Back to home

Student Visa - Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about studying in Norway as a non-EU/EEA citizen.

Difficulty: Medium
Time: 10 min read
Updated: February 2026

Student Visa Guide

Who is this for?

This guide is for non-EU/EEA citizens who want to study in Norway.

Requirements

  • Admission to a Norwegian university or college
  • Proof of funding (sufficient funds to support yourself)
  • Accommodation confirmed
  • Clean criminal record

Processing Times

  • Typical: 2–3 months
  • Maximum: 4 months
  • Application deadline: No later than 1 July for autumn semester
  • Biometrics: Allow 20 working days

How to Apply

  1. Get admission from a Norwegian institution
  2. Apply at udi.no
  3. Pay the application fee
  4. Submit biometrics at your nearest Norwegian embassy

Tuition Fees

  • Most public universities are free for all students (including non-EU/EEA)
  • Private institutions charge tuition fees

Working While Studying

  • You can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester
  • Full time during holidays

After Arrival

  • Register with the police
  • Apply for a D-number at Skatteetaten
  • Get a bank account and BankID
  • Register at your university

Related guides

Education & Qualification Recognition - Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about the Norwegian education system and getting your foreign qualifications recognised.

Read guide

Electricity & Power - Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about electricity, power contracts, and the electricity support scheme in Norway.

Read guide

EU/EEA Citizen - Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about moving to Norway as an EU/EEA citizen.

Read guide