Skilled Worker Residence Permit

If you have completed vocational training or a degree in higher education, you may be able to apply for a residence permit as a skilled worker. The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) decides.

The main requirements

• You have qualifications as a skilled worker: vocational training or higher education.
• The job you are offered requires those qualifications.
• The job is normally full-time.
• Pay and working conditions are not inferior to what is normal in Norway.
• You do not work remotely unless that is part of the job the permit is granted for.

For vocational-level jobs, UDI notes that a permit can be difficult to obtain, particularly in the restaurant, automotive and construction industries.

Good to know

• Your employer may apply on your behalf, or you can apply yourself once the employer has confirmed the offer.
• If the position requires a university or university-college degree, the permit can normally be granted for up to three years at a time.
• If you change jobs but stay in the same type of position, you must notify the police within seven days after you start. A different type of position requires a new permit.
• If you do not yet have your diploma, you can still apply.
• Skilled workers can normally apply for permanent residence after three years, if the other requirements are met. See our guide.

Recognition and authorisation

Some professions require Norwegian authorisation or recognition of your education before you can work. Check this early, because it can take time. The Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills (HK-dir) handles recognition of foreign education.

Official sources

• Skilled workers (UDI)
• Questions and answers about skilled worker permits (UDI)