Europe – Norway Visa – Who Needs Norway Visa

1. Do I need a visa to travel to Norway?

Yes, most non-EU citizens require a visa to enter Norway. However, citizens of certain countries may be exempt from needing a visa for short stays. You can check the list of countries whose citizens need a visa to enter Norway on the website of the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI).

2. How do I apply for a Norway tourist visa?
To apply for a Norway tourist visa, you should follow these steps:

– Determine which type of visa you need: Depending on your purpose of travel and length of stay, you may need either a Schengen Visa or a National Visa.
– Gather required documents: The UDI website provides a list of required documents that vary depending on your specific circumstances. Generally, you will need a valid passport, proof of travel insurance, proof of sufficient funds, and documentation related to your trip.
– Fill out the application form: You can fill out the application form online or print it out and complete it by hand.
– Schedule an appointment at the nearest Norwegian embassy or consulate: You will need to submit your application in person at the relevant embassy/consulate. You may also be required to give biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at this time.
– Pay the application fee: The fee for a Norway tourist visa is currently €80 (~$90 USD).
– Attend your appointment: Bring all required documents and pay any additional fees as requested by the embassy/consulate.
– Wait for a decision: Processing times vary but can take up to 15 days.

3. How long is my Norway tourist visa valid for?
A Norway tourist visa is usually valid for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period from the date of first entry into the Schengen area.

4. Can I work in Norway with a tourist visa?
No, you cannot work in Norway with a tourist visa. This type of visa only allows you to visit as a tourist and engage in activities such as tourism, visiting family or friends, attending conferences or events, etc. If you wish to work in Norway, you will need to apply for a work visa or permit.

5. Can I extend my Norway tourist visa?
In most cases, it is not possible to extend a Norway tourist visa. You will need to apply for a new visa if you wish to stay longer.

6. Do I have to provide proof of accommodation for my entire stay in Norway?
Yes, you will typically be required to provide proof of accommodation for your entire stay in Norway when applying for a tourist visa. This can include hotel bookings, rental agreements, or an invitation letter from a friend or family member stating that you will be staying with them.

7. Can I use my Schengen Visa issued by another country to enter Norway?
Yes, if you have been issued a Schengen Visa by another country within the Schengen Area (which includes most of Europe), this allows you to enter and travel within other countries in the area, including Norway.

8. What should I do if my Norwegian tourist visa application is denied?
If your Norwegian tourist visa application is denied, you can appeal the decision within three weeks of receiving it. There may also be other options available depending on your specific circumstances.

9. Is there an age limit for obtaining a Norwegian tourist visa?
No, there is no age limit for obtaining a Norwegian tourist visa. All applicants must meet the same requirements regardless of age.

10. Can I travel out of Norway with just my Norwegian tourist visa?
Your Norwegian tourist visa allows you to travel within the Schengen Area during its validity period. However, if your ultimate destination is outside of the Schengen Area, make sure your passport allows entry into that country without requiring an additional visa.

2. How do I apply for a Norway visa?

To apply for a Norway visa, you must follow these steps:

1. Determine your purpose of travel: The type of visa you need to apply for depends on the reason for your visit, such as tourism, business, study, or work.

2. Check if you need a visa: You can check the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration’s website to see if you need a visa to visit Norway based on your nationality.

3. Gather required documents: Depending on the type of visa you are applying for, you will need to submit certain documents such as a valid passport, completed application form, proof of travel insurance, and proof of sufficient funds. It is important to carefully review the specific document requirements for your visa category.

4. Make an appointment: You will need to make an appointment at the Norwegian embassy or consulate in your country to submit your application and provide biometric information (fingerprints and photo). Contact the embassy or consulate directly to schedule an appointment.

5. Prepare for the interview: As part of the application process, you may be required to attend an interview with a consular officer. Be prepared to answer questions about your trip and provide any additional documents that may be requested.

6. Pay the application fee: There is a non-refundable processing fee for most Norwegian visas. The amount varies depending on the type of visa and your nationality. Payment must be made at the time of application submission.

7. Submit your application: On the day of your appointment, bring all required documents and pay the application fee if applicable. Your biometric information will also be collected at this time.

8. Wait for a decision: Visa processing times vary depending on where you are applying from and the type of visa you are seeking. You can track your application status online using the Application Portal service provided by UDI (the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration).

9. Collect your passport: If your visa is approved, you will receive your passport with the visa attached. If it is denied, you will receive a written explanation of the decision.

3. How long does it take to get a Norway visa?
The processing time for a Norway visa varies depending on the type of visa and nationality of the applicant. In general, it can take anywhere from 15 days to several months for a decision to be made on a visa application.

For short-term tourist visas (Schengen visas), processing times typically range from 15-30 days. For long-term visas (over 90 days), it can take several months for a decision to be made.

It is recommended to apply as early as possible before your planned travel date to allow enough time for the application to be processed. You can also check the current processing times at your nearest Norwegian embassy or consulate.

3. What are the types of visas available for Norway?


Visitors to Norway may require a visa depending on their nationality and the duration of their stay. The types of visas available for Norway are:

1. Short-stay visa (Schengen visa): This visa allows visitors to stay in Norway and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is suitable for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

2. Long-stay visa (national visa): This visa allows individuals to stay in Norway for more than 90 days, usually for work, study, or family reunification purposes.

3. Residence permit: This is a document that gives permission to live and work in Norway for an extended period, usually longer than six months.

4. Working holiday visa: Young adults from certain countries can apply for this visa to travel and work in Norway for up to one year.

5. Student visa: This permit allows non-EU/EEA students to study at a Norwegian educational institution for more than three months.

6. Family immigration: These visas are granted to non-EU/EEA family members of Norwegian citizens or residents who wish to join their relatives in Norway.

7. Asylum-seeker’s permit: Individuals who have fled their home country due to persecution or serious danger can apply for this permit at a Norwegian embassy or immigration office.

8. Diplomatic and official visas: These visas are issued to diplomatic and official personnel traveling on official business.

9. Refusal-of-entry ban removal permit: Individuals who have been banned from entering Norway due to previous violations can apply for this permit if circumstances have changed.

It is important to note that the type of visa required depends on the purpose of the visit and duration of stay in Norway. It is recommended that applicants carefully consider their needs before applying for a specific type of visa.

4. Can I apply for a Norway visa online?


Yes, you can apply for a Norway visa online through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration website or through the VFS Global website. You must first check if your country is eligible for e-visa or if you need to schedule an appointment at the embassy/consulate in your home country. The requirements and application process may vary depending on your nationality and purpose of travel, so it is important to carefully review all instructions and guidelines before submitting your application.

5. How long does it take to process a Norway visa?


The processing time for a Norway visa can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your individual circumstances. On average, it usually takes around 15 days for the embassy to process the visa application. However, it is recommended to apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date to allow for any potential delays or additional document requests.

6. Is there an age limit for applying for a Norway visa?


There is no specific age limit for applying for a Norway visa. However, minors under the age of 18 must have their application documents signed by a parent or guardian and may need to provide additional documentation such as a notarized letter of consent from their parents or legal guardians. The decision on whether to grant a visa will depend on the individual circumstances and purpose of travel.

7. Do I need a sponsor or invitation letter for my Norway visa application?


Yes, you may need a sponsor or an invitation letter for your Norway visa application depending on the purpose of your visit.

If you are visiting friends or family in Norway, they can act as your sponsor and provide an invitation letter stating that they will be responsible for any costs during your stay. This letter should also include information about your relationship with the sponsor, duration of stay, and accommodation arrangements.

In case of business travel, your sponsor could be the company or organization you will be working with in Norway. They should provide a sponsorship letter indicating the purpose of your visit, dates of travel, and details of financial responsibility.

If you are visiting Norway for tourism purposes and do not have a specific sponsor, you may still need to provide a sponsorship letter from someone who can guarantee your accommodation expenses while in Norway.

It is important to note that having a sponsor does not guarantee approval of your visa application. You must also meet all other requirements set by the Norwegian embassy or consulate.

8. Can I work or study with a Norwegian tourist visa?


No, the Norwegian tourist visa (also known as a visit visa) does not allow you to work or study in Norway. It is intended for leisure travel and does not have any provisions for employment or education. If you wish to work or study in Norway, you will need to apply for a different type of visa that allows for these activities.

9. What documents do I need to submit with my Norway visa application?

The documents required for a Norway visa application may vary depending on the purpose of your trip, as well as your nationality. However, here are some common documents that may be required:

1. Completed Norway visa application form
2. Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity and two blank pages
3. Two recent passport-sized photos
4. Proof of travel arrangements (flight tickets, hotel reservations)
5. Travel medical insurance
6. Proof of financial means (such as bank statements, credit card statements, or a sponsorship letter)
7. Employment or study-related documents (such as employment contract, leave approval from employer, or school enrollment certificate)
8. Invitation letter from a host in Norway (if applicable)
9. Evidence of ties to your home country (such as property ownership, family ties)
10. Visa processing fee

It is important to check with the Norwegian embassy or consulate in your country for the full list of required documents specific to your situation.

10. Is travel insurance necessary for obtaining a Norway visa?


Yes, travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for obtaining a Norway visa. The insurance must cover the entire duration of your stay in Norway and should include medical expenses, emergency treatment, and repatriation in case of any unforeseen circumstances. It is necessary to provide proof of travel insurance during the visa application process.

11. When should I apply for a Norway visa?


You should apply for a Norway visa as early as possible, preferably at least three months before your intended travel date. This will allow sufficient time for the embassy to process your application and for any potential delays or additional requirements. It is also recommended to avoid applying during peak travel seasons, such as summer or holiday periods, when waiting times for visa appointments may be longer.

12. How much does a Norway visa cost?


The cost of a Norway visa depends on the type of visa you are applying for and your nationality. Currently, the fee for a short-stay Schengen visa (type C) is 80 euros, while the fee for a residence permit (type D) is 60 euros. However, some exemptions or reduced fees may apply for certain categories of applicants. It is best to check with the Norwegian Embassy or Consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information on visa fees.

13. Are there any additional fees for a Norway visa application?


Yes, there may be additional fees for a Norway visa application. Some common additional fees include the visa application fee, biometric appointment fee, courier fee (if applicable), and the fee for any supporting documents that need to be translated or legalized. Check with the Norwegian embassy or consulate in your country for specific fees and payment methods.

14. Can I extend my stay in Norway with my existing Schengen Visa from another country?


Unfortunately, no. Your Schengen Visa is only valid for the specific country or countries that it was issued for. If you wish to extend your stay in Norway, you will need to apply for a new visa specifically for Norway. You can only do this if there are valid reasons for extending your stay, such as unexpected events or significant personal reasons.

It is important to note that overstaying on a Schengen Visa can result in serious consequences, including being banned from entering the Schengen area in the future.

If you plan on staying in Norway longer than your current visa allows, it is best to contact your local embassy or consulate and inquire about obtaining a new visa before your current one expires. They will be able to advise you on the necessary steps and documentation required.

15. What is the validity period of a Norwegian Schengen Visa?


The validity period of a Norwegian Schengen Visa can vary, but it is usually valid for a maximum of 90 days within a 180 day period from the date of first entry into the Schengen area. This means that you can enter and exit the Schengen area multiple times within those 90 days, as long as your total stay does not exceed 90 days in any 180 day period.

16. Do I need to have confirmed travel plans before applying for a Norway visa?


Yes, you will need to have confirmed travel plans before applying for a Norway visa. This includes your flight tickets, accommodation bookings, and itinerary. It is important to provide these documents as proof of your intended travel and stay in Norway.

17. Can non-EU citizens enter other Schengen countries with their Norwegian Schengen Visa?


Yes, a Norwegian Schengen Visa allows non-EU citizens to enter and travel within the other countries that are part of the Schengen Area. This includes all other EU member states (excluding Ireland and the United Kingdom) and non-EU countries such as Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein. However, it is important to note that each country may have its own entry requirements and restrictions for non-EU travelers. It is recommended to check with the specific embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit before traveling.

18.Can US citizens visit Norway without a visa?

Yes, US citizens can visit Norway without a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. They must have a valid passport and may be asked to show proof of sufficient funds for their stay. However, if they plan to work or study in Norway, they will need to obtain the appropriate visa or permit before entering the country.

19.Which countries are exempt from requiring a Norwegian tourist visa?


Citizens of the following countries are exempt from requiring a Norwegian tourist visa:

1. European Union (EU) countries
2. European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland
3. Andorra
4. Argentina
5. Australia
6. Bermuda
7. Bolivia
8. Brazil
9. Brunei Darussalam
10 Canada

11 Chile
12 Costa Rica
13 Croatia
14 El Salvador
15 Guatemala
16 Honduras
17 Hong Kong (SAR)
18 Israel
19 Japan
20 Macau (SAR)
21 Malaysia
22 Mexico

20.What is the procedure if my Norwegian Visa application is denied?


If your Norwegian Visa application is denied, you will receive a letter of explanation from the Norwegian Embassy or Consulate where you applied. The letter will include the reason for the denial and details on how to appeal the decision.

To appeal, you must submit a written complaint within three weeks to the embassy or consulate that rejected your application. Your complaint should detail why you believe the decision was incorrect or unfair and provide any additional information or documents that support your case.

The embassy or consulate will review your appeal and make a final decision. If your appeal is still rejected, you do not have any further options to obtain a visa for Norway.

It is important to note that appealing a visa rejection does not guarantee that it will be approved. If there were significant deficiencies in your application, it may be better to reapply with all necessary documentation rather than trying to appeal the decision.

If your visa is approved on appeal, you will be notified by the embassy or consulate and given instructions on how to obtain your visa.

If you are ultimately unable to obtain a Norwegian Visa, consider consulting with an immigration lawyer for advice and options.