visa type country
NO
business visa

Norway Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time

The Norway Business Visa, a category of the short-stay Schengen Visa, is designed for professionals and entrepreneurs intending to visit Norway for commercial purposes. Whether you are attending a corporate conference, meeting with Norwegian partners, or exploring new market opportunities, this visa facilitates legal entry for up to 90 days. As Norway is a member of the Schengen Area, this visa also permits travel across the internal borders of other member states, making it a versatile choice for regional business trips. Navigating the application process involves proving the legitimacy of your business intent through formal documentation from both your employer and the host company in Norway. The Norwegian authorities maintain high standards for documentation, particularly regarding travel insurance and financial self-sufficiency. Applicants should ensure their itinerary matches their business schedule to avoid delays in processing. Note that policies are subject to change; always verify requirements with the official Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) or your local embassy before applying.

Key highlights

  • Valid for stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period
  • Access to all 29 Schengen Area member states
  • Ideal for meetings, conferences, and contract negotiations
  • Standard processing time is usually 15 calendar days
  • Electronic application portal for streamlined submissions
  • Requires a formal invitation from a Norwegian business partner
  • Multiple-entry options available for frequent business travellers

Processing time

15 calendar days

Processing times may extend to 45 days during peak seasons or if additional documentation is required by the embassy.

Estimated cost

~$120-150

  • Schengen Visa Fee (Standard)€80 (~$87)
  • Schengen Visa Fee (Children 6-12)€40 (~$44)
  • External Service Provider FeeVaries by provider

Requirements

  • Applicant must reside outside the EU/EEA and require a visa for entry
  • Purpose of travel must be strictly business-related (non-manual work)
  • Must have a formal invitation letter from a registered Norwegian company
  • Proof of employment or business ownership in the home country
  • Sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay (typically 500 NOK per day)
  • A clean criminal record and no previous Schengen visa overstays
  • Confirmed return travel arrangements to the country of residence
  • Comprehensive travel insurance covering all Schengen countries
  • Passport must be issued within the last 10 years
  • Intent to leave the Schengen Area before the visa expires

Documents you'll need

  • Valid passport with at least two blank pages and 3 months validity beyond stay
  • Completed and signed Schengen Visa application form
  • Two recent passport-sized photographs meeting ICAO standards
  • Official invitation letter from the Norwegian host company
  • Employer letter confirming the purpose and duration of the trip
  • Travel medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or host declaration)
  • Proof of sufficient financial means (e.g., bank statements)
  • Round-trip flight itineraries or flight reservations

How to apply, step by step

  1. 1

    Register and Apply Online

    Register on the official Norwegian Applicant Portal, complete the online form, and pay the visa fee electronically.

  2. 2

    Prepare Document Dossier

    Collect all required documents, ensuring the invitation from Norway is signed and clearly states the purpose of the trip.

  3. 3

    Book an Appointment

    Select a time at the nearest VFS Global centre or Norwegian Embassy to submit your physical application.

  4. 4

    Attend the Interview

    Attend your appointment to submit your passport, documents, and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo).

  5. 5

    Application Processing

    Wait for the consulate to review your application; you can often track the status through the service provider's website.

  6. 6

    Passport Collection

    Once a decision is made, you will be notified to collect your passport or have it delivered via courier.

Tips to avoid refusal

  • Ensure your Norwegian invitation letter includes the company's organization number.
  • Double-check that your insurance policy explicitly mentions 'Schengen' and 'COVID-19' coverage if required.
  • Provide a detailed cover letter explaining the specific nature of your business activities in Norway.
  • Ensure all bank statements are recent (within 3 months) and officially stamped by the bank.
  • Do not book non-refundable flights until the visa is granted; use reservations instead.
  • Confirm that your employer's 'No Objection Certificate' (NOC) is on official company letterhead.
  • Be consistent with the dates on your application form, flight booking, and invitation letter.

Frequently asked questions

Related visa guides

Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.