Knowledge Base
Work Permit in Norway: Do You Need One?
Last updated: 2026-04-09
EU/EEA citizens
No permit needed
Non-EU application fee
NOK 6,300 (~€550)
Processing time
1–3 months
Who Needs a Work Permit?
| Citizenship | Work permit needed? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Nordic countries (Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Iceland) | No | Full freedom, no registration needed |
| EU/EEA countries | No | Free to work, register within 3 months |
| UK (post-Brexit) | Yes | Need Skilled Worker permit since 2021 |
| USA, Canada, Australia | Yes | Need Skilled Worker permit with job offer |
| Other countries | Yes | Need permit, job offer required |
Types of Work Permits
- Skilled Worker permit — most common, requires relevant qualifications and a job offer
- Seasonal work permit — for temporary work up to 6 months (agriculture, tourism)
- Intra-company transfer — for employees transferred within a multinational company
- Job seeker visa — allows you to stay in Norway for up to 6 months to look for work (limited eligibility)
How to Apply
- Secure a job offer from a Norwegian employer
- Create an account on UDI.no
- Fill out the online application form
- Pay the application fee (NOK 6,300)
- Book and attend an appointment at your nearest Norwegian embassy or VFS Global center
- Submit biometrics and supporting documents
- Wait for processing (1–3 months)
EU/EEA citizens can skip all of this. If you're from Poland, Czech Republic, Latvia, or any other EU country, you can work in Norway immediately with just your passport.
T&A Nordic by JobsPeek Recruitment Team
Expert recruiters specializing in Norway employment placements
Ready to start working in Norway?