Residence Permit in Norway
Norway is one of the wealthiest and most developed countries in Europe. It offers a high standard of living, numerous social programs, and attractive opportunities for work, study, and business. If you plan to immigrate to Norway, you must obtain legal status there. For lawful long-term residence and employment, a residence permit is required. To receive it and proceed with your move, you must follow a specific procedure and submit a package of documents. Lawtter Solutions assists clients in obtaining a residence permit in Norway. We ensure the process is conducted quickly and thoroughly compliant with legal requirements.
Obtain a Residence Permit
How to Obtain a Residence Permit Based on a Business Program?
Norway does not have traditional “Golden Visa” programs for foreign investors. However, obtaining a long-term residence permit for business owners or startup founders is possible. This option is suitable for individuals who do not have other grounds for obtaining a residence permit (e.g., family reunification or origin). Norway welcomes people who bring new ideas to the country, offering them opportunities for permanent residence.
Conditions
Conditions for Obtaining a Residence Permit Based on a Business Program
So, how can you obtain a residence permit in Norway by starting a business? To begin with, you must meet the following requirements:
Company registration is carried out through the Brønnøysund Register Centre (Brønnøysundregistrene).
Documents
How long Can a Residence Permit in Norway Be Granted for?
Initially, you will receive a temporary residence permit in Norway for 12 months. Then, it can be extended for up to 5 years. When you apply for an extension, immigration authorities will assess how successful your company is and whether it is actively operating. After 3 years of residence in the country, you can apply for permanent residency, followed by citizenship.
What Documents Are Required for a Residence Permit?
Before obtaining a residence permit in Norway, you need to prepare a set of documents. For investors, this includes:
- An ID and an international passport.
- A photo that meets Norwegian standards.
- Proof of residence.
- Health insurance.
- A police clearance certificate.
- Proof of the legal origin of funds you will use to live and invest in your business.
- Incorporation documents of the company.
- Business plan.
Additional documents may also be required. Norwegian authorities may request them on a case-by-case basis.
Apply
Where to Apply for a Residence Permit?
You must apply through the Utlendingsdirektoratet (UDI) website to obtain a residence permit in Norway. The process consists of four main steps:
- Registration on UDI. Select the appropriate residence permit category and complete the application form.
- Payment of the government fee. The fee is 6,300 NOK (approximately $550) for individual entrepreneurs and 5,570 NOK (roughly $500) for companies registered online.
- Booking an appointment with immigration authorities to submit documents. If applying from Norway, this can be done at the police station. If applying from abroad, documents can be submitted through the embassy.
- Submitting documents. On the scheduled date, you should come to the police station or embassy, submit your documents, and provide biometric data.
A decision on your residence permit is typically made within 4-6 months. However, if visa officers have additional questions regarding your application, the processing time may be extended to 8 months.
Norwegian Citizenship
How to Obtain Norwegian Citizenship?
Immigrants who have obtained a residence permit based on business establishment are eligible for permanent residence after three years. Obtaining permanent residence is a mandatory step toward acquiring Norwegian citizenship. The right to become a Norwegian citizen arises eight years after obtaining permanent residence. The conditions for naturalization are as follows:
- The investor must have resided in Norway at least 8 out of the last 11 years.
- No legal issues or criminal record.
- Norwegian language proficiency at A2 or B1 level, depending on age (exam required).
- Completion of a social studies test or integration courses.
- To obtain Norwegian citizenship, you must apply to the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI). The required documents must be submitted to the police or the embassy if you apply abroad. The standard processing time for the application is one year.
Lawtter Solutions provides legal help in obtaining residence permits, permanent residence, and Norwegian citizenship. Our specialists will assist in preparing the necessary documents, establishing a business, or utilizing another legal basis for obtaining a residence permit. We ensure a fast and legally compliant process, adhering to all Norwegian legal requirements.
+38 093 177 52 70 
+1 484 457 89 11 
+44 745 819 79 87