The difference between a family immigration permit and a residence card for family members of EU/EEA nationals


Some applicants who have family in Norway can choose between applying for a family immigration permit or a residence card for family members of EU/EEA nationals.

Provide information about you and your family member in order to check to check whether you must use one of the schemes or if you can choose between the two.

If you have the option to choose between the two schemes, you should check which suits you the best. 

Short overview:  Advantages and disadvantages to the two schemes 

Family immigration 

Residence card 

  • You can apply for permanent right of residence after five years in Norway.
  • No application fee.
  • The reference person does not have to have the same level of income as when you apply for a family immigration permit.
  • If you wish, you can apply for a family immigration permit at a later time.
  • You do not have the rights described in the introduction programme (external website).

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