Want to applyGuide for applicants

Here you will find information about what you need to apply, how to apply, and where to submit your documents. You will get tailored information and find the correct application form based on your answers and choices.

Residence cardsDefinition of word or term

A residence card is a credit-card-sized plastic card that proves that you have been granted a residence permit in Norway.

The residence period for permanent residence permitsDefinition of word or term

If you are applying for a permanent residence permit, you must have lived in Norway for three or five years continuously.

Permanent residence permitGuide for applicants

This information is aimed at persons holding a permanent residence permit in Norway.

Losing a residence permitGuide for applicants

This information is aimed at persons holding a temporary or permanent residence permit in Norway.

Permanent residence permitDefinition of word or term

With a permanent residence permit you can live and work in Norway indefinitely. You also have extra protection against expulsion. This used to be called a settlement permit.

Have applied: Permanent residenceGuide for applicants

You have applied for permanent residence and are waiting for a reply.

Temporary residence permitGuide for applicants

This information is for persons holding a temporary residence permit in Norway.

Valid residence permitDefinition of word or term

If you have a valid residence permit, that means that your permit has not expired. Your decision states how long your residence permit is valid.

Temporary residence permitDefinition of word or term

A temporary residence permit is a residence permit that is valid for a limited period, for example one or three years. 

Residence under the Brexit regulationsMessages

02.01.2026

It is approaching five years since the first residence cards were issued to British citizens living in Norway as a result of Brexit. Most will now need to apply for a permanent residence permit or renew their residence cards.

Residence permit on humanitarian groundsDefinition of word or term

If a person is granted a residence permit in Norway because of strong humanitarian considerations or because he or she has a special connection with Norway, this is called a residence permit on humanitarian grounds.

Calculating the residence period in citizenship cases (residence permits)Definition of word or term

Before applying for Norwegian citizenship, please check that your stay in Norway meets the requirements for duration and continuous residence.

Residence permits forming the basis for a permanent residence permitDefinition of word or term

Some types of residence permits 'form the basis for a permanent residence permit'. This means that they are the type of permits that count if you are going to apply for a permanent residence permit.

Losing a permanent residence permitDefinition of word or term

You can lose your permanent residence permit if you stay abroad for too long or if you provide incorrect information in your application.