Norway
General visa requirements for travelling to Norway. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.
Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.
Student visa (Residence Permit for Studies (Student Visa))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Processing time
- Approximately 2 months; apply at least 3 months before program start
- Fee
- NOK 5400
- Validity
- Duration of study program, typically 1 year renewable
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Required for non-EU/EEA nationals studying full-time in Norway for longer than 90 days. Includes automatic part-time work permission (up to 20 hours/week during term, full-time during holidays). Student must live in Norway at least 6 months per year. Public university tuition is generally free for all students, but semester fees apply. Private institutions charge tuition. After graduation, students may apply for a job-seeker permit to remain in Norway for up to 12 months.
Eligibility
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Nationality
All non-EU/EEA nationals who wish to study in Norway for more than 90 days. EU/EEA nationals do not need a study permit.
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Purpose of visit
Full-time study at an approved Norwegian educational institution: university, university college, vocational school, upper secondary school, folk high school, or research program.
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Financial
Must demonstrate at least NOK 137,907 per year for living expenses. Additional funds needed for tuition at private institutions. Funds must be available before applying.
Minimum funds: NOK 137,907/year
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Age
No specific age limit, but must be admitted to a qualifying educational program.
Documents you need
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Passport
Validity months: 6
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Proof of funds
Minimum amount: NOK 137,907/year
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Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.
Must cover full stay: No
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Admission letter
Must be notarized: No; Must be original: Yes; Must show program dates: Yes
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Visa or Mastercard; Amount: NOK 5,400
How to apply
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Online application
Apply online through UDI's Application Portal Norway (selfservice.udi.no). Create an account, fill out the application form, and upload supporting documents.
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Document gathering
Prepare: admission letter, proof of finances (bank deposit of NOK 137,907), passport copy, housing proof, academic transcripts/diplomas, and any other required documentation.
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Fee payment
Pay the application fee of NOK 5,400 online with Visa or Mastercard as part of the online application.
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Appointment booking
Book an appointment at the nearest Norwegian embassy/consulate or VFS Global center to submit documents and provide biometrics.
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Biometrics
Attend appointment to provide fingerprints and photograph. Bring original passport and printed application receipt.
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Document submission
Submit original documents for verification at the embassy/consulate/VFS center. Some embassies allow document submission online only.
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Processing wait
Processing time is approximately 2 months. Check status online through UDI's portal. Apply at least 3 months before the program starts.
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Visa collection
If approved, receive entry visa (D-visa) to travel to Norway. Upon arrival, collect residence card from the police within 7 days of arriving.