Permanent Residence Guide
Who is this for?
This guide is for people who have lived in Norway for several years and want to apply for permanent residence.
Requirements
Years of Residence
- Skilled workers, family immigration: 3 years
- Protection (refugees): 5 years
- Must have had continuous residence permits of at least 1 year at a time
Time Outside Norway
- 3-year requirement: Maximum 7 months outside Norway
- 5-year requirement: Maximum 10 months outside Norway
- No single absence longer than 3 months without permission
Language Requirements (from 1 September 2025)
- Before 1 Sept 2025: A1 spoken Norwegian
- After 1 Sept 2025: A2 spoken Norwegian
- Must pass a social studies test
- Exceptions apply for certain groups (elderly, health reasons, etc.)
Income Requirement
- 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.)
- Important change from 1 September 2025: Income must be met when the decision is made (not just at application)
How to Apply
- Apply at udi.no
- Submit biometrics at your nearest police station
- Pay the application fee
Processing Times
- Typical: 6–12 months
Benefits of Permanent Residence
- No need to renew your permit
- More freedom to work and live in Norway
- Step towards citizenship
- Can travel outside Norway for longer periods