Do you need a visa to work in Norway?

Foreign companies and individuals planning to work in Norway must ensure they meet all legal requirements for employment and residency. One of the most frequent questions is whether a visa is needed to work in Norway. Understanding this is a key part of Global Mobility—the broader process of managing cross-border employment and compliance. The term “visa” is sometimes used to refer to either an entry visa or a residence/work permit. Below, we clarify the requirements for both entry visa and residence permit for various groups of workers.

Do EU/EEA workers need a visa to work in Norway?

EEA citizens have the right to work in Norway without the need for an entry visa or a residence/work permit. This means that workers who hold citizenship from an EU or EEA country, can usually start working in Norway without having to apply for additional permits.

Also read: What is a temporary residence permit?

Do citizens from visa-free countries outside the EEA need a visa to work in Norway?

For citizens of visa-free countries outside the EEA, the situation is slightly more nuanced.

Typically, these workers from visa-free countries do not require an entry visa to enter Norway. Nonetheless, there may be specific requirements regarding travel documents—for instance, the passport might need to be biometric.
When it comes to employment, a residence permits, or work permit is usually required before beginning work in Norway. This is because the treaties providing for visa free entry into Norway from a non-EU country do not provide for a right to work in Norway without a residence permit.

Interestingly, there are scenarios where the usual rules might take an unexpected twist—suggesting that, under certain conditions, those from visa-free countries could find themselves in a similar position to EEA citizens. Want to know more? Then please read our post, Can I work in Norway with an EU residence permit?

Do citizens from visa-required countries need a visa to work in Norway?

Citizens from visa-required countries must obtain both an entry visa and a residence / work permit before they can legally work in Norway.

There are some exceptions for short-term employment where the work permit might not be necessary, but an entry visa is still typically required in such cases.

Additionally, citizens from visa-required countries could also be in a situation like that of EEA citizens.

Also read: Is a residence permit necessary when working in Norway?

What should you do before the work assignment begin in Norway?

If you are a foreign citizen planning to work in Norway or an employer considering hiring foreign worker, it is essential to understand the specific rules that apply to the relevant situation. Given the complexity and the potential for exceptions, consulting with a Norwegian immigration lawyer can be extremely beneficial. An expert can help you navigate the documentation requirements, application timelines, and any other legal requirements involved in starting work in Norway.

By ensuring that you have the correct visa or permit in place, you can avoid complications and focus on what truly matters — your work or business operations in Norway.