Who Needs a Student Residence Permit (Student Visa)?

One of the first steps for prospective international students is determining whether a student residence permit (commonly referred to as a student visa) is required.

• Non-EU/EEA/EFTA nationals planning to study in Norway for more than three months must obtain a student residence permit before arrival.
• EU/EEA/EFTA students do not need a residence permit but are required to register with the local police if their stay extends beyond three months.
• Nordic citizens (from Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Iceland) enjoy free movement rights and do not need a residence permit for studies in Norway.

Eligibility and Admission Requirements for Student Residence Permits

Before applying for a student residence permit in Norway, candidates must ensure they meet both academic and administrative prerequisites:

• Admission to an Approved Program: Students must be admitted to a full-time, approved educational program at a recognized Norwegian institution.
• Higher Education Entrance Qualification: Applicants need to satisfy Norway’s higher education entrance criteria.
• Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in English and/or Norwegian, depending on the program’s language of instruction, is mandatory.
• Authorized Translations of Documents: All submitted academic and identification documents must be translated as necessary.

Step-by-Step Application Process Overview

1. Secure Admission to a Norwegian Institution

The process begins with obtaining a formal admission letter from a recognized Norwegian university or college. This document is a prerequisite for any visa application.

2. Gather Required Documentation

Applicants should prepare the following documents meticulously to avoid delays:

• Valid passport with at least two semesters’ validity
• Official letter of admission to a full-time Norwegian educational program
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses during the stay (typically NOK 128,887 per year)
• Evidence of accommodation arrangements for at least the first month
• Receipt for tuition fee payment (if applicable)
• Completed application fee payment receipt
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• Authorized translations for non-Scandinavian or non-English documents

3. Submit the Application

Application submission can be conducted in several ways:

• Application Location: Most students apply from their home country through the nearest Norwegian embassy or consulate.
• Online Options: Some applications may be submitted online based on nationality and local embassy procedures.
• In-Person Submission: Certain documents or biometric data may require physical presence at the embassy or consulate.

4. Await Processing and Follow-Up

Student visa processing can take up to two months. Early application submission immediately after admission is advisable.

5. Register with Local Authorities Upon Arrival

Within seven days of arrival, students must register at the local police station, where their residence card will typically be delivered by post within ten working days.

Additional Considerations for International Students

Work Permissions

Students holding a Norwegian student residence permit may work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during holidays.

Minors Under 16

Applicants under 16 years old require additional consent and documentation, including guardianship authorization.

Financial Proof Requirements

Non-EU/EEA/EFTA students must provide documentation proving they can financially sustain themselves throughout their studies.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Studying in Norway presents incredible opportunities for international students, but compliance with the student visa process is imperative. At Study in Norway, we are committed to empowering our partners with the knowledge, tools, and support needed to navigate these processes efficiently.

Take the Next Step with Study in Norway

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