Can I apply for protection in Norway now?
Everyone has the right to apply for protection. You must be in Norway or at the Norwegian border to apply for protection.
Due to the war in Ukraine, there is an increase in the number of people applying for protection in Norway because of mandatory military service in Russia. In general, having to serve in the military in your home country, or the risk of facing punishment for evading military service, are not grounds for the granting of protection (or residence on humanitarian grounds) in Norway.
In any case, we always carry out a thorough, individual assessment of each application. Exceptions to the general rule may be granted if:
• an applicant risks facing unusual punishment as a reaction to factors outlined in the Refugee Convention (i.e. race, religion, political opinion).
• an applicant risks facing punishment for refusing to carry out military service that entails taking part in war crimes, crimes against humanity or other serious crimes.
Other applications for protection (asylum) will be processed as normal. You can find information about waiting times on our webpage, Waiting times for those who have applied for protection (asylum).