Norway Spousal Visa for Foreigners: Requirements, Application Process, and Costs

by

Learn about Norway Spousal Visa requirements, eligibility, application process, costs, and processing time for foreigners.

Norway, known for its high standard of living and breathtaking landscapes, offers a spousal visa for foreigners who want to join their partners residing in the country. This visa allows married partners or registered cohabitants to live together legally in Norway. If you are planning to apply for a Norwegian Spousal Visa, this guide will provide you with all the necessary details, including eligibility, requirements, application process, fees, and processing time.

1. What is the Norway Spousal Visa?

A Norway Spousal Visa, also known as a family immigration visa, allows a foreign spouse or registered partner of a Norwegian citizen or a legal resident to live in Norway. This visa is particularly beneficial for individuals who want to reunite with their loved ones and build a life together in Norway.

2. Who is Eligible for a Norway Spousal Visa?

To be eligible for a Norway spousal visa, the applicant must meet the following conditions:

  • Be legally married or in a registered cohabitation with a Norwegian citizen or legal resident.
  • The marriage must be legally recognized in Norway.
  • The sponsoring spouse (the one residing in Norway) must:
    • Be a Norwegian citizen, a permanent resident, or a holder of a residence permit.
    • Have the financial capacity to support the spouse.
    • Not be receiving social welfare benefits.
  • The applicant must have a clean criminal record.
  • The applicant and sponsor must intend to live together in Norway.
  • If applying as a cohabitant, you must have lived together for at least two years in a marriage-like relationship.

3. Required Documents for the Norway Spousal Visa

When applying for a Norwegian spousal visa, you need to submit the following documents:

  • Valid Passport (of the foreign spouse)
  • Marriage Certificate (or proof of cohabitation for at least two years)
  • Proof of Relationship (photos, communication records, joint bank accounts, etc.)
  • Sponsoring Spouse’s Norwegian Passport/Residence Permit
  • Financial Proof (pay slips, tax returns, employment contract of the Norwegian spouse)
  • Accommodation Proof (rental agreement or property documents in Norway)
  • Police Clearance Certificate (to prove a clean criminal record)
  • Health Insurance (for the foreign spouse)

4. Application Process for the Norway Spousal Visa

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for a Norwegian spousal visa:

Step 1: Gather the Required Documents

Make sure you have all the required documents before starting the application process.

Step 2: Apply Online

  • Visit the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website.
  • Complete the Application for Family Immigration.
  • Pay the necessary visa fees.
  • Book an appointment at a Norwegian embassy or consulate in your home country.

Step 3: Attend the Visa Interview

  • Attend your scheduled appointment at the embassy or consulate.
  • Submit your biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
  • Answer questions regarding your relationship and plans in Norway.

Related Post: New Zealand Marriage Visa

Step 4: Wait for Processing

  • The application processing time can take between 3 to 12 months.
  • UDI may request additional documents or conduct further investigations.

Step 5: Receive Your Visa Decision

  • If approved, you will be issued a residence permit and can travel to Norway.
  • If rejected, you will receive reasons for the denial and information on appealing the decision.

5. Norway Spousal Visa Fees & Costs

The cost of a Norwegian spousal visa depends on the application location and processing speed. Here are the estimated fees:

  • Application Fee: NOK 10,500 (~$1,000)
  • Translation & Notarization of Documents: NOK 2,000 – NOK 5,000
  • Travel Costs for Embassy Appointment (varies by location)
  • Health Insurance: NOK 3,000 – NOK 5,000 annually

6. Norway Spousal Visa Processing Time

  • Standard Processing Time: 6-12 months
  • Fast-Track Processing (if applicable): 3-6 months
  • Delays may occur due to incomplete applications, additional document requests, or backlog at UDI.

7. Can You Work with a Norway Spousal Visa?

Yes, once you receive a family immigration residence permit, you are allowed to work and study in Norway without needing a separate work visa.

8. What Happens After Getting the Norway Spousal Visa?

After entering Norway:

  • Register with the Norwegian Tax Administration to obtain a personal number.
  • Apply for a Norwegian residence card.
  • Attend an integration program (if applicable).
  • Start looking for work or educational opportunities.

9. Can the Norway Spousal Visa Lead to Permanent Residency?

Yes! If you live in Norway for three consecutive years with a valid residence permit, you can apply for permanent residency. After seven years, you may be eligible to apply for Norwegian citizenship.

10. Reasons for Visa Rejection & How to Avoid Them

Common reasons for Norway Spousal Visa rejection include:

  • Insufficient financial proof
  • Fake or forged documents
  • Lack of genuine relationship proof
  • Criminal record issues
  • Incomplete application

How to Avoid Rejection?

  • Submit all required documents in the correct format.
  • Provide clear proof of your relationship.
  • Ensure the sponsor meets financial requirements.
  • Avoid any discrepancies in your application.

Final Thoughts

The Norway Spousal Visa is an excellent pathway for spouses and registered partners to reunite and live in Norway. By following the right procedures, gathering all necessary documents, and meeting financial and legal requirements, you can increase your chances of visa approval. If you plan to apply, start early and ensure all documents are in order.

For the latest updates, visit the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website or consult an immigration lawyer.

Leave a Comment