   Obtain a confirmed job offer from a Norwegian employer authorised to hire foreign nationals.
2. Employer Applies for Work Permit
   Your employer submits the work permit application to the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) or local police.
3. Work Permit Approval
   Once approved, you will receive an offer letter for a residence permit.
4. Apply for Type D Visa
   Submit your visa application at the Norwegian Embassy or VFS Global in your home country.
5. Visa Processing
   The embassy typically processes your visa within 15 to 30 working days.
6. Travel to Norway
   After receiving your visa, travel to Norway and register your stay with the Police Station within 7 days of arrival.
7. Receive Residence Card
   You will receive your residence card, which will enable you to live and work legally in Norway.

Processing Time

Stage	Estimated Duration
Work Permit Application	30–60 working days
Embassy Visa Processing	15–30 working days
Residence Card Issuance	2–3 weeks
Total Duration	60–90 working days

Fees and Costs

Service	Average Fee (NOK / €)	Paid By
Work Permit Application	NOK 6,300 (€550)	Employer or Employee
Type D Visa	€80–€100	Employee
Embassy Service Fee	€20–€25	Employee
Residence Card	NOK 2,100 (€180)	Employee

Additional costs may include insurance, document translation and legalisation, and other expenses.

Top Industries Hiring Foreign Workers in Norway

Industry	Common Roles	Average Monthly Salary (€)	Permit Type
Oil & Gas	Technicians, Engineers	4,000–7,000	Skilled Worker
Construction	Welders, Electricians, Plumbers	2,500–4,000	Skilled Worker
Healthcare	Nurses, Caregivers, Physiotherapists	3,000–5,000	Skilled Worker
IT & Software	Developers, Data Analysts	4,000–6,500	Skilled / ICT
Agriculture & Fisheries	Farmhands, Fish Processors	2,000–3,000	Seasonal
Logistics & Transport	Drivers, Forklift Operators	2,300–3,800	Work Permit
Hospitality	Cooks, Cleaners, Hotel Staff	2,000–3,000	Seasonal

Benefits of Working in Norway

• Legal employment under EEA labour law.
• Excellent wages and working conditions.
• Access to healthcare and social welfare.
• Opportunity for family reunification.
• Pathway to Permanent Residence and citizenship.
• Freedom to travel across Schengen countries.
• Safe, stable, and eco-friendly living environment.
• Transparent and efficient work visa system.

Official Government Resources

• Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI): https://www.udi.no
• Ministry of Labour and Social Inclusion: https://www.regjeringen.no
• Norwegian Tax Administration: https://www.skatteetaten.no
• Work in Norway Portal: https://www.workinnorway.no

Norway Immigration & Work Permit Services | Moving2Europe.eu

Norway is one of Europe’s most prosperous and stable countries, known for its high salaries, strong labour protections, world-leading industries and exceptional quality of life. But Norway’s immigration procedures—skilled worker permits, employer sponsorships, UDI requirements, qualification rules and detailed documentation standards—can be complex without expert assistance.

Moving2Europe.eu provides structured, compliant and end-to-end Norway immigration support for skilled professionals, families and employers hiring globally.

Complete Norway Work Permit & Residence Solutions

We assist with all key Norwegian immigration pathways, including:

• Norway Skilled Worker Residence Permit
• Employer-Sponsored Work Permit
• Seasonal Work Permit
• EU/EEA Worker Registration
• Long-Term Residence Permit
• Self-Employment & Business Residence Options
• Intra-Company Transfer Permits
• Long-Stay D Visa
• Student, trainee & internship residence permits

We support both individual applicants and employers recruiting international talent.

Norway Immigration Services for Individuals

1. Skilled Worker & Employment Residence Support

We support applicants with:

• Skilled Worker Residence Permit processing
• Employer-sponsored permit applications
• Seasonal and project-based work permits
• Qualification recognition guidance
• Long-term residence and renewal pathways

2. Documentation & Embassy/VFS Support

Our services include:

• Personalised document checklists
• File review to meet UDI compliance
• Legalisation, apostilles & certified translations
• Visa/residence application preparation
• Embassy/VFS appointment scheduling
• Interview assistance when required

3. Arrival & Compliance Procedures in Norway

We guide applicants with:

• Entry and border requirements
• Police registration (UDI/UPP)
• Biometrics and residence card collection
• National ID number (D-number/F-number) setup
• Health insurance and tax registration
• Employer compliance procedures

Norway Family & Dependent Visa Services

We assist families relocating to Norway with:

• Spouse and dependent child residence permits
• Family reunification applications
• Long-term residence options for dependents
• School enrolment support and settlement guidance

Your family’s relocation to Norway is handled with care and in full compliance with the law.

Norway Immigration Solutions for Employers & Recruiters

Norway relies heavily on foreign labour across several high-demand sectors, including:

• Oil, gas & energy
• Construction & engineering
• Maritime, logistics & shipping
• Healthcare & nursing
• IT, software & cybersecurity
• Hospitality, hotels & tourism
• Manufacturing & industrial production
• Agriculture & seasonal labour

We assist employers with:

• Selecting the correct Norway permit route
• Documentation and sponsorship guidance
• Skilled Worker & Seasonal permit preparation
• Compliance with UDI and labour regulations
• Large-scale recruitment & mobility programs
• Coordination with HR and legal departments

We ensure foreign workers receive valid Norwegian permits without delays.

Executive Mobility Services for Norway

For senior professionals and corporate leaders, we offer:

• Priority application processing
• Confidential document handling
• Strategic mobility planning
• Fast document preparation
• Direct coordination with corporate HR/legal teams

Digital Norway Immigration Tracking System

Our digital case-management platform offers:

• 24/7 live status tracking
• Secure document upload portal
• Step-by-step milestone progress
• Renewal reminders & compliance alerts
• Immigration updates and guidelines

Perfect for individuals and HR teams.

Why Choose Moving2Europe.eu for Norway Immigration?

• Strong expertise in Norwegian immigration & UDI procedures
• Accurate, compliant and organised application preparation
• Dedicated case managers for each applicant
• Support for individuals, families and employers
• Clear communication through every stage
• Global network across 170+ countries
• In-depth knowledge of Norway’s residency and labour systems
• Technology-driven, transparent and reliable case management

We simplify Norway’s detailed immigration requirements and ensure a secure, compliant pathway to live and work in the country.

Start Your Norway Work Permit Process Today

Whether you’re applying for a job, relocating your family or hiring international employees, Moving2Europe.eu ensures a smooth, compliant and professionally managed Norway immigration experience from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the main types of Norway work permits?

Norway offers the Skilled Worker Permit, Seasonal Work Permit, Vocational Training Permit, Job Seeker Visa, and the EU Blue Card. Each applies to different qualifications and job sectors.

2. What is the Norway Skilled Worker Permit?

A residence permit for workers with formal education or specialised experience who receive a job offer from a Norwegian employer.

3. What documents are required for a Norway work permit?

Passport, job contract, employer details, qualification certificates, CV, financial proof, accommodation details, and police clearance. Some require Norwegian/English translation.

4. How long does the Norway work permit process take?

Processing usually takes 4–12 weeks, depending on the UDI (Norwegian Immigration Directorate) workload and employer status.

5. Do I need a job offer for a Norway work visa?

Yes, a valid job offer with full-time employment is required for nearly all work permit categories.

6. What is the EU Blue Card Norway?

A residence permit for highly qualified professionals with high salaries and recognised education, offering enhanced mobility.

7. Can I apply for a Norwegian work permit from abroad?

Yes, you apply at the Norwegian Embassy or visa centre after your employer submits the required documents in Norway.

8. Can Norwegian employers hire foreign workers?

Yes, employers can hire non-EU workers if the job meets skill, qualification, and salary requirements.

9. What is the minimum salary requirement in Norway?

Salary must meet Norway’s collective agreement standards and varies by occupation and skill level.

10. Can students work in Norway?

Yes, students with valid residence permits can work part-time (20 hours/week) during studies and full-time during holidays.

11. What are the shortage occupations in Norway?

Healthcare, engineering, construction, IT, logistics, energy, fishing, and hospitality have significant labour shortages.

12. Can I bring my family to Norway while working?

Yes, skilled workers can sponsor spouses and children for family immigration permits.

13. Do dependents have the right to work in Norway?

Yes, dependents with family residence permits may work without separate authorisation.

14. What is the Norway Job Seeker Permit?

A temporary permit allowing skilled workers to stay in Norway and look for a job for up to 12 months.

15. Can I change employers after receiving my Norwegian permit?

Yes, but UDI approval is required before starting with a new employer.

16. Do I need Norwegian language skills to work in Norway?

Not always. Many tech, oil, engineering, and hospitality companies accept English, but Norwegian is helpful for long-term settlement.

17. Is health insurance mandatory in Norway?

Yes, you must have valid health insurance until you are enrolled in the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme.

18. What is the Norway Seasonal Work Permit?

A short-term permit for agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and hospitality roles, valid for several months each year.

19. Can seasonal workers apply for long-term residence?

No, seasonal permits do not lead to permanent residence. A full-time skilled job is required.

20. How do I register my address in Norway?

You must register at the local tax office (Skatteetaten) and obtain a tax ID number (D-number or Fødselsnummer).

21. Can I apply for permanent residence in Norway?

Yes, after at least 3 years of continuous legal stay with a stable income and a clean criminal record.

22. Does Norway hire non-EU workers?

Yes, especially in engineering, healthcare, oil/gas, logistics, agriculture, and construction.

23. What are the most in-demand jobs in Norway?

Nurses, welders, electricians, drivers, software developers, chefs, carpenters, and fish processing workers.

24. Is it challenging to get a job in Norway?

Skilled workers have strong opportunities. Unskilled jobs are possible but competitive and seasonal.

25. How long can I stay with a Norway long-stay visa?

Typically, it takes 90 days to enter Norway and complete your residence permit procedures.

26. Can I renew my Norway work permit?

Yes, permits can be renewed if employment continues and renewal documents are submitted on time.

27. What is a Norway Residence Permit Card?

A biometric card showing your right to stay and work in Norway. It must be renewed regularly.

28. Do I need biometrics for Norway?

Yes, fingerprints and photos are collected at the embassy and again in Norway.

29. Can you apply for my employer?

Yes, Norwegian employers can submit the work permit application directly to UDI.

30. Is Norway part of the Schengen Area?

Yes, Norway is a Schengen member, allowing free travel within the Schengen Area.

31. Can I travel across Europe with a Norwegian residence permit?

Yes, you can travel visa-free within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in 180 days.

32. What if my Norway work permit is refused?

Please don't hesitate to appeal or apply again with corrected documents. Refusals often involve salary or qualification issues.

33. Does Norway hire drivers and logistics workers?

Yes, Norway’s growing transport sector frequently hires foreign truck, bus, and delivery drivers.

34. Is Norway a good choice for skilled migrants?

Yes, Norway offers high salaries, excellent social benefits, safety, and long-term residency pathways.

35. Would you happen to know if documents need a Norwegian translation?

Yes, many documents must be translated into Norwegian or English and may require notarisation or legalisation.

36. Can unskilled workers find jobs in Norway?

Yes, mainly in fishing, agriculture, cleaning, hospitality, warehousing, and construction support roles.

37. What is the Norway work permit processing time?

Typically 4–12 weeks, depending on the employer’s status and permit type.

38. Are healthcare workers in demand in Norway?

Yes, nurses, caregivers, and medical technicians are urgently needed in all regions.

39. Do employers provide accommodation in Norway?

Some do, especially in fisheries, agriculture, and remote areas. Others may offer housing allowances.

40. What is the labour market test in Norway?

Some roles require proving no local worker is available; skilled workers may bypass this requirement.

41. Can I work while my Norwegian permit is being processed?

Only under specific conditions. Generally, you must wait for approval unless you have been granted early employment rights.

42. Is there an age limit for Norway work permits?

No official age limit exists, but applicants must meet job and fitness requirements.

43. Can I convert a tourist visa to a work visa in Norway?

No, you must apply from outside Norway unless special rules apply for skilled migrants.

44. Does Norway offer entry-level jobs for foreigners?

Yes, especially in seafood factories, cleaning, hospitality, agriculture, and warehouse sectors.

45. Are biometrics required again after arrival?

Yes, biometrics are collected again during residence card issuance.

46. Does Norway have a digital nomad visa?

No dedicated digital nomad visa, but some remote workers may qualify under business or skilled worker rules.

47. What are the highest-paying sectors in Norway?

Oil and gas, engineering, IT, maritime industry, healthcare, and energy.

48. Does Moving2Europe.eu assist with Norway work permits?

Yes, we help with job placement, employer sponsorship, documentation, embassy filing, and residence permit support.

49. Can working in Norway lead to citizenship?

Yes, after long-term residence, language proficiency, and fulfilment of integration requirements, you may apply for citizenship.

50. How can I start my Norway work visa application?

Send your CV to Moving2Europe.eu, choose your preferred job sector, and we handle employer sponsorship and visa processing.

Professional Assistance with M2S Group Sp. z o.o.

M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Provides complete guidance on obtaining Norwegian Work Visas, Work Permits, and Residence Cards.

Our expert consultants assist with job matching, documentation, employer coordination, and embassy submission, ensuring a fast, legal, and stress-free process.

For trusted advice and verified employment opportunities in Norway, contact M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Today, start your journey toward a successful European career.