Norway to Raise Language Requirement for Permanent Residency

Charlie Immigration updates 29 December 2024 | Updated On January 2, 2025 | 0

Norway plans to increase its language proficiency requirement for permanent residency applicants from A1 to A2 in spoken Norwegian, according to the Ministry of Justice and Public Security.

The new rule aims to ensure permanent residents are thoroughly integrated into society.

The Ministry emphasised that applicants should demonstrate a certain level of Norwegian proficiency before gaining permanent residency.

The proposal includes transferring language and civics test requirements from integration regulations to immigration rules. This adjustment aims to streamline the process and clarify the criteria for applicants.

Additionally, non-EU/EEA migrants under temporary protection who transition to residency permits will need to meet the same language requirements.

The Ministry has opened a consultation on the proposal, involving government bodies and stakeholders, with feedback due by February 18, 2025.

Permanent Residency in Norway

Norway is one of the easiest European countries to obtain permanent residency, requiring only three years of continuous residence with a valid residence permit. In contrast, most other European countries require a five-year residency to qualify.

A permanent residence permit in Norway offers significant benefits, including the right to live, work, and study in the country indefinitely. It also provides extra protection against expulsion and is often considered the final step before Norwegian citizenship.

This type of residence permit is available to non-EU citizens and is especially advantageous for those on work permits planning to stay in Norway long-term. Applying as soon as you're eligible is highly recommended.

To qualify for Norway's permanent residence, applicants must meet the following conditions:

Resided in Norway for at least three years with a valid residence permit.
Maintained a valid residence permit throughout the past three years, with no gaps exceeding three months.
Spent no more than seven months outside Norway in the past three years.
For applicants aged 16 to 64, passing exams in Norwegian language and social studies is mandatory.

If you need assistance with your residence permit application, you can contact IaM.

Do you need to renew your passport? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

Check out the deals we have found below and tell us your travel plans.

Check out the offers and discounts from:

And because of the pandemic, don’t forget to get your travel insurance, which will cover you for flight disruptions and pandemic related matters.

IaM can help with your visa application to Europe, the United States, the UK & other countries

If you need help with a US visa, a UK Visa, or a visa to Europe, including help with appointment booking obligations, IaM can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at IaM.

Some of our posts include affiliate links. If you choose to purchase any of these products, we might get a small commission. For more information, check out our TOS.