Norway offers 13 visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals. This page compares all available routes side by side with current requirements.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Visa Programme | Min. Income | Savings | Processing | Difficulty | Family |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residency (Own Means) | €27,117/mo | — | 60-105d | 3/10 | Yes |
| EU/EEA Registration | — | — | 60-180d | 5/10 | Yes |
| Family Reunion - Child | €34,709/mo | — | 60-105d | 4/10 | Yes |
| Family Reunion - Spouse/Partner | €34,709/mo | — | 60-105d | 4/10 | Yes |
| Intra-Company Transfer | €2,333/mo | — | 30-60d | 5/10 | Yes |
| Job Seeker Permit | — | €13,905 | 30-60d | 5/10 | Yes |
| Permanent Residence Permit | — | — | 60-105d | 5/10 | Yes |
| Seasonal Worker Permit | — | — | 30-60d | 5/10 | Yes |
| Self-Employed/Sole Proprietor Permit | €27,117/mo | — | 30-60d | 6/10 | Yes |
| Skilled Worker Permit | €2,333/mo | — | 30-60d | 5/10 | Yes |
| Au Pair Permit | €498/mo | — | 120-180d | 5.0/10 | No |
| Working Holiday Visa | — | €3,134 | 30-90d | 4.0/10 | No |
| Startup Visa | €2,267/mo | €27,200 | 90-120d | 5.0/10 | Yes |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many visa pathways does Norway offer?
Norway offers 13 distinct visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals, including skilled worker, family, investor, and other categories.
What is the easiest visa to get for Norway?
The easiest pathway depends on your profile. Working holiday visas (if available) have the lowest barriers. For professionals, employer-sponsored visas are the most common route.
How long does it take to get permanent residency in Norway?
The path to permanent residency in Norway typically takes 2-5 years depending on the visa category. Some skilled worker pathways offer faster PR routes.
Can I bring my family to Norway?
Most long-term visa categories in Norway allow family reunification for spouses and dependent children, though specific requirements vary by pathway.
Do I need a job offer to move to Norway?
Not all pathways require a job offer. Norway may offer self-employment, investment, digital nomad, or points-based pathways that don't require employer sponsorship.
Related: Norway Guide · Cost of Living · Salaries · Norway for Software Engineers · Norway for Nurses · Norway for Teachers · All Countries