To be admitted to an educational institution in Norway, you have to contact the institutions directly. For information about study opportunities in Norway, see Study & Work in the top menu.
Applying online
Applicants are encouraged to use the Norwegian Application Portal. Applying online will result in shorter processing time, less queues at the embassy, as well as making it easier to re-apply for subsequent visas. By using this option it is also possible to check the status of the application online. Please note that it is also possible for the sponsor/family member in Norway to complete all or part of the online process for the applicant (e.g. log on, registration and payment of the fee).
It will still be possible to hand in paper applications. However, applicants using the Application Portal will be given priority. When the Embassy has received the application and required documentation, the application is sent to the Directorate of Immigration (UDI) in Norway for processing. A fee must be paid on the submission of the application. For current fees, see sidebar.
Processing time
You should apply at least two to three months ahead of commencement of the studies. The embassy will send the application to UDI within one week after having received the application. For more information about processing time, see right hand sidebar.
Documentation requirements
• A copy of your passport
• A completed application form for student residence permit
• A passport photo not older than six months
• A letter of admission from the educational institution containing your name, the study program you have been admitted to and the duration of the study program
• Documentation of financial maintenance (subsistence), for example in the form of documentation of support from the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund, a transcript of your bank balance or a confirmation from an educational institution that the money has been deposited in their account
• Documentation of accommodation
As a rule, it is sufficient that you enclose a copy of the documents with your application, but you must present the original documents to the embassy when you hand in your application.
The content of the permit
• The study permit does not form the basis for a permanent residence permit.
• The study permit entitles the holder to work 20 hours a week.
• Members of your family may be entitled to come to Norway to live with you while you are studying here. See right hand sidebar to read more about family immigration for students on UDI's webpage.
Is the permit renewable?
Your study permit is renewable. In order to be entitled to stay on the same conditions, you must submit your application for renewal at least one month before the permit expires.