Family immigration to Norway allows family members of Norwegian or Nordic citizens to join their loved ones in Norway. Eligible applicants include spouses, cohabiting partners, children, and certain other family members. Successful applicants receive the right to live and, in some cases, work in Norway. Family immigration is typically granted for one to three years and can eventually lead to permanent residency.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for family immigration to Norway, both the applicant and the sponsor (Norwegian or Nordic citizen) must meet specific eligibility criteria:
- Relationship Requirement: The applicant must have a family relationship with the Norwegian or Nordic sponsor, such as a spouse, registered partner, cohabitant, or dependent child.
- Age Requirement: Both the applicant and the Norwegian/Nordic citizen must be at least 18 years old for spouse or cohabitation permits.
- Financial Requirement: The Norwegian sponsor must meet the income requirements to financially support the applicant.
- Accommodation Requirement: The sponsor must have suitable housing in Norway to accommodate the applicant.
- Health and Character: Both the applicant and sponsor must meet health and character requirements, including a clean criminal record.
Types of Family Immigration Permits
Several types of family immigration permits are available based on the applicant’s relationship with the Norwegian or Nordic sponsor:
- Spouse or Partner Permit: For those married to or in a registered partnership or cohabitation relationship with a Norwegian or Nordic citizen.
- Child Permit: For children under 18 who wish to join their Norwegian or Nordic parent in Norway.
- Parent Permit: For parents of minor Norwegian children, allowing the parent to live in Norway to care for the child.
- Other Family Members: In certain cases, siblings or other close family members may apply, though approval is less common.
Required Documents
The following documents are generally required for a family immigration application in Norway:
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage or partnership certificates, birth certificates for children, or evidence of cohabitation.
- Identification Documents: Valid passports and ID documents for both the applicant and sponsor.
- Proof of Financial Stability: Tax returns, pay slips, or other documents showing that the sponsor meets income requirements.
- Proof of Housing: Rental contracts or proof of property ownership in Norway showing suitable accommodation.
- Police Clearance Certificate: Criminal record checks from any country where the applicant has lived for over six months.
- Passport Photos: Recent passport-sized photographs for identification purposes.
- Health Insurance (if required): Health insurance documentation may be needed, especially if moving from outside the EU.
Application Process
The process for applying for a family immigration permit in Norway involves several steps:
- Prepare Required Documents: Collect and organize all required documents as per the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) guidelines.
- Submit Online Application: Complete the online application form through the UDI website and pay the application fee.
- Biometrics Appointment: Schedule an appointment to submit biometric data, such as fingerprints and photographs.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Provide the necessary documents to the local embassy or UDI office as required.
- Attend Interview (if required): An interview may be conducted with the applicant and/or sponsor to verify the relationship.
- Receive Permit Decision: UDI will review the application and notify the applicant of the decision.
Fees and Payment
The fees for a family immigration permit application vary depending on the applicant’s nationality and relationship with the sponsor. Typical fees include:
- Application Fee: Approximately NOK 10,500 for adults and NOK 5,300 for children, though fees may vary.
- Biometrics Fee: Additional fees may apply for biometrics collection at certain locations.
- Other Costs: Translation or certification of documents may incur additional fees.
Processing Time
The processing time for a family immigration permit can vary based on factors like the applicant’s country of residence and the complexity of the case. Generally:
- Standard Processing: 4-10 months, depending on the relationship and location.
- Complex Cases: May take longer if further investigation or additional documentation is required.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to accommodate possible delays.
Key Points to Remember
- All documents not in Norwegian or English must be translated by a certified translator.
- Meet the financial and accommodation requirements set by Norwegian immigration authorities.
- Provide thorough evidence to demonstrate a genuine family relationship.
- Processing times vary, so apply as early as possible.
- Biometrics data collection is mandatory, even for applicants applying from abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I work in Norway on a family immigration permit?
- Yes, most family immigration permit holders can work in Norway, but it is advised to confirm eligibility with the UDI.
- How long is the family immigration permit valid?
- The permit is typically valid for one to three years, after which it can be renewed if the family relationship remains valid.
- Can I apply for permanent residency after holding a family immigration permit?
- Yes, after a period of continuous residence, usually three years, permit holders may be eligible for permanent residency.
- Do I need health insurance for family immigration?
- Health insurance is generally required for applicants moving from outside the EU until they qualify for the Norwegian National Health Insurance Scheme.
- What happens if my application is denied?
- If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision or reapply with additional supporting evidence.
Official Website
For the latest and most accurate information, visit the official Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website.