Employee relocation: Norwegian residence permit requirements

If you are planning to hire foreign labor to work in Norway, it is crucial to understand the residence permit requirements. The rules vary depending on whether your employee is from the EU/EEA, Nordic countries, or outside the EU/EEA. This blog provides a comprehensive overview to help employers navigate the process and ensure compliance with immigration laws.

Citizens from Nordic countries

Citizens from Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Finland can work in Norway without a residence permit. However, they must report their move to the National Population Register.

Citizens from EU/EEA countries

Citizens of EU/EEA countries do not need a residence permit to work in Norway. However:

If staying more than 3 months, they must register with the police and obtain a registration certificate. Failure to register can result in fines.

EU/EEA citizens can freely change jobs and may have one or more employers. They can bring family members, who must also register with the police. After 5 years, permanent residence can be obtained.

Registration procedure

1. Complete an online registration through the UDI application portal.
2. Book an appointment at the police station.
3. Bring the following documents:
   1. Valid identity card or passport
   2. Employment contract or certificate
   3. If working through a staffing agency, documentation of at least one specific assignment

The police will issue a registration certificate which does not need renewal. Once received, the employee can obtain a Norwegian identity number and tax deduction card. Registration is free.

Citizens from outside the EU/EEA

Citizens from non-EU/EEA countries generally must have a valid residence permit to work in Norway. Exceptions exist for certain occupations if the stay is less than three months.

Education and competence requirements

• Completed university/college degree (bachelor’s/master’s)
• Completed vocational education from upper secondary school, at least 3 years, with a passed trade certificate

Employment relationship requirements

• Must have a specific job offer from a Norwegian employer.
• Full-time position (100%).
• Position must require skills, and the applicant must have the required competence.
• Salary requirements:
  • Master's degree: at least NOK 599,200/year (before tax)
  • Bachelor's degree: at least NOK 522,600/year (before tax)
• Positions in industries with collective agreements must adhere to the agreement; otherwise, salary must meet local norms.
• If work is via a staffing agency, a work plan and client confirmation are required. The employer must be registered with the Labour Inspection Authority’s staffing register.
• If the profession requires recognition or authorization, this must apply to the foreign employee.

Also read: Key compliance rules for employers relocating employees to Norway

Norwegian residence permit: Your rights and obligations

• A temporary residence permit can be granted for up to three years at a time.
• After three years, it is possible to apply for a permanent residence permit.
• If the work is terminated, it must be reported to the nearest police station within 7 days. It is then possible to stay in Norway for up to six months, to look for a new job.
• If there is a new job offer within six months, and the job description is the same, you do not need to apply for a new residence permit as long as the "old" one is valid. It may only be reported to the police where you live.

Also read: Norwegian visa requirements for foreign employees

Application procedure

• Applications are submitted electronically via the UDI's application portal. A fee of NOK 6300 must be paid,-. An appointment is booked for personal attendance for submission of documentation, either in person or by proxy. It is recommended to book an appointment at one of the service centers (Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Trondheim or Kirkenes).
• Upon attendance, all necessary paperwork must be submitted.
• The UDI will then process the application, and the applicant will be notified when it has been processed/granted.
• The processing time varies from office to office but is usually between 10 days and 2 months.
• Once the permit has been granted, a new appointment must be booked with the police where an ID check is carried out, as well as an application for a tax deduction card.
• Power of Attorney: The employee can authorize the employer to apply on their behalf.

As a general rule, it is not permitted to start work before the permit has been granted, unless an "early start of work" has been granted.

Exemptions for citizens outside the EU/EEA

Certain employees may be exempt from a residence permit if the work is less than 3 months, depending on occupation.

Example: Work on mobile installations on the Norwegian continental shelf (not tied to a fixed platform or production phase) requires written notification to police/border control before entry.

Employing someone already in Norway

Employers must verify that the employee holds a valid Norwegian residence permit. The residence card indicates the type of permit, which may be tied to a specific employer or work title. Employing someone without the correct permit can lead to fines or imprisonment.

Need help with the employee relocation and residence permit application?

For companies relocating staff to Norway, the residence permit rules can be complex. We recommend contacting an experienced global mobility advisor can prove to streamline the process and ensure compliance.