Norway Student Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- High-quality education at world-renowned public and private universities.
- Permission to work up to 20 hours per week alongside your studies.
- Automatic consideration for a residence permit card upon arrival.
- Opportunity to apply for a post-study work visa after graduation.
- Access to the Norwegian National Health Insurance Scheme (for stays over 1 year).
- Clear pathway for bringing immediate family members.
- Straightforward online application process via the UDI portal.
Processing time
4-8 weeks
Processing times peak between May and August. It is critical to apply as soon as you receive your admission letter.
Estimated cost
~$600 + Living Deposit
- UDI Application Fee (Adults)NOK 5,900 (~$550)
- VFS Global Service FeeVaries by location
- Proof of Funds (Annual Requirement)NOK 137,907 (~$13,000)
Requirements
- Unconditional offer of admission from a recognised Norwegian college or university.
- The studies must be full-time.
- Sufficient funds to cover living expenses (currently approx. NOK 151,690 per year).
- A confirmed place to live in Norway (student housing or private rental).
- Intent to return to your home country after completion of studies.
- Payment of the non-refundable application fee.
- Valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity remaining.
- For some nationalities, a tuberculosis test may be required upon arrival.
Documents you'll need
- A valid international passport with at least two blank pages.
- Completed and signed application cover letter from the VDI portal.
- Two recent passport-sized photos with a white background.
- Official Letter of Admission from an accredited Norwegian educational institution.
- Documentation of housing (rental contract or campus housing confirmation).
- Proof of financial ability (bank statement or deposit in a Norwegian bank account).
- Evidence of paid tuition fees (if applicable).
- Valid health insurance coverage for the duration of stay.
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Receive Admission Letter
Secure an unconditional offer from a Norwegian university. Ensure the institution is accredited by NOKUT.
- 2
Arrange Finances
Transfer the required living expense amount to a Norwegian bank account or the university's designated deposit account.
- 3
Register on UDI Portal
Register your application online through the UDI Application Portal and pay the processing fee of NOK 5,900.
- 4
Book Document Appointment
Schedule an appointment at a VFS Global centre or the nearest Norwegian embassy to submit your physical documents and biometrics.
- 5
Submit Biometrics
Attend your appointment with all original documents and copies. Your fingerprints and photo will be taken at this stage.
- 6
Wait for Decision
Wait for the UDI to process your application. You will receive an email notification once a decision has been reached.
- 7
Travel to Norway and Register
If approved, you will receive an entry visa (if required) to travel to Norway. Within 7 days of arrival, notify the police to receive your residence card.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Always use the university's deposit account for proof of funds if you do not have a Norwegian bank account.
- Ensure your rental agreement clearly states your name and the Norwegian address.
- Apply at least three months before your course start date to account for summer backlogs.
- Double-check that your passport is valid for the entire first year of your stay.
- Provide a clear explanation if there are gaps in your educational history.
- Keep copies of every document you submit for your own records.
Frequently asked questions
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PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.