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🇳🇴student Visa

Student Residence Permit for Higher Education

Norway

Last updated: December 27, 2025

Duration

3 years

Visa Fee

$503

Time

4-12 weeks

Complexity

Medium

About this Visa

This is a student visa for people who want to study at a university, college, or vocational school in Norway. It lets you live and study in Norway full-time while completing your degree. The permit lets you work part-time (20 hours per week) while you study. You can also work full-time during school breaks. The permit lasts as long as your studies do—up to 3 years. This visa is different because studying in Norway does not help you get permanent residency later. You study, graduate, and then must apply for a work visa if you want to stay. It is not a pathway to staying in Norway forever.

Key Benefits

  • Work part-time: 20 hours/week while studying + full-time during breaks (automatic)
  • Bring family: Your spouse and children can come with you
  • Free healthcare: After 12 months, you get Norway's free healthcare
  • Travel in Europe: Move freely through 25 European countries (Schengen area)
  • Student discounts: 30-50% off public transportation and university facilities
  • Work anywhere: After graduation, you can get a 6-month job-seeking permit

Eligibility & Requirements

Eligibility Criteria

  • Must be 15+ years old (parental permission required if under 18)
  • Admitted to a full-time program at an approved school
  • Have enough money to support yourself ($1,652/year)
  • Have housing arranged
  • Prove you will leave Norway after you finish studying (this is the hardest part)
  • No serious criminal record
  • Be in good health

Financial Requirement

You need to prove you have $1,652 per year available to live on. This money must be in a Norwegian bank account or guaranteed by a scholarship/government sponsor. You also need to pay for tuition if your school charges it.

Documents

  • Valid passportMust work for your entire stay
  • Passport photos2 passport-sized photos with white background
  • School acceptance letterMust say 30+ credits per semester
  • Study planList of all classes you will take
  • Proof of funds$1,652/year in Norwegian bank account, scholarship letter, or job offer
  • Housing proofApartment lease or university housing confirmation
  • English language testTOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge if studying in English
  • Health insuranceFor non-EU students staying less than 12 months

Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.