Norway faces a shortage of 70,000 skilled workers. This gap creates opportunity for qualified foreigners. The skilled worker visa process is straightforward but demands precision. Understanding the system's logic prevents costly delays.
The Core Requirements
Applicants must meet three non-negotiable conditions. First, you need a concrete job offer from a Norwegian employer. This offer must be for a full-time position. The role must require qualifications equivalent to vocational training or higher education. Second, your salary must meet minimum thresholds. For most professions, this means earning at least NOK 500,000 annually. Some sectors like construction have lower minimums. Third, you must prove your qualifications match the job. A university degree or documented work experience suffices.
The Employer's Role
Your future employer initiates the process. They must advertise the position for at least 28 days. This ad must appear on the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV) website. Companies like Equinor and Telenor use this portal. If no qualified Norwegian or EEA candidate applies, the employer can hire you. They then submit the application through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) portal. Employers pay a NOK 6,300 fee for this service.
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Document Preparation
Gather these documents before applying. Provide a signed employment contract specifying your salary. Include diplomas and transcripts translated by an authorized translator. Use services like Translatorforum for this. Submit proof of housing in Norway. A rental contract or confirmation from your employer works. Prepare for the visa fee of NOK 6,300. Processing typically takes two to four months. Expedited service is not available.
After Approval
You receive a residence permit card upon arrival. Register with the local tax office within one week. This gets you a national identity number. Open a Norwegian bank account with DNB or Nordea. Expect to provide your permit and employment contract. Join the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme automatically. This provides health coverage and pension benefits.
Common Pitfalls
Many applications fail due to salary issues. Ensure your contract meets the minimum requirement exactly. Some employers list lower base pay with bonuses. UDI rejects these offers. Another problem involves qualification mismatches. A software developer role requires specific education or experience. Document this with course descriptions or employer letters. Language requirements rarely apply. Most companies operate in English.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my family?
Yes. Your spouse or cohabitant and children under 18 can apply. They must submit applications simultaneously with yours. Each adult pays a NOK 6,300 fee. Children under 18 pay NOK 3,150. Your salary must support them. UDI calculates specific income requirements per family member.
How long is the visa valid?
The initial permit lasts for three years. You can renew it for another three years. After three consecutive years, you may apply for permanent residence. You must pass a Norwegian language test at A2 level for this. You also need 300 hours of tuition in Norwegian society.
Can I change jobs?
Yes, but you must notify UDI. Submit a new employment contract. The new job must still meet salary and qualification requirements. You cannot start the new position until UDI approves the change. This process usually takes four to six weeks.
What happens if I lose my job?
You have six months to find new employment. Your residence permit remains valid during this period. You must report the job loss to UDI immediately. If you secure a new job within six months, apply for a change. Otherwise, you must leave Norway.
Do I need to speak Norwegian?
No, for the initial skilled worker visa. Many international companies like Cognite and Kahoot! use English as their working language. Learning basic Norwegian helps with daily life. Consider courses at Folkeuniversitetet costing NOK 3,000 per semester.
Can I apply from within Norway?
No, you must apply from your home country. Submit your application at a Norwegian embassy or consulate. Some nationalities can apply online through the UDI portal. Check UDI's website for your country's specific rules.
What about taxes?
Norway has a progressive tax system. Expect to pay between 22% and 38.2% of your income. Use the official tax calculator on Skatteetaten's website. Most deductions apply automatically through your tax card.