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Visa Services
Norway Visa Guide
UDI residence permits, financial guarantees, and registration procedures
Application channel
UDI online portal + biometrics at Norwegian embassy/VFS
Processing time
Student residence permit 6-12 weeks • Schengen visa 15 days
Biometrics
Fingerprints & photo at embassy/VFS; residence card collected in Norway
Permit fees
NOK 3,200 residence permit | EUR 80 Schengen (≈ EUR 272 ≈ 2,450 MAD / EUR 80 ≈ 870 MAD)
Overview
The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) manages residence permits for studies, work, and family reunification. Students from outside the EU/EEA must secure a residence permit before travelling to Norway. Short visits are covered by Schengen visas issued by Norwegian embassies or VFS Global.
Norway Visa Types
Student residence permit
Required for university study, programmes exceeding 90 days, or research stays.
Schengen short-stay
Tourism, business trips, or short courses under 90 days.
Work & skilled worker permits
Includes skilled worker permit, specialist permit, and job-seeker permit.
Family immigration
For spouses, partners, and children joining Norwegian residents or citizens.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must prove purpose of stay, financial self-sufficiency, accommodation, and health insurance coverage.
general
- Valid passport covering entire planned stay with two blank pages.
- No entry ban to Norway or Schengen area.
- Proof of accommodation and comprehensive health insurance.
student
- Unconditional admission letter from Norwegian institution specifying programme length.
- Proof of funds: NOK 126,000 per year (2025 requirement) in bank statements or scholarship proof.
- Health insurance valid in Norway for entire stay.
- Accommodation confirmation (university housing or rental agreement).
work
- Job offer meeting salary thresholds and employment conditions.
- Employer registered in Norway and compliant with labour regulations.
Required Documents Checklist
Core
- Passport copy (all pages with stamps/visas).
- Completed UDI application form or online submission confirmation.
- Two biometric photos (35mm x 45mm, white background).
Financial
- Bank statements (minimum 3 months) showing NOK 126,000 per year.
- Scholarship letter or university deposit confirmation.
- Sponsorship letter with proof of sponsor's income (if applicable).
Purpose
- Students: Admission letter, tuition payment receipt (if applicable), learning agreement (if exchange).
- Workers: Employment contract, employer statement, qualification certificates.
- Family: Proof of relationship and sponsor's residence permit/income.
Supporting
- Health insurance certificate covering entire stay (minimum EUR 30,000 coverage).
- Accommodation confirmation (housing contract, dorm acceptance, or host declaration).
- Criminal record certificate (if required) legalised and translated.
Application Steps
1. Apply online via UDI
Create account on UDI portal, complete application form, upload supporting documents, and pay application fee (NOK 3,200).
2. Book biometrics appointment
Schedule appointment at Norwegian embassy in Rabat or VFS Global centre to provide fingerprints and photo.
3. Await decision
UDI reviews application; processing typically takes 6-12 weeks. Additional documents may be requested via email.
4. Receive permit decision
On approval, collect residence permit sticker or receive notification. Travel to Norway within validity period.
Visa & Permit Fees
Fees are payable online via UDI portal or at embassy/VFS. Some applicants (exchange students, certain scholarship holders) may be fee-exempt.
| Category | Fee | Approx. MAD |
|---|---|---|
| Student residence permit | NOK 3,200 | ≈ EUR 272 ≈ 2,450 MAD |
| Work permit | NOK 6,300 | ≈ EUR 535 ≈ 5,800 MAD |
| Schengen visa | EUR 80 | ≈ 870 MAD |
| Residence card replacement | NOK 1,200 | ≈ EUR 102 ≈ 920 MAD |
Processing Times
Processing starts after biometrics and complete documentation reach UDI. Times vary by nationality and season.
Standard processing
Student permit: 6-12 weeks • Work permit: 8-16 weeks • Schengen: 15 days
Peak season
May-August and November-January
Submit applications early; incomplete dossiers restart the processing clock.
Priority options
No official fast-track; urgent cases considered individually with supporting evidence.
Tracking & Communication
UDI online portal
Check status using your case number and login credentials on UDI website.
Embassy/VFS notifications
Receive email/SMS when decision is ready or passport can be collected.
Checklist
- Save PDF copies of all uploaded documents and payment receipts.
- Respond to UDI email requests within specified timeframe (usually 7-10 days).
- Monitor spam folders for communications from @udi.no or embassy domains.
After Approval
Register with police
Within 7 days of arrival, register at local police station to obtain residence card and Norwegian ID number (fødselsnummer).
Register with population register
Complete registration at municipality office (Folkeregisteret) to access healthcare, banking, and other services.
Enrol in health insurance
Register with Norwegian National Insurance (Folketrygden) after obtaining fødselsnummer.
Renew on time
Apply for permit extension at least 30 days before expiry, showing academic progress and updated financial proof.
Common Issues & Solutions
Insufficient financial proof
Ensure bank statements show consistent balance meeting NOK 126,000 per year requirement; provide notarised translations if statements are not in English/Norwegian.
Delayed biometrics
Book embassy appointment immediately after submitting UDI application; carry printout of booking confirmation.
Missing accommodation proof
Provide university housing confirmation, rental agreement, or host declaration with contact details.
Health insurance rejected
Policies must cover medical, hospitalisation, and repatriation for entire stay; attach English or Norwegian certificates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa if I am visa-exempt?
Visa-exempt nationals must still apply for a residence permit before travelling to Norway for studies or work.
Can I bring my family?
Yes. Spouse/partner and children can apply for family immigration permits linked to your residence permit, providing proof of financial support and accommodation.
Can I travel while permit is processing?
You should remain in your home country until decision is issued. If urgent travel is required, consult the embassy for guidance.
How do I extend my permit?
Submit extension application via UDI portal before expiry with proof of continued studies, updated financial evidence, and academic progress.
What if my application is refused?
You can appeal within three weeks of receiving the decision. Follow instructions in the refusal letter and provide additional evidence addressing UDI's concerns.