Norwegian visa | 5 Questions you must ask before getting this visa

A Norwegian visa for students (or a student residence permit) is a document that allows you to pursue higher education opportunities in this country. Norwegian universities have seen a sharp increase in the number of international applications.

Norwegians experience one of the highest standards of living globally. The consistently well-maintained work-life balance, low unemployment, and low crime rate make Norway among the best countries to live and study in. 

Hence, if you are considering pursuing your higher education in Norway, understanding the Norwegian visa requirements and processes can help you better prepare. This blog will help you do just that! Discover 5 things about procuring a Norwegian visa for students! 

1. What are the types of Norwegian visas? 

Receiving a Norwegian visa primarily depends upon your nationality and the purpose of visiting the country. For instance, individuals from the following countries do not need a visa to enter Norway for shorter-duration trips. 

• Mexico 
• Japan
• Australia 
• Canada 
• United States 

Do your research to understand whether your country has a visa exemption agreement with Norway before proceeding with your application. 

Here are different Norwegian visas- 

Schengen visa or tourist visa for Norway 

Only individuals who intend to stay in Norway for less than 90 days receive this visa. You can consider applying for a Norway Schengen visa if you are traveling for interviews or family visits. 

Norway’s work visa 

A work visa is long-term and provided only if you have found permanent employment with a company established in Norway. 

Norway student visa 

The Norwegian visa for students is a long-term visa issued to international students seeking opportunities in Norwegian educational institutions. Norwegian student visas are officially referred to as ‘Norwegian Residence Permit for Studying‘. 

Norway’s family visa 

The family visa is a long-term visa that is issued to members of Norwegian residents and citizens. 

2. What is the application process for a Norwegian visa for students? 

If you have decided to pursue a qualification from universities in Norway, a student visa can help you accomplish your goal. 

Here are the steps to applying for a Norwegian students’ visa-

• Apply to the university of your choice and complete the necessary admission procedures. Most universities may have an international student guide that can help you with the application process for a student visa. 
• Apply for review. You can do this on paper or through the Norwegian immigration website.
• Pay the application fee for the Norwegian visa. This will cost you approximately NOK 5300. 
• As per the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration requirements, you will need to open an account with a Norwegian bank. You will also need to submit proof of finances that can support your stay in the country. 
• Understand that the processing of Norwegian students’ visas takes months. Submitting your application well in advance can help you acquire the document as soon as possible. 

3. What are the requirements for a Norwegian visa for students? 

While applying for your Norwegian student visa, you will also adhere to the following requirements-

• A valid travel document.
• Proof of admission to an approved and full-time educational program in Norway.
• Recent passport-sized photographs with a white background.
• Proof of sufficient funds to support your stay for the entire duration of the program.
• Proof of accommodation (students usually opt for a room in a residence hall, shared apartments, or rented houses) 
• If your Norwegian visa expires, you will need to purchase a return ticket.
• Proof of finances to support an accompanying family, if any.
• Printed and signed UDI (Norwegian Directorate of Immigration) document checklist.

4. What are the document guidelines for Norwegian student visa applications? 

When submitting your documents for a Norwegian student visa, ensure that you adhere to the following guidelines- 

• In addition to colored photocopies, you need to present original documents. 
• The documents can either be in Norwegian or English. If the documents are in neither language, translated copies need to be submitted. The translation should be done by a licensed and certified translator. 
• Some documents may have to be legalized with an Apostille Stamp. These largely include civil documents.

As a student living in Norway, you can expect to spend around NOK 12,352 per month on most expenses. Civil documents will be proof of your finances to support your stay. 

5. Will a Norwegian visa for students allow you to work? 

With a Norwegian student visa, you can do the following- 

• Work part-time to support yourself (maximum of 20 working hours per week).
• Work full-time during official university holidays.

Key Takeaways 

• Norway is a country that is famous all over the world for the quality of its educational infrastructure. 
• A Norwegian student visa can assist international students in pursuing and completing their education in the country. 
• Approval of the application can take months. Students are, therefore, advised submitting their documents keeping this timeframe in mind. 
• Sticking to the documentation guidelines outlined in this blog can help you streamline the application process. 
• It is possible to apply for a student visa from within Norway with an alternate approved residence permit. 

We hope you found this blog informative. Don’t forget to comment below and share your thoughts! You can also get in touch with us if you have any doubts. 

Liked this blog? Read: Norway Scholarship | 5 best scholarships for you to know!

FAQs 

Q1. What is the Norwegian student visa application fee for those under the age of 18? 

Answer – Applicants under the age of 18 can apply for a Norwegian student visa free of charge.

Q2. When is it recommended to renew a Norwegian student visa? 

Answer – Apply for a renewal of your student visa at least 3 months before the permit expires. 

Q3. Is it possible to switch from a Norwegian student visa to a work visa? 

Answer – During your studies, if you find employment in Norway, it is possible to switch to a work visa. 

Q4. Can I apply for a student visa within Norway? 

Answer- Yes, you can apply for a student visa within Norway. This process can be initiated if you are legally staying in the country via another approved residence permit. You can submit your application for a Norwegian visa for students to the local Service Centre for Foreign Workers (SUA) or police station for approval.