visa type country
NO
transit visa

Norway Transit Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time

A Norway Transit Visa is a specific type of authorisation for travellers who must pass through a Norwegian airport or territory while en route to a third country outside the Schengen Area. Depending on your nationality and the nature of your flight connection, you may require an Airport Transit Visa (Type A), which permits you to stay in the international zone of the airport, or a Short-stay Transit Visa (Type C) if you need to pass through border control to change terminals or stay overnight in a hotel. Norway is a member of the Schengen Agreement, meaning its transit rules are aligned with European standards. It is crucial to determine if your layover involves 'self-transfer' or if your luggage is checked through to your final destination, as this often dictates whether you need a visa to exit the international transit lounge. Please note that visa policies are subject to change; always verify current requirements with the official Norwegian embassy or consulate prior to booking travel.

Key highlights

  • Required for certain nationalities transiting through Norwegian airports
  • Covers both Airport Transit (Type A) and Short-stay Transit (Type C)
  • Allows passage through the Schengen zone to a non-Schengen destination
  • Part of the unified Schengen visa system for seamless travel
  • Essential for passengers changing terminals outside the international zone
  • Typically valid for short durations (usually up to 5 days for Type C)
  • Standardised application process via VFS Global or Norwegian embassies

Processing time

15 calendar days

Processing times may increase during peak summer and winter holiday seasons. Always check the specific embassy's current backlog.

Estimated cost

~$130 - $150

  • Schengen Transit Visa Fee (Adults)€90 (approx. $98)
  • Schengen Transit Visa Fee (Children 6-12)€45 (approx. $49)
  • Visa Service Center Processing Fee (VFS Global/Similar)Varies by provider

Requirements

  • The applicant must be en route to a country outside the Schengen Area.
  • Proof of a valid onward flight ticket departing from Norway.
  • Possession of a valid visa for the final destination country, if applicable.
  • The passport must have been issued within the last 10 years.
  • The transit period must be reasonable for the travel itinerary provided.
  • Proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of the transit.
  • No previous record of overstaying in the Schengen Area.
  • The applicant must not be considered a threat to public policy or national security.

Documents you'll need

  • Completed and signed Schengen Visa application form
  • Current passport with at least two blank pages and 3 months validity remaining
  • Two recent passport-compliant photographs
  • Onward flight tickets (confirmed) to a destination outside the Schengen Area
  • Visa for the final destination country (if required)
  • Travel medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage
  • Proof of accommodation or stay arrangements during the transit period

How to apply, step by step

  1. 1

    Determine the visa type

    Identify if you need a Type A (Airport) or Type C (Entry) visa based on your nationality and flight itinerary.

  2. 2

    Register on the Application Portal

    Log into the official Norwegian Application Portal to register your application and pay the fee online.

  3. 3

    Book an appointment

    Schedule an appointment at a VFS Global centre or the designated Norwegian diplomatic mission in your region.

  4. 4

    Prepare your document folder

    Gather all required documents including flight itineraries, travel insurance, and passport photos.

  5. 5

    Attend the visa interview

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

  6. 6

    Track your application

    Use the tracking number provided to monitor the status of your application online.

  7. 7

    Collect your passport

    Once a decision is reached, collect your passport in person or via the arranged courier service.

Tips to avoid refusal

  • Ensure your flight layover does not exceed 24 hours for an Airport Transit Visa.
  • Double-check if your flight requires a terminal change that involves passing through immigration.
  • Submit flight tickets for the entire journey, not just the leg involving Norway.
  • Ensure your travel insurance specifically covers the dates of your transit.
  • Be clear in your application about whether you intend to stay in a hotel or remain in the airport.
  • Include a cover letter if your itinerary is complex (e.g., multiple stops within the Schengen area).

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.