Back to home

Family Immigration - Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about moving to Norway to be with a family member.

Difficulty: Medium
Time: 12 min read
Updated: February 2026

Family Immigration Guide

Who is this for?

This guide is for people who want to move to Norway to be with a spouse, partner, or family member who is already living there.

Types of Family Immigration

  • Spouse/partner of a Norwegian citizen or permanent resident
  • Cohabiting partner (must have lived together for at least 2 years)
  • Children under 18
  • Parents of children living in Norway

Requirements

  • The person in Norway (reference person) must have sufficient income
  • The reference person must have a stable place to live
  • Both parties must be over 24 years old (for spouse/partner applications)

Income Requirement (Reference Person)

  • Must have had an income of at least 325,400 kr before tax in the last 12 months
  • Calculated from when you submit the application to the police, or when the decision is made – whichever comes first
  • Must be your own income (not benefits, loans, etc.)

Processing Times

  • Typical: Up to 6 months

How to Apply

  1. Apply at udi.no
  2. Pay the application fee
  3. Submit biometrics at your nearest Norwegian embassy
  4. The reference person may need to submit documentation in Norway

After Approval

  • Register with the police within a few weeks of arriving
  • Apply for a D-number or personnummer at Skatteetaten
  • Get a bank account and BankID

Related guides

Norwegian Citizenship - Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about applying for Norwegian citizenship.

Read guide

Daily Life in Norway - Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about everyday life in Norway, from food and shopping to culture and outdoor life.

Read guide

D-number & Personnummer - Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about getting a D-number or personnummer in Norway.

Read guide