Student Residence Permit for Folk High School
Norway
Last updated: December 27, 2025
1 year
$535
6 months
Medium
About this Visa
A folk high school is a special type of school in Norway that teaches practical skills and personal development. It's different from university. The student visa lets you study at one of these schools for one year. You can attend if you're 18 or older. The schools focus on things like art, sports, music, nature, and life skills. Most students are taking a break between high school and university. You get to work part-time while studying. This visa doesn't help you stay in Norway permanently after your studies end.
Key Benefits
- Work part-time up to 20 hours per week during school; full-time during holidays
- Study in English at many schools
- Free healthcare after 12 months
- Schools provide accommodation or help find housing
- Travel within Schengen area
- Bonus points for university entrance after completing year
- No hidden tuition costs - covered by government
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 18 or older (most schools require this)
- Must have acceptance from folk high school on Norway's official list
- No criminal record - any conviction means rejection
- Must prove you'll go home after finishing studies
- Must have at least $12,120 for the year
- Must speak English well enough for chosen courses or willing to learn Norwegian
- Must be in good health
- Must plan to study full-time, not just work
- Cannot have had this visa before
Financial Requirement
Must show at least $12,120 (NOK 122,371) for the full school year. Money can come from savings, student loan, family support, or part-time job in Norway.
Documents
- Valid passportMust be valid for at least 6 months
- Passport photos2 new photos with white background
- Birth certificate and parental permissionIf applicant is under 18; written permission from both parents
- School acceptance letterFrom folk high school confirming acceptance
- School verificationConfirmation school is on Norway's official list
- Bank statementsShowing at least $12,120 available
- Financial documentsStudent loan documents or job contract if needed
- Police certificateFrom home country and any country lived 6+ months in past 10 years
- Health insurancePrivate insurance or European Health Insurance Card if from EU
- Application formCompleted UDI application form
- Application fee proofReceipt of $535 payment
- Motivation letterExplaining why you want to study at folk high school
- CV or resumeDocumenting educational and work background
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.